Buffalo in Traditional Javanese Expressions

Author(s) : Doni Dwi Hartanto; Endang Nurhayati; Siti Mulyani; Aminatul Nur Afifah; Mohamad
Makincoiri

Institution : Javanese Department, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Category : Article, IJMMU

Topics : Buffalo Traditional, Javanese, Expressions

Buffalo are one of the animals that are easily found in agrarian societies. Buffalo is often used in society to represent something in communication. This research aims to interpret the buffalo animal in traditional Javanese expressions. The research method used is qualitative with Riffaterre’s semiotic approach. The research data source is written/library sources containing information about traditional Javanese expressions, particularly those using the word buffalo. Data collection was carried out using the read-and-note method with purposive sampling technique. Researchers are the key instrument in this study. Data analysis was conducted using qualitative analysis techniques with Riffaterre’s semiotic approach. Data validity was ensured through semantic validity and theoretical triangulation. Based on the research findings, it was found that the word kebo (buffalo) is quite frequently used in traditional expressions. At least 17 traditional expressions using the word buffalo were found. The word buffalo in traditional Javanese expressions represents cleverness, bad deeds, foolishness, and familiarity. Javanese society, when composing traditional expressions, consistently uses diction that is close to the lives of its people. The chosen diction represents a Javanese human nature, behavior, and character, symbolized by the surrounding environment.

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