<![CDATA[The global ecological crisis demonstrates that the relationship between humans and nature is increasingly threatened by resource exploitation, environmental pollution, and an anthropocentric worldview that places humans at the center of life. In this context, local wisdom can serve as a source of ethical values for developing ecological awareness. This study aims to analyze ecocentric values in the Barong Wae ritual of the Manggarai community and their relevance to modern life. The study employs a library research method by collecting, examining, and analyzing books, scientific journals, articles, and previous studies related to ecocentrism, Manggarai culture, and the Barong Wae ritual. The findings indicate that the Barong Wae ritual is not merely a customary practice with cultural and spiritual significance but also contains important ecological values. These values include the sacredness of nature, ecological responsibility, and harmony and balance between humans and the environment. Respect for springs as sources of life reflects an awareness that nature possesses intrinsic value beyond its usefulness to humans. Furthermore, this ritual emphasizes the community’s collective responsibility to preserve water sources and their surrounding environments. From an ecocentric perspective, humans are part of an interconnected ecological system; therefore, nature must be utilized wisely and responsibly. This study concludes that the Barong Wae ritual is relevant to the development of contemporary environmental ethics. Preserving and strengthening its underlying values can foster ecological awareness, reinforce collective responsibility, and encourage a more harmonious relationship between humans and nature amid the challenges of the modern environmental crisis.]]>
