Gunung Api Karangetang and the surrounding communities.
Karangetang Volcano is one of the active volcanoes, from several active volcanoes in Indonesia. The volcano is located in North Sulawesi province, Siau Tagulandang Biaro Regency, precisely on the island of Siau. Gunung Karangetang has a height of 1827 meters above sea level. Geographically this volcano is located at 02º47 'north latitude and 125º 29' east longitude.
For immigrants, the eruption of Mount Karangetang is frightening, but for the people of Siau the eruption is common.
It is said that according to stories from various sources, before Christianity entered the island of Siau, the Siau people at that time still adhered to animistic beliefs, by worshiping the Aditinggi God who they believed dwelled on the summit of Mount Karangetang. The cause of the Mountain Eruption by the community at that time was believed to be a manifestation of anger from Dewa Aditingi, for the wrong way of life of citizens (committing sins).
After missionary Christianity from the western countries entered the island of Siau, animist beliefs were slowly abandoned by the people at that time, and accepted Christianity as their belief. Not only baptizing citizens, missionaries also baptized the Mount Karangetang with the name John.
However, even though they have embraced Christianity, some of the people of Siau Island today still often associate the eruption of Mount Karangetang with the way of life of citizens. Like for example if someone commits adultery / sin, then the volcano will erupt.
From the agricultural side, volcanic dust released by the Karangetang volcano brings its own blessings. Volcanic dust that falls on the ground is believed by residents to fertilize their crops. Like nutmeg plant which is a superior crop on the island of Siau.
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