Philosophy of Ketupat and Opor: the spreading of islamic preaching through local culinary in Java Island

ABSTRACT

The dish of Ketupat and Opor has played a significant role in the spread of Islamic preaching. This traditional dish has been used as a means of reaching the local population through their stomachs, incorporating Islamic teachings into local culinary practices. This paper aims to explore the philosophical implications of the spread of Islamic preaching through local culinary practices in Java Islands, with a focus on the dish of Ketupat and Opor. This is a qualitative method with library study, the instruments are observation and documentation. The paper draws on a combination of anthropological and philosophical approaches to explore the significance of Ketupat and Opor in the context of Islamic preaching in the Java Islands. Results found the dish has been used as a means of incorporating Islamic teachings into local culinary practices, creating a uniquely Javanese form of Islamic practice that resonates with the local population. In conclusion, the dish has become an important part of Javanese cultural and religious celebrations. The combination of Ketupat and Opor has become an important symbol of unity and togetherness and has helped to create a strong sense of community among Javanese Muslims.

KEYWORDS:

• Culinary
• Islamic holiday
• Javanese
• Ketupat
• Opor
• preaching

Acknowledgment

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed and supported our research on the philosophy of Ketupat and Opor, as well as the importance of these two local dishes as a medium for the spread of Islamic propagation in Java. Without the help and encouragement from various parties, this research would not have been possible. First, we would like to thank the people, especially the key informants in the special regions of Jogjakarta, Solo, and Semarang, who voluntarily shared their knowledge and stories about the deep meaning of Ketupat and Opor as a symbol of togetherness and diversity in the adherents of Islam in this area. In addition, we would also like to thank the ulama and religious leaders who have helped in explaining and sharing insights on how to use these dishes as a tool of da’wah and unification of the people. Finally, we hope that this research can be a new insight and contribution to understanding how important local culinary arts are in the spread of Islam in Java.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).