This study aims to explore the intersection of traditional beliefs, cultural practices, and social life as manifested in the Penti ritual of the Manggarai Indigenous community. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, focusing on various aspects of the ritual and its social significance. The data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes and sub-themes related to sacred and profane values, spirituality and social practices, and the integration of traditional customs with formal religion. The findings reveal that Penti functions as a fusion of spiritual, cultural, and social dimensions, where traditional beliefs coexist with Catholicism, and where social solidarity and gender roles evolve within the ritual context. The study suggests that Penti reflects a dynamic combination of spiritual beliefs and social practices, maintaining its relevance amidst modern influences. This research contributes to the understanding of how Indigenous rituals adapt and preserve cultural identity while navigating religious syncretism and social change, offering valuable insights for further studies on ritual practices in multicultural societies.
Erna Mena Niman (Fri,) studied this question.