MENEGAKKAN KEKERABATAN: STRUKTUR LIMA SAODORAN PADA UPACARA PERKAWINAN ETNIK SIMALUNGUN

Abstract

This article aims to explore and discuss the functioning of the pentagonal structure in Simalungun ethnic marriage. The problem is focused on the relation of the function as a mechanism for establishing kinship between the structures involved. The theoretical reference used is the Radcliffe-Brown structural-functionalism approach. Data collected through field studies and in-depth interviews. The field study observed 5 marriage ceremonies in 5 different regions; Saribudolog, Pematangsiantar, Pematangraya, Sarbelawan, and Limapuluh. The observations focused on structural morphology and physiology while in-depth interviews involving the five structures and the Simalungun Intellectual and Cultural Institute (Partuha Maujana Simalungun), focused on the development of the structure. Data were analyzed qualitatively-descriptive. This study found that the pentagonal structure is a river civilization, a functional analogy for establishing a kinship system. Marriage is not understood as a process of regeneration but the institutionalization of structures as an inheritance of values and norms that are mutually recognized. Novelty studies that marriage is a mechanism for determining 'new mothers' (Inang na Bayu) to perpetuate the function of social structure. Marriage reaches the depth of the structure that functions during the life process in the social world. This study concludes that the social unit in the pentagonal structure is a cultural mechanism that functions to perpetuate it in social life.