Consistency of Dalihan na Tolu vs. Same-Clan Marriage: The Intersection of Customary Law and Islamic Theological Doctrine

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Ryan Taufika, Aulia Rahma Ritonga, Arianto, Noviawan Rasyid Ohorella

2025 Pharos Journal of Theology Vol. 106 Issue SpecialIssue-2 Article Cited by 0 SDG 16SDG 5SDG 17 Quartile

Abstract

This research aims to analyse the interaction between the customary law of Dalihan Na Tolu and the doctrine of Islamic theology in the context of same-clan marriage in the Batak community, which has rarely been explored in depth. The urgency of this research arises from the need to understand how the Batak community manages conflicts between deep-rooted customary values and universal Islamic teachings, especially in the face of modernity and globalisation. This study aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals’ focus on promoting just, peaceful, and inclusive societies (SDG 16). The methodology employed is descriptive qualitative, with primary data collection through extensive literature studies and document analysis related to Dalihan Na Tolu and Islamic doctrine. Secondary data involves a review of literature from related journals, books on Islamic theology, and reports on the social dynamics of the Batak community. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, followed by source triangulation for validation. The results show that there is a complex dynamic between maintaining customary values and adapting to Islamic teachings, with the community progressively seeking ways to integrate and adjust both. The discussion reveals that despite value conflicts, the Batak community demonstrates flexibility in facing changes. Recommendations from this study are the need for a more inclusive and flexible approach in customary and religious policies, and the importance of dialogue between customary and religious leaders to achieve harmonious solutions. This research provides valuable insights into cultural sustainability and social identity in the multicultural context of Indonesia. © 2025 Open Access/Author/s - Online @ http//: www.pharosjot.com

Affiliations

Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia; Faculty of Vocational, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia; Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia; Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Gunadarma, Jakarta DKI, Jakarta, Indonesia

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