<![CDATA[The background of this study is the belief in the Nagarasong community, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, that the water of Wair Nokerua has the efficacy to cure various types of illnesses, ward off demons and evil spirits, and provide refreshment. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore this belief as a significant social and religious phenomenon. The method used in this study is a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative descriptive research methods. A total of 66 respondents agreed to complete a questionnaire, which was then analyzed as quantitative data. Respondents were selected using non-probability sampling techniques, meaning that those who completed the questionnaire were individuals who voluntarily expressed their willingness to do so. For the qualitative data, the researchers interviewed four informants. They were selected based on their experience using water from Wair Nokerua and their knowledge of the spring’s origins. In addition, the researchers also conducted direct observations at the Wair Nokerua site. The research findings indicate that Wair Nokerua is constructed and interpreted by the community as a magical water source based on an oral tradition that a Catholic missionary once traveled through the Nangarasong region, causing a spring to emerge in that area. This belief is reinforced by the personal experiences and religious convictions of those who have consumed and used the water. Thus, this study suggests that the people of Nangarasong hold a very strong belief in Wair Nokerua, and this belief is sustained through origin legends, personal experiences, religious practices, and various forms of water use.]]>
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