Petik Tirta Amerta: A Sacred Ritual Celebrating Life and Water in East Java

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Petik Tirta Amerta is a sacred ritual that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in East Java, Indonesia. This ceremony celebrates the vital relationship between humans and water, which is essential for sustaining life.

The phrase Tirta Amerta means the water of life. It highlighting the importance of water as a source of both physical nourishment and spiritual purity. Through this ritual, communities express gratitude for water and their commitment to preserving it for future generations.

The Ceremony and Its Symbolism

The ceremony begins with a solemn procession from the Arboretum entrance in Sumber Brantas to the source of the Brantas River. Participants, including traditional dancers, elders, and local community members, carry bamboo containers filled with offerings.

At the sacred spring, dancers perform the Tirta Amerta dance, which is a symbolic tribute to the water’s purity and life-giving power. Elders then lead prayers and blessings, invoking protection for the river and the people who depend on it.

The number of dancers performing in the ritual usually totals five, which holds symbolic meaning in local belief. Four dancers represent the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) while the fifth dancer symbolizes humanity positioned at the center.

This arrangement reflects the interconnectedness of all beings and the environment, emphasizing that water unites communities across different regions. It serves as a reminder that protecting water resources is a collective responsibility that supports harmony and balance in nature.

Cultural Insights and Meaning

Sunarto, Chairman of the Batu City Arts Council, described the ritual’s deeper message.The guy said that it signifies efforts to preserve water while fostering a spiritual connection with nature.

"It reminds us of the purity of heart and mind, and the sincerity required to protect water for life," he said. His words underscore the ceremony’s role in nurturing both environmental awareness and inner reflection.

Modern Relevance and Environmental Message

In today’s context, Petik Tirta Amerta has taken on renewed importance as a symbol of environmental stewardship. With increasing concerns over water pollution and scarcity, the ritual reminds people of the need to act responsibly towards nature.

It not only honors ancient traditions but also advocates for sustainable water management practices. By preserving these rituals, communities continue to raise awareness about the critical role water plays in maintaining ecological and social well-being.

In conclusion, Petik Tirta Amerta is much more than a traditional ceremony; it is a powerful expression of respect, gratitude, and responsibility toward nature. Through this sacred ritual, communities reconnect with their environment and reaffirm their dedication to protecting precious water sources.

It reminds us all that water is not merely a resource but a sacred element essential for life. By embracing the spirit of Petik Tirta Amerta, we commit to preserving the water of life for the generations to come. (*)