IJoIS: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Studies Vol. 6, 1 (January-June, 2. , pp. EISSN: 2745-7745. DOI: 10. 59525/ijois. Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Celebration Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW Heridianto Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Al-Utsmani Bondowoso. Indonesia. heridianto26@staialutsmani. ARTICLE INFO Keywords: Mutual Cooperation. Religious. Prophet's Birthday Article history: Received 2024-11-05 Revised 2024-12-14 Accepted 2025-02-07 ABSTRACT This study examines the role of religious celebrations and local wisdom in fostering community solidarity and cultural preservation in Indonesia. The background of this research is rooted in the importance of religious traditions and rituals, which not only serve as a means of spiritual reflection but also as an important component in strengthening social bonds in The purpose of this study is to analyze how religious practices, such as Eid al-Fitr and the Prophet's Birthday, contribute to strengthening local wisdom values, including mutual cooperation, social concern, and respect for the This research uses a qualitative approach, focusing on community-based traditions, interviews, and participant observations to capture the cultural dynamics surrounding these The results revealed that these religious events are not only an expression of faith but also play a key role in promoting social cohesion through collective activities such as sharing food, praying together, and exchanging support. These practices encourage the transmission of intergenerational values such as humility, cooperation, and empathy. In conclusion, this study highlights the deep relationship between religious celebrations and local wisdom, which suggests that these traditions are important for maintaining social harmony and cultural identity in contemporary Indonesian society. These findings also emphasize the importance of preserving these traditions as a way to strengthen spiritual and societal ties in the midst of globalization and modernization. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC license. Corresponding Author: Heridianto Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Al-Utsmani Bondowoso, heridianto26@staialutsmani. INTRODUCTION The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday is a commemoration of the Prophet's birthday which is celebrated by Muslims in various parts of the world. In Indonesia, this celebration is a tradition that has a rich meaning, especially because in some regions it is combined with a unique local culture. One of the local traditions related to the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday is ancak. This tradition is https://journal. org/index. php/ijois IJoIS: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Studies Vol. 6, 1 (January-June, 2. : 7-12 8 of 12 carried out by arranging various produce, food, and other offerings on a special container known as However, the form, content, and presentation of ancak can vary depending on the local culture of the local community, thus creating a distinctive cultural identity in religious celebrations. (Zulkifli. Rochim, 2. The combination of religious celebrations and local wisdom such as ancak shows how people interpret religion in their cultural context. The ancak tradition is not only a medium of gratitude and prayer, but also a symbol of local wisdom that unites togetherness and social concern. However, in the modern era, the existence of this tradition began to decrease along with the shift in values and technological developments that changed the way people preserved their traditions. (Yusuf, 2. From a social perspective, the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday through ancak is not only limited to religious rituals, but also a medium for cultural preservation that strengthens local identity and a sense of togetherness. This tradition reflects the harmony between religious beliefs and the cultural values of the local community, so that it becomes a space for Muslims to appreciate cultural heritage while deepening their religious understanding. (Ahmad, 2. In addition, the values contained in a tradition are local wisdom in the social order so that these values can be used as the main source in forming civic culture. Civic culture is a collection of societal ideas that are expressed in a culture so that it can form and maintain citizen identities. This civic culture needs to be improved and developed through citizens' knowledge and understanding of the value and meaning of symbols contained in a tradition. (Beno. Silen, and Yanti 2. Based on the above, this article examines the integration between religious traditions and local culture to strengthen religious identity while strengthening social ties in society. This research was carried out in Mengok Village because residents were very enthusiastic about the Prophet's Birthday activities which are synonymous with the Ancak tradition. The research was conducted to find out the values contained in the implementation of religion juxtaposed with the culture of local wisdom in Mengok Village. Regarding the latest writings on mutual cooperation in religious celebrations, especially in the context of the Prophet's Birthday and local wisdom such as research on social values in the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday in Bangka reflects a strong social structure (Rozani and Bahri, 2. , examining how cultural and religious acculturation occurs in the Baayun Maulid tradition (Jamalie, 2. , communication Actions in the Mauludan Tradition in Kemuja Village. West Mendo Regency. Bangka Belitung Islands Province (Rismawati dan Deria, 2. , the Meron tradition in Sukolilo becomes a symbol of mutual cooperation and social solidarity (Rohani, 2. , the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday in Pesayangan as an event for community togetherness (Mujiyati, 2. , the value of mutual cooperation which is also found in other religious activities, shows how local traditions are able to form a positive culture in the life of the community (Sari, 2. (Kristianto, 2. also emphasizes the importance of art and culture in strengthening social relations in local communities. Besides that. Siti Mahimmatul Khoiroh (Khoiroh and Malasari 2. Nahdiyah (Saiffuddin 2. Dwi Tyas Rahmawati (Rahmawati. Triyanto, and Purwanto 2. and Nur Latifa (Beno et al. From the results of the above research. Nahdiyah researched about the tradition of the practice of the Prophet Muhammad's maulid based on sociological studies of the meaning of the maulid here is more about the commemoration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad Saw which has become a tradition in a certain society, region and country. Thus the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday carried out by the Muslim community is very related to the religious dimension so that it seems to be inseparable from social institutions that include values and religious norms. Meanwhile. Dwi Tyas Rahmawati discussed fostering the spirit of mutual cooperation between residents and the function of Meron culture as a way to preserve the traditions that already exist in Sukollo Pati to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad SAW. Based on the results of the researcher's initial observations conducted in Mengok Village. Pujer District. Bondowoso Regency, the researcher found that many people do not understand or lack understanding where religious activities (Maulid Nab. are related to Local Wisdom (Anca. The community in general only fulfilled the invitation from Shohibul Hajah that this activity was a Heridianto / Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Celebration Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW IJoIS: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Studies Vol. 6, 1 (January-June, 2. : 7-12 9 of 12 commemoration of respect for the birth of the Prophet Muhammad SAW as a champion of Muslims. With the low understanding of the community in Mengok. Pujer District. Bondowoso Regency, it requires a vehicle to provide understanding related to these two themes, especially bringing in people who understand religion and culture in the community. With this research, it can explore and identify the values of local wisdom contained in certain religious celebrations, such as the values of togetherness, tolerance, mutual cooperation, and respect for ancestors and the environment, and can be an effective means of maintaining, reviving, and teaching local values to the younger generation and the wider community. Finally, it is hoped that this research will contribute to the literature on local wisdom and religious celebrations as a way to maintain local culture, which enriches cultural studies and diversity in religious perspectives. METHODS In this study, the researcher uses a qualitative approach, which is descriptive. Qualitative descriptive studies problems systematically and accurately regarding the facts and properties of certain Descriptive research aims to explain, describe and map facts based on a certain perspective or frame of mind. The data collection method used in this study is Observation (Sukmadinata, 2. the researcher looks at the object to be observed and the place & time of its implementation. Interview is conducted to obtain further information about the conditions contained in the Prophet's Maulid activities. The research subjects, namely community leaders and documentation, are not a continuation of the results of observations and interviews as a form of strengthening the results of both. For data analysis, the researcher uses theories according to Matthew B. Miles. Huberman, including Data Collection (Huberman, 2. Data Condensation. Data Display (Huberman, 2. and Drawing and Verifying Conclusion (Huberman, 2. FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION In this discussion. Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Birthday Celebration of the Prophet SAW will be discussed. Therefore, the research topic will be discussed thoroughly and thoroughly in this discussion, which includes the following research: Religious Celebrations as a Forum for Shaping Community Character Religious celebrations are a form of celebration carried out by religious groups or certain religions to commemorate important moments in their history, teachings, or religious traditions. Each religion has different celebrations, which are usually marked by special rituals, ceremonies, or activities that aim to strengthen faith, honor holy figures, and recall religious values. This celebration can be a big event celebrated together by all religious believers, or a small ceremony that is carried out within the scope of the family. Religious Celebrations as Traditions and Formation of Community Character Religious celebrations have an important role in the formation of individuals who are pious and obedient to Allah SWT. This activity not only commemorates religious moments, but also serves to strengthen social relationships, build character, and teach moral and religious values in daily life. Examples of Religious Celebrations in Indonesia Here are some examples of religious celebrations that are part of the traditions of Indonesian Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in Islam Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the month of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the story of the Prophet Ibrahim. The tradition of Eid al-Fitr in Java on the 7th day of Shawwal involves making ketupat and sharing it with each other as a symbol of togetherness and affection. Heridianto / Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Celebration Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW IJoIS: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Studies Vol. 6, 1 (January-June, 2. : 7-12 10 of 12 Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Ceremony The Prophet Muhammad's birthday is celebrated with various ceremonies at home, mosques, and The parade and grand recitation are part of this celebration, which involves considerable costs for its implementation. Rajaban Ceremony This ceremony is held in the month of Rajab and is the biggest religious celebration at the hamlet This activity involves contributions from each head of family and the provision of consumption for pilgrims who come. Selametan Ruwahan Ceremony Held on the 15th of the evening, this ceremony involved the reading of Surat Yasin and joint All worshippers pray for blessings and blessings of life. Figures. Tables and Schemes In this study, it is emphasized to analyze how religious practices, such as the celebration of Eid alFitr and the Prophet's Birthday, contribute to the strengthening of local wisdom values, including mutual cooperation, social concern, and respect for the environment, more details can be seen