Tradisi Rebu Masyarakat Adat Karo Di Desa Kutarayat Ditinjau Dari Perspektif Hukum Islam Al-'Adah Muhakkamah

Abstract

The Rebu Tradition is one of the customary systems governing social relationships within the Karo indigenous community, particularly between sons- or daughters-in-law and their parents-in-law, as well as between brothers- and sisters-in-law of the opposite sex. This tradition serves to preserve ethics, mutual respect, and family harmony. However, modernization and social transformation have influenced its implementation, raising questions regarding its relevance from the perspective of Islamic law. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Rebu Tradition among the Karo indigenous community in Kutarayat Village, Naman Teran District, Karo Regency, and to examine its legal position based on the principle of al-'adah muhakkamah. This research employed a qualitative method with an empirical juridical approach. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews with customary leaders, religious leaders, village officials, and community members, as well as documentation. The collected data were analyzed using data reduction, data display, and descriptive-analytical conclusion drawing techniques. The findings reveal that the Rebu Tradition continues to function as a customary norm regulating kinship interactions through restrictions on specific forms of communication and behavior as expressions of respect and social control. Although its implementation has adapted to contemporary social changes, its fundamental values remain well preserved. From the perspective of al-'adah muhakkamah, the Rebu Tradition fulfills the criteria of a valid custom because it has been continuously practiced across generations, is widely accepted by the community, promotes public benefit (maslahah), and does not contradict the principles of Islamic law. Therefore, the Rebu Tradition can be classified as al-'urf al-shahih (a legally recognized custom), demonstrating that customary law and Islamic law can coexist harmoniously in preserving family ethics, social order, and cultural identity within the Karo indigenous community.