cirebon cultural tourism 
Nebus Weteng tradition or also known as mitoni is one of the Javanese traditions related to woman pregnancy. The word “nebus” comes from the Javanese language which means “to replace”, while “weteng” refers to the “stomach”. The Religious elements contained in this tradition symbolize for the pregnancy and pray for the health of the baby.
Meaning and Philosophy Nebus Weteng
Cirebon is very rich in customs, thick with a blend of culture and religion. Before Sunan Gunung Jati spread Islam to the Cirebon region on the orders of the Sultanate of Banten, the people of Cirebon did not recognize culture and religion.
Cirebon, which at that time adhered to Hinduism and Buddhism, commemorated various important events in life. One of which was the commemoration of the seventh month or commonly called Nebus. Nebus Weteng tradition in Cirebon has a deep meaning and philosophy.
This tradition aims to show the gratitude of a family for being blessed with pregnancy. This tradition also shows solidarity and social cohesion among community members. Especially for pregnant women who feel supported by those closest to them. In addition, the philosophy of the nebus weteng tradition teaches humans to always remember who created life. This tradition also contains a meaning of gratitude for having been given prospective offspring in the womb of the expectant mother.
Symbols and Equipment
- Rujak is an important symbol in this tradition. Which consists of pomegranate, dried grapefruit, pineapple, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and other spices.
- Ivory Coconut decorated by Kamajaya. The long gourd decorated by Dewi Ratih. These have meanings related to the wishes for the desired appearance and traits for the baby to be born.
- Seven flowers are also important symbols in nebus weteng, symbolizing the hope for a healthy and happy birth.
- There are also other paraphernalia such as eggs, lawe thread or janur kuning, tumpeng, porridge or jenang, gedangan rice, and dawet.
Written by: Adil Sabilarrohman
