ANALISIS SEMANTIK “HORAS” SEBAGAI SIMBOL IDENTITAS BUDAYA BATAK TOBA

Abstract

This study attempts to uncover the semantic meaning of the term "Horas" as a

symbol of the cultural identity of the Batak Toba people. The context of this study

began with concerns about the declining awareness of the younger generation

about the cultural meaning contained in traditional greetings. This study uses a

qualitative descriptive approach using semantic analysis techniques that combine

structural semantics and ethnolinguistic perspectives. Data were collected through

comprehensive interviews with traditional spokespersons, supplemented by

analysis of literature and cultural media. The findings of the study indicate that the

term "Horas" not only signifies safety and well-being in the lexical sense, but also

carries contextual meanings as prayers, blessings, spiritual support, and

representations of social relationships. In various customary settings such as

marriage, migration, death, and social events, "Horas" functions as a representation

of noble values such as solidarity, respect, and family. The findings of this study

emphasize that maintaining the important meaning of "Horas" is very important in

order to uphold the cultural identity of the Batak Toba people and must be integrated

through education and adaptive cultural media for future generations.