Arifin Manggau, Prusdianto Prusdianto
This study examines Iyabelale, a traditional lullaby ritual of the Bugis community in South Sulawesi, as a multidimensional cultural practice within family life. At the same time, lullabies are often regarded simply as soothing songs; Iyabelale functions as a lived tradition that integrates ritual protection, maternal intimacy, and moral education. Employing a qualitative ethnographic design, data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews with mothers, grandmothers, and cultural elders, and document analysis of lyrics and ritual archives in Bone, Wajo, and Soppeng regencies. Thematic analysis revealed three interrelated functions: first, Iyabelale as a ritual practice that involves protective symbolism through objects such as knives, onions, and mirrors; second, Iyabelale as an affective expression that reinforces maternal identity and intergenerational bonding; and third, Iyabelale as a pedagogical tool embedding Bugis values of honesty (lempu’), perseverance (getteng), industriousness (reso), and courage (warani). The findings demonstrate that Iyabelale is not merely a musical performance but a holistic system through which families nurture infants, transmit values, and sustain cultural identity. Beyond its traditional role, younger mothers also adapt lyrics to contemporary aspirations, illustrating the ritual’s resilience and relevance. These insights underscore the significance of indigenous lullabies as cultural archives and informal educational practices, offering implications for early childhood education, maternal care, and cultural preservation. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2026.
Performing Arts Study Program, Makassar State University, Dg. Tata Raya, South Sulawesi, Makassar, 90224, Indonesia
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