Memperkuat Nilai Budaya dan Identitas Keagamaan melalui Puja Puji Berbahasa Jawa di Vihara Damarsuci

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of Javanese-language puja puji practices on strengthening cultural values and religious identity among Buddhist communities at Vihara Damarsuci. A quantitative approach was employed using a survey administered to 50 respondents selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire that had been validated and tested for reliability. Statistical analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation and simple linear regression. The findings indicate that all questionnaire items were valid and reliable, with Cronbach’s Alpha values exceeding 0.87. The Pearson correlation test reveals a strong positive relationship (r = 0.691, p = 0.000) between participation in Javanese puja puji and the strengthening of cultural values and religious identity. Regression analysis further confirms a significant effect, with a contribution of 47.7%, and shows that each unit increase in participation enhances cultural and religious identity reinforcement by 0.571 points. These results underscore the strategic role of vernacular language in religious rituals as a means of sustaining local cultural continuity and deepening spiritual engagement within Javanese-Buddhist communities. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving Javanese puja puji as an instrument of cultural-religious identity and recommends expanding educational and cultural programs within Buddhist institutions.