The Myth of Sitting in Front of a Door in Javanese Culture: Can It Really Hinder One's Romantic Fate?
A myth is a narrative passed down through generations that usually relates to the daily life of a community. In Javanese culture, there are numerous myths consisting of various prohibitions. One that is fairly well known is the restriction against sitting in front of a door.
When parents see someone or a child sitting in front of a door, they often instruct them to move. This prohibition is frequently accompanied by the message that the habit of sitting in front of a door can make it difficult for a person to find a life partner.
This myth continues to be believed by a significant portion of society, particularly in Java. The question is: can sitting in front of a door truly hinder one’s romantic fate? Read the following explanation to find the answer.
The Myth of Sitting in Front of a Door
The myth about sitting in front of a door is believed to originate from the tradition of treating the door as an important part of the home. In Javanese culture, the door carries symbolic meaning as the pathway through which sustenance, guests, and other good fortune enter.
Sitting in the doorway is believed to obstruct this flow of sustenance. The habit of blocking the door is thought to prevent good things from coming, including romantic prospects. This is why the myth of sitting in front of a door is often linked to one’s romantic fate being obstructed and never drawing near.
Although it may sound illogical, the development of myths among the community does not arise without reason. In a journal article titled ‘Myths in Community Beliefs’ by Nasrimi, it is noted that myths form part of a nation’s history and culture. Generally, such myths contain values aimed at fostering good attitudes, such as instilling courtesy, promoting health, appreciating beauty, strengthening friendships, and other social values.
Similar values are also contained in the myth of sitting in front of a door. From a cultural perspective, sitting in the pathway of a home’s entrance and exit can disrupt activities, especially when guests arrive. Ensuring smooth access to the door is one form of courtesy, particularly within Javanese etiquette. This is why habits deemed disruptive are typically discouraged.
The myth of sitting in front of a door, accompanied by belief elements such as obstructing romantic prospects, is considered easier to remember and apply by many people. Through myths, predecessors attempted to embed teachings about etiquette and courtesy. This is what has allowed the myth to persist across generations.
The Connection Between the Myth of Sitting in Front of a Door and the Teachings of the Ta’lim Muta’alim Scripture
The prohibition against sitting in front of a door cannot be understood merely as an unfounded belief. This myth is also closely related to the values of adab (Islamic etiquette) in Islamic faith. One scripture that discusses ethics and proper conduct is the Ta’lim Muta’alim, written by Sheikh Az Zarnuji.
In this scripture, as cited in the thesis ‘The Myth of Eating in Front of a Door: A Hermeneutic Perspective’ by Afif Ainun Nashir from UIN Sunan Ampel, sitting in front of a door is categorised as one of the things that keeps sustenance away. This understanding aligns with the analogy that sitting in front of a door can obstruct others’ access. Ultimately, both beliefs converge on a similar moral message: maintaining proper conduct and respecting shared spaces without obstructing others’ interests.
The Myth Prohibiting Eating in Front of a Door
It is not only sitting that is prohibited in front of a door, but also eating. According to the book ‘The Myths: Graffiti’ by Kiki Intan Widyasari and others, eating in front of a door is believed by some Javanese people to drive away one’s romantic prospects.
This myth about eating in front of a door emphasises the aspect of ora ilok (not proper). The exact time of its emergence is uncertain, but it is believed to have existed since ancient times.
Widyasari explains that this myth is closely related to the absence of modern schools as they exist today. For this reason, parents taught their children through intimidation.
Fundamentally, the prohibition against eating in front of a door aims to teach children to possess good ethics and behaviour. Indeed, eating in front of a door, regardless of the myth, is certainly not good because it obstructs people’s access in and out of a space, is it not?
So, can sitting in front of a door prevent one’s romantic prospects from coming? The answer depends on each individual’s belief. We hope this adds to your knowledge!