Pelirajan

Pelirajan refers to the traditional Indonesian practice of a woman temporarily leaving her husband’s household to reside with her parents or another family member, typically during pregnancy, childbirth, or the early postpartum period. The term originates from the Javanese words *peli* (meaning "to go") and *rajan* (meaning "to return"), reflecting the temporary nature of the separation. This custom is deeply rooted in Javanese and other Central and East Java cultural traditions, where it is believed to provide physical and spiritual benefits for both the mother and child.

The practice is often associated with the belief that a woman should avoid certain activities or stresses during pregnancy and postpartum to ensure a healthy birth and recovery. By staying with her family of origin, she is thought to receive additional support, rest, and protection from male-dominated spaces, which were historically considered energetically or spiritually taxing. Pelirajan also serves as a social ritual, reinforcing family bonds and communal care networks.

While pelirajan is not universally practiced today, it remains a culturally significant tradition in some rural and conservative communities. Modern interpretations may vary, with some families adapting the practice to accommodate contemporary lifestyles. The custom reflects broader themes of gender roles, maternal care, and the interplay between individual and communal well-being in Indonesian society.