Ethnomathematics Study on The Mantaa Duku' Tradition of The Toraja Traditional Community As A Context For Learning Mathematics

Ethnomathematics is an approach that examines the relationship between mathematics and a community's culture. One local cultural practice with potential as a resource for mathematics learning is the mantaa duku' tradition of the indigenous Toraja people. This tradition involves the distribution of meat—derived from buffalo or pigs slaughtered during customary ceremonies—to eligible recipients based on traditional rules passed down through generations. This study aims to describe the ethnomathematical concepts found within the mantaa duku’ tradition and to explain its potential as a context for learning mathematics, particularly regarding the topic of fractions. A qualitative approach utilizing ethnographic methods was employed. Data were gathered through observation, interviews with traditional leaders (Toparengge' and Tominaa), and documentation of the mantaa duku' ceremony. Data analysis followed the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña model, comprising data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the mantaa duku'* tradition embodies various mathematical concepts applied in real-life community settings, including fractions, division, arithmetic operations, ratios, grouping (sets), measurement, and logical reasoning. The concept of fractions is evident in the process of dividing a single buffalo into multiple parts, which are then distributed to recipients according to customary regulations. Beyond its mathematical elements, the tradition reflects cultural values such as fairness, mutual cooperation, responsibility, respect for ancestors, and social solidarity. The findings suggest that the mantaa duku' tradition holds potential as a contextual mathematics learning resource, as it bridges abstract concepts with students' real-world experiences. Instruction that incorporates local culture is expected to enhance the understanding of mathematical concepts while simultaneously fostering students' awareness of the importance of preserving regional culture.

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Publication Details

Journal
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Published
2026-09-12
DOI
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22721479
Primary Topic
Mathematics Education and Pedagogy
Type
article
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article

Ethnomathematics Study on The Mantaa Duku' Tradition of The Toraja Traditional Community As A Context For Learning Mathematics

Carolus Wendi Sampe Salu1*, Suri Toding Lembang2, Inelsi Palengka3
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Mathematics Education and Pedagogy
article

Ethnomathematics Study on The Mantaa Duku' Tradition of The Toraja Traditional Community As A Context For Learning Mathematics

Carolus Wendi Sampe Salu1*, Suri Toding Lembang2, Inelsi Palengka3
article en

Abstract

Ethnomathematics is an approach that examines the relationship between mathematics and a community's culture. One local cultural practice with potential as a resource for mathematics learning is the mantaa duku' tradition of the indigenous Toraja people. This tradition involves the distribution of meat—derived from buffalo or pigs slaughtered during customary ceremonies—to eligible recipients based on traditional rules passed down through generations. This study aims to describe the ethnomathematical concepts found within the mantaa duku’ tradition and to explain its potential as a context for learning mathematics, particularly regarding the topic of fractions. A qualitative approach utilizing ethnographic methods was employed. Data were gathered through observation, interviews with traditional leaders (Toparengge' and Tominaa), and documentation of the mantaa duku' ceremony. Data analysis followed the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña model, comprising data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the mantaa duku'* tradition embodies various mathematical concepts applied in real-life community settings, including fractions, division, arithmetic operations, ratios, grouping (sets), measurement, and logical reasoning. The concept of fractions is evident in the process of dividing a single buffalo into multiple parts, which are then distributed to recipients according to customary regulations. Beyond its mathematical elements, the tradition reflects cultural values such as fairness, mutual cooperation, responsibility, respect for ancestors, and social solidarity. The findings suggest that the mantaa duku' tradition holds potential as a contextual mathematics learning resource, as it bridges abstract concepts with students' real-world experiences. Instruction that incorporates local culture is expected to enhance the understanding of mathematical concepts while simultaneously fostering students' awareness of the importance of preserving regional culture.

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Openalex Percentile: Top 6%
Mathematics Education and Pedagogy
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Ethnomathematics Study on The Mantaa Duku' Tradition of The Toraja Traditional Community As A Context For Learning Mathematics — Carolus Wendi Sampe Salu1*, Suri Toding Lembang2, Inelsi Palengka3 · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS