Analysis of the Gudo Kesoo Folk Belief Performance in the Sheko Ethnic Group

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the performance of Gudo Kesoo Folk Belief in the Sheko ethnic group. To achieve this purpose,  the following research questions were posited and answered in the process of this study. What is the process in performing Gudo Kesoo  folk belief? Why do the people perform it? What kind of symbols do the texts, materials, and actions presented on Gudo Kesoo's  performance have? What are the benefits of performing Gudo Kesoo, and what are the adverse influences of not performing Gudo  Kesoo? These research questions were raised and answered in the study. The study employed a qualitative research approach. To collect data, three data-gathering tools, namely observation, interview, and focus group discussion, were utilized. Performance and symbolism  theories were used to interpret the data collected from the field. The study followed a descriptive data analysis method to analyze the  performance of the folk belief and the processes of the events in the performance. The folk belief of Gudo Kesoo is a ritual ceremony  offered to the Creator (Yerochi) on a high mountain. It has been found out that the Shekacho nation celebrates the Gudo Keso ritual  ceremony with the belief that it keeps the local peace, health, and safety, and it has a good relationship with the Creator. They also  perform the ritual so that the social and cultural lifestyle will not be ruined, the grain and the money will be blessed, the sky and the earth  will be reconciled, the animals will grow, the milk and new products will become abundant, and the ecosystem will be protected.