Language Semiotics: the Symbolic Meaning of Traditional Minangkabau Food in Custom Ceremonies

Abstract

Abstract Minangkabau traditional cuisine is food or beverage commonly consumed by the Minangkabau people with a distinctive taste from other food in Indonesia. Its distinctive taste implies a symbolic meaning (Elliott 1994, Hodder 2012, Siregar 2012). The study aims to describe the types and symbolic meanings of traditional Minangkabau food at traditional ceremonies in the tanah darek. The study uses semiotic theory with qualitative research methods. Data collection applies methods of observation, interviews, and literature study. Data is processed by reduction, interpretation, and triangulation methods. The results of the data analysis found that the traditional food of the alek marapulai traditional ceremony consisted of the main course and kawa drinking food. The main courses include rice, beef rendang, chicken rendang, omelet, keripik tunjuk ikan teri, cubadak kicuah, gulai lobak kuah putih. Kawa drinking food consists of galamai, batiah, dakak-dakak, wajik, lemang, pinyaram, bareh randang, and sikunyik. Rendang symbolizes patience, wisdom, and perseverance. Beef rendang, chicken rendang, omelet, and keripik tunjuk ikan teri symbolize equality; batiah symbolizes the unity between people, especially between two families bound by marriage; and pinyaramsymbolizes the sacredness of marriage and the importance of the loyalty of two people bound by marriage.