Barakik-rakik to the Upstream, We Face the Storm: An Exploration of the Philosophical Values of the Barakik-rakik Tradition in the Maninjau Community

Isman, Marisa
Syeilendra, Syeilendra

Electronic Journal of Education, Social Economics and Technology
Vol 6, No 2 (2025)

This study explores the Barakik-Rakik oral tradition that has developed in the Nagari Maninjau community, West Sumatra, as part of the Minangkabau cultural heritage, which is rich in moral, social, and spiritual values. This tradition serves not only as entertainment but also as an educational medium, a means of strengthening cultural identity, and a vehicle for transmitting noble values in community life. In practice, Barakik-Rakik often conveys social criticism, advice, and reflections on daily life through distinctive symbols and traditional artistic expressions. This study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method, through direct observation and interviews with local cultural practitioners. The research findings indicate that this tradition reflects the Minangkabau philosophy of life, such as “adat basandi syarak, syarak basandi Kitabullah,” and embodies deeply rooted local wisdom. Therefore, the preservation of Barakik-Rakik is important, not only as part of Indonesia's cultural heritage but also as a valuable resource for character education and the formation of cultural identity rooted in the local community's way of life.