A traditional Karo marriage ceremony known as Mbaba Belo Selambar continues to play a vital role in strengthening family relationships across religious communities in North Sumatra. A 2026 study by Junedi Singarimbun and Pebi Indriani from Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara (UISU) found that both Muslim and Christian Karo communities attach remarkably similar symbolic meanings to the tradition despite differences in religious practice. Published in the Jurnal Multidisiplin Madani (MUDIMA), the research demonstrates that cultural traditions can remain resilient while adapting to modern social and religious contexts.
The findings are significant because Indonesia continues to seek ways to preserve local cultural heritage while promoting harmony among diverse religious communities. The research highlights how indigenous customs can function as a bridge that strengthens social cohesion rather than creating division.
A Living Cultural Heritage of the Karo People
The Karo ethnic group of North Sumatra is well known for preserving ancestral traditions that remain active in everyday community life. One of the most important is Mbaba Belo Selambar, a customary ceremony conducted before marriage negotiations.
Rather than serving as a simple engagement event, the ceremony functions as a structured process of communication between the families of the prospective bride and groom. Through symbolic objects, traditional discussions, and community participation, both families negotiate responsibilities, agree on wedding arrangements, and formally establish mutual commitment.
Although the ceremony has evolved over time, its central purpose remains unchanged: creating harmony, trust, and unity between two extended families.
How the Researchers Conducted the Study
Junedi Singarimbun and Pebi Indriani carried out qualitative field research in Gurukinayan Village, Payung District, Karo Regency, North Sumatra, where both Muslim and Christian Karo communities continue practicing Mbaba Belo Selambar.
The researchers interviewed four carefully selected participants representing religious leaders, village authorities, and community members with direct experience in the ceremony. Information was gathered through:
- Direct observation of cultural activities
- In-depth interviews
- Documentation of traditional practices
The research employed symbolic interactionism as its theoretical framework to understand how people assign meaning to cultural symbols through everyday social interaction.
Traditional Symbols Speak Without Words
One of the study's most important findings is that many objects used during Mbaba Belo Selambar function as powerful communication tools rather than simple ceremonial items.
Among the symbolic objects are:
- Kampil Persentabin, containing betel leaves, lime, gambier, areca nut, and tobacco, representing respect and sincere intentions.
- Cigarettes, traditionally offered as a sign of courtesy and openness for discussion.
- Luah Cimpa, symbolizing hopes for harmony and prosperity in married life.
- Penindih Pudun, representing commitment, responsibility, and the binding agreement between both families.
These objects allow families to communicate values, intentions, and mutual respect without relying solely on spoken language.
The researchers found that every stage of the ceremony carries social meaning understood collectively within the Karo community.
Muslim and Christian Communities Share the Same Cultural Meaning
Although Muslims and Christians follow different religious practices during marriage ceremonies, the study found very little difference in how they interpret Mbaba Belo Selambar itself.
Both religious communities view the ceremony as:
- A respectful introduction between families.
- A process of strengthening kinship.
- A traditional forum for discussion and agreement.
- A symbol of responsibility before marriage.
The primary distinction lies in the timing of the ceremony.
Among Christian Karo families, Mbaba Belo Selambar is generally conducted before the church blessing because it is considered an essential customary prerequisite.
Muslim Karo families are more flexible, performing the ceremony either before or after the Islamic marriage contract depending on family agreement.
Importantly, these procedural differences do not alter the ceremony's cultural significance.
Community Roles Preserve Social Order
The research also highlights the importance of Rakut Sitelu, the traditional Karo kinship structure consisting of Kalimbubu, Anak Beru, and Sembuyak.
Each group performs distinct responsibilities throughout the ceremony.
Kalimbubu are highly respected decision-makers, Anak Beru facilitate communication and resolve disagreements, while Sembuyak provide advice and maintain balance during discussions.
This structured participation allows decisions to emerge through deliberation instead of individual authority, reinforcing cooperation and social stability.
According to the researchers, the system demonstrates how cultural traditions help organize community life while strengthening collective identity.
Tradition Continues to Adapt
The study found that Mbaba Belo Selambar has undergone practical changes over the years without losing its symbolic essence.
In previous generations, the ceremony was typically held at night and involved relatively small gatherings. Today, it may be conducted during the daytime, sometimes on the same day as the marriage ceremony, and often includes many more participants.
These adjustments reflect changing social and economic conditions, including modern work schedules and efforts to reduce wedding expenses.
Despite these modifications, participants continue to regard the ceremony as an indispensable expression of respect, family unity, and cultural identity.
Why the Findings Matter
The research provides valuable evidence that traditional customs can strengthen social harmony in multicultural societies.
As communities increasingly navigate globalization and religious diversity, Mbaba Belo Selambar demonstrates that cultural heritage can remain relevant by adapting to contemporary life without abandoning its core values.
The findings may benefit:
- Cultural preservation programs seeking to protect Indonesia's intangible heritage.
- Policymakers promoting intercultural dialogue and religious harmony.
- Educational institutions teaching local wisdom and cultural communication.
- Anthropologists and communication scholars studying symbolic interaction.
- Community leaders working to strengthen social cohesion across diverse populations.
The research also illustrates how indigenous traditions continue to function as effective systems of communication that build trust, mutual respect, and long-term relationships.
Authors' Perspective
According to Junedi Singarimbun and Pebi Indriani of Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara, Mbaba Belo Selambar should be understood not merely as a marriage ritual but as a meaningful form of cultural communication. Their findings indicate that both Muslim and Christian Karo communities preserve the tradition because it strengthens kinship, facilitates consensus, and reinforces shared cultural identity while remaining compatible with each community's religious beliefs.
Author Profiles
Junedi Singarimbun is a researcher from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara (UISU). His academic interests include cultural communication, symbolic interaction, indigenous traditions, and social communication within Indonesian communities.
Pebi Indriani is a researcher at Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara (UISU) whose work focuses on communication studies, community culture, and the relationship between social interaction, religion, and local traditions.
Source
Article Title: The Symbolic Meaning of Mbaba Belo Selambar in the Cultural Communication Activities of the Karo Tribe: A Comparative Study Among Muslims and Christians
Journal: Jurnal Multidisiplin Madani (MUDIMA)
Publication Year: 2026
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