Social Dynamics in the Determination of Doi Balanca in Bugis Marriage Traditions

Abstract

Artikel ini mengkaji dinamika dan dampak sosial budaya dari praktik Doi Balanca dalam pernikahan masyarakat Bugis, serta cara mempertahankan kesucian pernikahan di tengah perubahan nilai sosial. Menggunakan pendekatan studi kasus kualitatif, data dikumpulkan melalui observasi dan wawancara mendalam. Temuan menunjukkan bahwa Doi Balanca berfungsi sebagai mekanisme untuk memastikan komitmen seorang pria terhadap calon istrinya, dengan jumlah yang dipengaruhi oleh kelas sosial, adat istiadat, peran keluarga, dan komunikasi antar-keluarga. Studi ini mengungkapkan bahwa praktik Doi Balanca berperan dalam menjaga kehormatan dan stabilitas sosial. Namun, penolakan terhadap Doi Balanca dapat menyebabkan konflik, ketegangan emosional, dan isolasi sosial, serta dampak negatif seperti lamaran yang ditolak, menjadi perawan tua, pernikahan lari, dan kehamilan di luar nikah. Oleh karena itu, memahami kompleksitas sosial dan budaya Doi Balanca sangat penting untuk menemukan solusi inklusif guna mengatasi konflik yang muncul.This article aims to systematically examine the social and cultural dynamics of the Doi Balanca practice in Bugis marriage traditions, as well as its impact on the sanctity of marriage amid shifting social values. The primary objective of this study is to understand the function of Doi Balanca as a social mechanism, the factors influencing its monetary value, and the conflicts that may arise from its rejection. This research adopts a qualitative case study approach, employing observation and in-depth interviews. The findings reveal that Doi Balanca is perceived as a symbol of a man's commitment to his prospective wife, with its value and meaning shaped largely by Bugis society’s social constructs. It serves to uphold family honor and ensure social stability, yet the amount is determined by various factors such as social class, customary traditions, the role of the families involved, and inter-family communication. Rejection of this practice may lead to serious consequences, including family disputes, emotional tensions, and social exclusion—often culminating in broken engagements, elopements, or premarital pregnancies. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding the social and cultural complexities surrounding Doi Balanca in order to develop inclusive solutions to emerging conflicts. It recommends strengthening inter-family communication in determining the amount of Doi Balanca and promoting more flexible approaches that mitigate potential conflicts without eroding traditional values.