Proses Kontemplasi Menjadi “Namalo” Didalam Masyarakat Batak Toba di Kecamatan Pangururan

Abstract

This research aims to understand and determine the process of transformation of individuals into traditional medicine practitioners known as namalo, who have an important position in the socio-cultural structure of society. Unlike prospective medical practitioners who follow formal pathways such as academic education, professional training, and clinical experience, aspiring namalo undergo an informal process that is spiritual and personal in nature. This transformation is generally marked by profound contemplative experiences, serving as a form of meaning-making regarding the calling to become a healer. The study employs a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the subjective experiences of the informants. The findings indicate that the process of contemplation to become a namalo involves stages of physical and psychological suffering, dietary restrictions, conflicts within the family environment, and experiences of participating in gondang jujungan. Each of these stages is interpreted as a process of spiritual selection or a test of suitability that reinforces the new identity as a namalo. Acceptance as a namalo is not merely a status, but a social and spiritual responsibility. This role is important because it is believed to heal both physical and non-physical ailments. In this context, a namalo builds their social reality through continuous social interactions, which are based on trust, customs, and spiritual responsibilities.