below. Table 1. Religious Celebrations in Indonesia Religious Activities Social Meaning Celebrations Making ketupat and sharing with Strengthening social relationships Eid al-Fitr each other between community members Respecting the Prophet Muhammad Maulid Nabi Grand parade and recitation SAW and increasing faith Contributions for event expenses. Strengthening togetherness in the Rajaban provision of consumption Reading of Surah Yasin and Joint Asking for blessings and blessings Ruwahan Prayer of life The Value of Local Wisdom in Religious Celebrations Almost every local culture in the archipelago is known for its local wisdom that teaches mutual cooperation, tolerance, work ethic, and so on. In general, ethics and moral values contained in local wisdom are taught from generation to generation, inherited from generation to generation through oral literature . mong others in the form of proverbs, slogans, and proverb. and manuscripts. The continuity of local wisdom is reflected in the values that apply to a certain group of people. These values will be integrated with the community and can be observed through their attitudes and behaviors in daily life. Local wisdom can be seen as a national identity, especially in the Indonesian context which allows local wisdom to transform cross-culturally which ultimately gives birth to national cultural Local Wisdom in Religious Traditions in Indonesia Local wisdom is knowledge that has developed for a long time in a culture or society, which has values that are relevant to social and religious life. These values are often inherited through oral literature, proverbs, slogans, and customs, which are part of the way of life of the community in overcoming life's challenges. The Values of Local Wisdom in Religious Traditions in Indonesia Some of the values of local wisdom contained in religious celebrations include: Heridianto / Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Celebration Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW IJoIS: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Studies Vol. 6, 1 (January-June, 2. : 7-12 11 of 12 Gotong Royong In every celebration, such as Eid al-Fitr and Rajaban, the community is involved in mutual cooperation, working together for the preparation and implementation of the ceremony. This strengthens social bonds within the community. Gratitude and Social Concern Offerings in some religious traditions reflect gratitude for the sustenance given by God and teach the importance of sharing with others, especially for those who are less fortunate. Respect for the Environment In traditions such as ancak, the use of produce as an offering shows gratitude for nature's blessings and teaches the importance of protecting the surrounding environment. Religious and Cultural Values Education Through this tradition, the younger generation is introduced to local religious and cultural values that are important to be passed down from generation to generation. Simplicity and Peace Religious traditions such as but also teach the values of simplicity and peace that are in harmony with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, as well as strengthen relationships between individuals in society. Discussion Religious celebrations in Indonesian society are not only a moment to commemorate religious teachings, but also a medium to instill local wisdom values. The values of mutual cooperation, gratitude, and social concern are some examples of important values contained in this religious The local wisdom shown in religious celebrations reflects the strong relationship between humans and the environment, as well as between fellow members of society. Traditions such as Eid al-Fitr. Rajaban. Prophet's Birthday, and selametan ruwahan illustrate the importance of cooperation, sharing, and protecting the environment. These values are continuously passed on to the next generation and enrich the culture of the community, making them relevant in modern life. In addition, the implementation of religious traditions also shows how local wisdom becomes a national identity that enriches national culture. Going forward, further research on how these religious celebrations are transforming and adopting new, more relevant elements in the context of globalization and modernization will provide deeper insights into their role in social life. CONCLUSION From the results of the discussion and analysis of Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Celebration of the Birthday of the Prophet SAW, the following can be concluded: Religious Celebrations as a Social and Spirituality Forum: Religious celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr, the Prophet's Birthday, and other traditions not only have a spiritual dimension but also strengthen social ties between members of society. For example, the distribution of ketupat on Eid al-Fitr and the parade in the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday show the importance of togetherness, gratitude, and sharing which are integral parts of social life. These celebrations help foster the spirit of mutual cooperation and social awareness among the community. Values of Local Wisdom in Religious Traditions: Religious traditions that contain local wisdom, such as those found in the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday with the tradition of ancak, carry noble values that include mutual cooperation, gratitude, education of religious and cultural values, and respect for the environment. This local wisdom has an important influence in preserving culture and is a way for people to adapt to their environment while maintaining the spiritual and social values inherited by their ancestors. Heridianto / Exploring the Value of Mutual Cooperation in Religious Celebrations: A Case Study of the Celebration Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW IJoIS: Indonesian Journal of Islamic Studies Vol. 6, 1 (January-June, 2. : 7-12 12 of 12 Gotong Royong as a Pillar of Social Life: Gotong Royong has emerged as a central value in various religious celebration traditions. Both in the distribution of ketupat during Eid al-Fitr and in preparation for the grand recitation in the celebration of the Prophet's Birthday, the community works together in building stronger social ties. Gotong royong also strengthens the sense of mutual belonging and concern for others, which makes community life more harmonious and meaningful. REFERENCES