Ite Kakang Aring: Symbolism and Kinship in the Traditional Lego-Lego Dance

The symbolic depth of traditional dances is increasingly threatened by modernization and cultural erosion, particularly in small indigenous communities such as Alor Kecil. This study addresses the problem of diminishing cultural meaning by exploring how symbolic interactions and song lyrics within the Lego-Lego dance reflect and sustain the cultural philosophy of Ite Kakang Aring, a local concept emphasizing unity, kinship, and collective responsibility among clans. Using ethnographic methods that include participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, the research analyzes ritual performances of Beku Hada (Juba Dodo) through symbolic interaction and interpretive analysis of lyrics. Findings show that ritual stages such as Geke Faking, Juba Dodo, and Tuho Muko act as social instruments reinforcing inter-clan cohesion. Song lines like “Rua kakang aring ari nolo nai apa nolo nai” and “Amang bapang tulung taling feking” articulate the principles of kinship and mutual support. The seven symbolic rotations in the dance correspond to the seven clans of Alor Kecil, encoding both sociopolitical structure and collective identity. The study concludes that the Lego-Lego dance functions as a living traditional practice that preserves cultural identity, promotes social harmony, and ensures intergenerational continuity.