Kinia (Traditional Shield) Among the Tolaki People of Meluhu Village, Meluhu Subdistrict, Konawe Regency (1960-2023)

Abstrak

This study aims to explain the history, form, and symbolic meaning of the Kinia (Shield) of the Tolaki people in Meluhu Village, Meluhu District, Konawe Regency. Using a qualitative descriptive historical method with a structuralist approach, the findings show that the Kinia has been known since the era of the Konawe and Mekongga kingdoms, used in warfare, the monga'e tradition, and the umoara dance. The Kinia is rectangular with Tolaki-style carvings and decorations of human hair (O`wu). Symbolically, the Kinia represents strength, bravery, cultural identity, and spiritual meaning, with specific colors and motifs symbolizing power (black), glory (yellow), and purity (white). The hair elements on the Kinia also symbolize victory and strength. This research reveals the cultural values embedded in the use of Kinia for the Tolaki people.

Kata kunci

• Kinia
• Shield
• Symbolism
• Tolaki Culture
• symbolic meaning