Komunikasi dalam Proses Akulturasi Budaya Islam pada Tradisi Merariq Masyarakat Suku Sasak di Kota Mataram NTB

Abstract

This study aims to examine the process of Islamic cultural acculturation within the merariq tradition and the communication patterns employed by religious leaders to integrate Islamic values into this cultural practice. The research adopts a communication ethnography approach with a qualitative method. Data were collected through interviews, observation, and documentation. The findings indicate that the acculturation of Islamic culture into the merariq tradition occurs through the interaction between Hindu-Balinese cultural influences and Islamic values, with a particular emphasis on respect for women. Internalized Islamic values include aspects of aqidah, shari’ah, and akhlaq, which are manifested in elements of the tradition such as the presence of a guardian (wali nikah), witnesses, the conduct of both religious and customary marriage ceremonies, and the giving of a mahar. These values reflect Islamic teachings on marriage, the prohibition of zina, charity, gotong royong, social bonds (silaturrahim), the dignity of women, the husband’s responsibility, the role of humans as khalifah, and the development of familial ties. Religious leaders play a central role through communication patterns that utilize cultural media and community or youth organizations as vehicles for internalizing Islamic teachings. This study underscores the importance of religious figures and cultural communication in the Islamization of local traditions without erasing their original cultural identity.