Pepe-Pepeka ri Makka


Pepe-Pepeka ri Makka dance is a traditional Makassar dance originating from South Sulawesi, Indonesia. This dance uses fire as the main property. More than just a cultural meaning, this dance is related to the early history of the spread of Islam in Sulawesi. In various literatures, the early narrative of the entry of Islam in South Sulawesi can be drawn up to the 17th century AD. At that time, the same as the initial stages of the spread of Islam in various regions of the Indonesian archipelago, the peace paths chosen to spread Islam were either through art or by simple customs, become the daily life of the local community. A very "smooth" way.
The relation of this dance to the Islamic aspect is confirmed from the literal understanding of the Pepe-Pepeka ri Makka, pepe 'means fire, ri means "di" which refers to information, Makka means Mecca which confirms the function "at" as a designation of place and symbolically refers to Islam. So, Pepe-Pepeka ri Makka is a dance that uses fire and has a relation with Islamic "symbol". A little description, this definition can refer to the song poetry sung by dancers. It reads:
The poetic pieces that accompany the Pepe-Pepeka ri Makka dance are believed to be a source of strength for the dancers. The term "power" also refers to the historical aspects surrounding this dance. It is said that aesthetic rhythms from motion to poetry that is sung is an attempt to illustrate the story of the Prophet Ibrahim, who, by God's will, can make peace with fire, not being completely eaten.