<![CDATA[Lelakaq, a traditional poetic form of the Sasak community in Lombok, represents a cultural expression that reflects the values, social structure, and spirituality of its people. This study explores the position of Lelakaq within the cosmology, traditions, and value systems of the Sasak society using Lévi-Strauss’s structuralist approach. Lelakaq functions not only as an aesthetic medium but also as an instrument for transmitting moral, religious, and social values across generations. The findings show that Lelakaq illustrates the relationship between humans and God (hablun minallah), social relations within the Sasak community (hablun minannas), and the connection between humans and nature (hablun minal ‘alam). This tradition also records historical journeys, legends, myths, and the cultural dynamics of the Sasak people—shaped by influences from Hindu-Buddhist traditions, Balinese culture, Majapahit, Islam, and local beliefs such as Wetu Telu and Sasak Boda. Furthermore, Lelakaq serves as a means of character education that instills the values of tindih (steadfastness), maliq (avoiding prohibitions), and merang (creativity and adaptability). Through linguistic symbols and metaphors, Lelakaq conveys guidance on ethics, Islamic spirituality, awareness of mortality, and harmonious social living. In addition, the diversity of Sasak dialects enriches the forms and styles of Lelakaq, reflecting the linguistic complexity and social identity of its speakers. This study concludes that Lelakaq functions as a cultural mirror of Sasak life, intertwining tradition, religion, history, and local wisdom. Thus, Lelakaq is not merely a literary heritage but also a value system that sustains the cultural identity of the Sasak people in the face of evolving times.]]>
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