Changes in Function and Meaning

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 104 views

Lage Hambian: A Symbol of Pride and Tourism Potential of Batak Angkola in Medan City

Introduction

Medan City, the capital of North Sumatra Province, is a melting pot of cultures, including the Batak Angkola community. This ethnographic research aims to examine the function and use of Lage Hambian, a typical Batak Angkola traditional mat, in the context of people's lives in Medan City. The focus of this research is located in Medan Tembung District, an area that represents the Batak Angkola community in this metropolitan city.

Medan City was chosen as a research location due to its strategic position as the center of government of North Sumatra Province, making it a hub for various cultures, including the Batak Angkola. The existence of the Batak Angkola community with the completeness of customs in this city and the location of Medan Tembung, which is a transportation center and inhabited by many Batak Angkola people, makes it the right location to examine the existence and function of Lage Hambian.

This study uses qualitative ethnographic methods by collecting data through interviews, observations, and literature studies. The focus of the study lies in the understanding of the use and function of Lage Hambian, the symbolic meaning contained therein, as well as the potential of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity.

Changes in Function and Meaning

The results of this study showed that Lage Hambian, which used to function as a base or seat, has now experienced a shift in function into a symbol of social status for the Batak Angkola community in Medan City. The use of Lage Hambian in a marriage ceremony is proof that the existence of this traditional mat still plays an important role in preserving the cultural values of the Batak Angkola.

The shift in function of Lage Hambian can be attributed to the changing times and the influence of modernization in Medan City. As the city continues to grow and develop, the traditional ways of life are being replaced by modern practices. However, the Batak Angkola community has managed to adapt to these changes while still preserving their cultural heritage.

The use of Lage Hambian in a marriage ceremony is a significant aspect of Batak Angkola culture. The ceremony is a symbol of the union between two families and the beginning of a new life together. The presence of Lage Hambian in the ceremony serves as a reminder of the cultural values and traditions that are being passed down from generation to generation.

The Symbolic Meaning that is Maintained

The symbolic meaning contained in Lage Hambian is maintained despite changes in its use and context in the city of Medan. A Lage Hambian symbolizes the social status of an individual Batak Angkola, which includes the position, layer of mats, and colors used. This symbolic meaning is a reflection of the noble values inherited from generation to generation.

The symbolic meaning of Lage Hambian is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the Batak Angkola community. The use of Lage Hambian in a marriage ceremony is a way of showcasing the social status of the couple and their families. The position, layer of mats, and colors used in the ceremony are all significant aspects of the symbolic meaning of Lage Hambian.

The symbolic meaning of Lage Hambian is not limited to the Batak Angkola community. It is a reflection of the cultural values and traditions that are shared among the people of North Sumatra Province. The use of Lage Hambian in a marriage ceremony is a way of preserving the cultural heritage of the region and passing it down to future generations.

Tourism Potential and Cultural Preservation

Seeing the potential contained in it, Lage Hambian can be developed into a tourism commodity. Through a creative process, this traditional mat can be formed into a typical Souvenir of Batak Angkola that is attractive to tourists. This can not only provide added value for the Batak Angkola community in Medan City, but also an effort to preserve culture and ancestral heritage.

The development of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity can be done through various means, such as creating a museum or a cultural center that showcases the history and significance of Lage Hambian. This can also be done through the creation of souvenirs, such as traditional mats, clothing, and accessories that are inspired by Lage Hambian.

The development of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity can also provide economic benefits for the Batak Angkola community. The sale of souvenirs and other products inspired by Lage Hambian can generate income for the community and help to preserve their cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Lage Hambian is a clear proof of the preservation of the Batak Angkola culture in the middle of the modernization of Medan City. The shift in functions and meanings that occur actually shows the flexibility and cultural adaptation of the changing times. By utilizing tourism potential, Lage Hambian can be a bridge between past and future, as well as a source of pride and progress for the Batak Angkola community in Medan City.

The preservation of Lage Hambian is not only important for the Batak Angkola community, but also for the people of North Sumatra Province. It is a reflection of the cultural values and traditions that are shared among the people of the region. The development of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity can provide economic benefits and help to preserve the cultural heritage of the region.

In conclusion, Lage Hambian is a significant aspect of Batak Angkola culture and a symbol of the community's social status. The shift in function and meaning of Lage Hambian is a reflection of the changing times and the influence of modernization in Medan City. By utilizing tourism potential, Lage Hambian can be a bridge between past and future, as well as a source of pride and progress for the Batak Angkola community in Medan City.
Lage Hambian: A Symbol of Pride and Tourism Potential of Batak Angkola in Medan City

Q&A: Understanding Lage Hambian and its Significance

Q: What is Lage Hambian?

A: Lage Hambian is a traditional mat used by the Batak Angkola community in Medan City. It is a symbol of social status and is used in various ceremonies and events.

Q: What is the significance of Lage Hambian in Batak Angkola culture?

A: Lage Hambian is a significant aspect of Batak Angkola culture and is used to showcase the social status of an individual or family. It is also a symbol of the community's cultural heritage and traditions.

Q: How has the function of Lage Hambian changed over time?

A: The function of Lage Hambian has changed over time from being a base or seat to a symbol of social status. This change is a reflection of the changing times and the influence of modernization in Medan City.

Q: What is the symbolic meaning of Lage Hambian?

A: The symbolic meaning of Lage Hambian includes the position, layer of mats, and colors used. It is a reflection of the noble values inherited from generation to generation.

Q: How can Lage Hambian be developed as a tourism commodity?

A: Lage Hambian can be developed as a tourism commodity through various means, such as creating a museum or a cultural center that showcases the history and significance of Lage Hambian. This can also be done through the creation of souvenirs, such as traditional mats, clothing, and accessories that are inspired by Lage Hambian.

Q: What are the benefits of developing Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity?

A: The development of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity can provide economic benefits for the Batak Angkola community and help to preserve their cultural heritage. It can also provide a source of pride and progress for the community.

Q: How can the preservation of Lage Hambian be ensured?

A: The preservation of Lage Hambian can be ensured through various means, such as creating a museum or a cultural center that showcases the history and significance of Lage Hambian. This can also be done through the creation of souvenirs, such as traditional mats, clothing, and accessories that are inspired by Lage Hambian.

Q: What is the role of tourism in preserving cultural heritage?

A: Tourism can play a significant role in preserving cultural heritage by providing economic benefits and promoting cultural awareness. It can also help to preserve traditional practices and customs.

Q: How can the Batak Angkola community benefit from the development of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity?

A: The Batak Angkola community can benefit from the development of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity through the creation of jobs and economic opportunities. It can also help to preserve their cultural heritage and promote their cultural identity.

Q: What is the significance of Lage Hambian in the context of cultural preservation?

A: Lage Hambian is a significant aspect of Batak Angkola culture and is used to preserve the community's cultural heritage and traditions. It is a symbol of the community's social status and is used in various ceremonies and events.

Q: How can the preservation of Lage Hambian be promoted?

A: The preservation of Lage Hambian can be promoted through various means, such as creating a museum or a cultural center that showcases the history and significance of Lage Hambian. This can also be done through the creation of souvenirs, such as traditional mats, clothing, and accessories that are inspired by Lage Hambian.

Q: What is the future of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity?

A: The future of Lage Hambian as a tourism commodity is promising, with the potential to provide economic benefits and promote cultural awareness. It can also help to preserve the cultural heritage of the Batak Angkola community and promote their cultural identity.