Hidden within the cultural richness of Banyuwangi, lies a unique and sacred dance known as Tari Seblang. Deeply rooted in the Osing community's ancestral traditions, Seblang dance is more than just a dance, it's a spiritual ritual believed to cleanse the village and maintain harmony between the physical and supernatural worlds.
Hidden within the cultural richness of Banyuwangi, lies a unique and sacred dance known as Tari Seblang.
The Origin of Seblang Dance
Seblang Dance is a mystical and sacred traditional dance from the Osing tribe in Banyuwangi, East Java. Deeply rooted in ancient Javanese beliefs, the dance is performed as part of a ritual to cleanse the village from misfortune and to bring harmony to the community.
Selection of the Seblang Dancer
The dancer of Seblang is not chosen randomly, it is a sacred and spiritual process. The role is traditionally given to a young girl from the Osing community, and one essential requirement is that she must still be a virgin. The selection is conducted by a spiritual figure known as the Gambuh or pawang, who uses supernatural means such as dreams or visions to determine the most suitable candidate. This process reinforces the purity and spiritual connection believed to be necessary for the ritual to be effective.
Meaning Behind Seblang Dance
Seblang is not only performed for entertainment but as a spiritual offering. The dance represents a purification ritual and a prayer for safety, prosperity, and balance in the village. It symbolizes harmony between the physical world and the unseen, aiming to please spirits and ancestors so they continue to protect the community. The movements are slow and meditative, adding to its sacred atmosphere.
The Performance Ritual
Seblang Dance is typically performed during the Islamic month of Syawal, exactly seven days after the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. This sacred tradition is part of a local ritual called bersih desa (village purification), conducted by the Osing people of Banyuwangi, East Java. The ritual is believed to cleanse the village from negative energy and invite blessings for the coming year. The entire village takes part in the preparations, with offerings, music, and traditional ceremonies leading up to the dance performance.
The Distinctive Traits of Seblang Dance
One of the most unique aspects of Seblang Dance lies in its abstract and mystical movements. The choreography does not follow a set structure, allowing the dancer who is believed to enter a trance state to move freely under spiritual influence. What makes this dance even more remarkable is the way the dancer is chosen.