FORM, FUNCTION, AND MEANING IN PASOLA SPEECH, SOUTHWEST SUMBA REGENCY, EAST NUSA TENGGARA

Abstract

Abstract: This study aims to describe the form, function, and meaning of speech in the Pasola ceremony in Southwest Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. This study is based on literary sosilogical theory that understand social society from the way of life, culture, and religiosity of people in Southwest Sumba by understanding the form, function, and meaning of Pasola culture. The research design was qualitative descriptive with Pasola speech data. Data were obtained by interviewing traditional elders in Kodi District, Southwest Sumba and observations. With the theory of literature sociology, Pasola speech data is analyzed and research findings show that the form of Pasola ritual speech is in the form of a dialogue of native speakers towards the natural ruler in Tanah Sumba. The function of the Pasola utterance is to convey the wishes of the people represented by Pasola speakers to obtain harvest and safety in the following year. The meaning of Pasola speech is a reflection of obedience, humility, respect, and peace with the owner of Sumba's nature.