Islamic Cultural Expressions in Traditional Marriage Ceremonies of the Luwu Community, South Sulawesi

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to explore the cultural expressions and acculturation processes between local traditions and Islamic values in the traditional marriage ceremonies of the Luwu community in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. It seeks to identify how religious and cultural elements coexist and influence the construction of social identity and communal harmony within an Islamic cultural framework.

Method: The research employed a qualitative descriptive approach using ethnographic and anthropological methods. Data were collected through direct observation, interviews with community elders and religious figures, and documentation of marriage rituals. The analysis focused on identifying symbolic meanings, cultural continuity, and the integration of Islamic principles into local wedding practices.

Findings: The study reveals that the Luwu community maintains strong cultural traditions while integrating Islamic moral and ritual values into every stage of the wedding ceremony. The acculturation process manifests in symbolic gestures, prayers, attire, and communal cooperation, reflecting both adherence to Islamic teachings and respect for ancestral customs. These practices represent a harmonious blend that reinforces collective identity, social cohesion, and moral values in daily life.

Significance: The findings contribute to the broader discourse on cultural hybridity and the localization of Islam in Indonesia. They demonstrate how traditional ceremonies serve as living art forms that embody both religious devotion and aesthetic expression, offering valuable insights for cultural preservation and intercultural dialogue in contemporary Muslim societies.