Purpose of the study: This study aims to describe the symbolic meaning of the food names contained in the offerings at the Mantenan Tebu traditional ceremony.
Methodology: This study used the descriptive qualitative method. The qualitative was used because it relates to the discussion of the data obtained in the form of words or explanations and not figures. The data in this study were in the form of the names of offering foods traditional ceremonies. Mantenan Tebu in Tasikmadu, Karanganyar. The data were collected by observation, interviews with informants and document analysis.
Main Findings: Food in each offering has a meaning conveyed through symbols. This offering manifests the gratitude and request to God Almighty, as well as hope for the safety in the lives of Javanese people
Implication/Applications of this study: The results of this study can be used for the university, teachers, students, and community. Even though traditional ceremonies always use offerings, not everyone knows the meaning. Therefore, this culture must be preserved, so students, teachers, universities and the community can learn about it and find out the meaning of foods in offerings that are delivered through symbols.
Novelty/Originality of this study: Thus, it is necessary to study the symbolic meaning of each food used as an offering in the Mantenan Tebu tradition. Thus, the study discusses the names of foods in offerings and the symbolic meanings contained in the offerings at the Mantenan Tebu traditional ceremony.