al-Afkar, Journal For Islamic Studies
Vol. 8 No. 4 (2025)

Prayers to the White Blood Datuk in the Chinese Ethnic Faith in Medan Kesawan

Jihan Fahira (Unknown)
Desi Herawati (Unknown)
Dumel Awiyah Br Harahap (Unknown)
Epridasari Batubara (Unknown)
Saputri (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Nov 2025

Abstract

The Sembahyang Datuk Darah Putih ritual is a significant practice among the Tionghoa ethnic community in Medan Kesawan, reflecting a unique syncretism between Chinese religious beliefs and local Malay spiritual traditions. This study aims to explore the historical and cultural significance of this ritual, the religious syncretism involved, and the factors contributing to its preservation. Employing a qualitative research method with an ethnographic approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis. The findings reveal that the veneration of Datuk Darah Putih is rooted in the historical interactions between Chinese immigrants and local Malay communities, symbolizing respect, gratitude, and a form of spiritual protection. The ritual has evolved over generations, adapting to contemporary socio-cultural changes while maintaining its core religious essence. The study also identifies challenges in sustaining the tradition, including modernization and diminishing interest among younger generations. The research concludes that Sembahyang Datuk Darah Putih serves as a cultural bridge between the Tionghoa and Malay communities, reinforcing interethnic harmony and religious tolerance. Further studies are recommended to examine the broader impact of such syncretic practices on multicultural societies.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Afkar_Journal

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is published by Association of Secondment Lecturers (Asosiasi Dosen DPK) UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Indonesia. Focus of al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is on publishing original empirical research articles and theoretical reviews of Islamic Studies, ...