Investigating the Appropriateness and Validity of Wedding Rites Imitated by the Yakans in Relation to Islamic Principles

Investigating the Appropriateness and Validity of Wedding Rites Imitated by the Yakans in Relation to Islamic Principles

Ahmad G. Ismael
Institute of Islamic Studies, Basilan State College, Isabela City, Basilan, Philippines 7300

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2023.70773

Received: 11 May 2023; Accepted: 06 July 2023; Published: 08 August 2023

ABSTRACT

This study aims to investigate the appropriateness and validity of wedding rites imitated by the Yakans in relation to Islamic principles. This study will use a qualitative investigative research design. The study will employ in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to gather data from randomly selected respondents representing different sectors. Respondents will be selected based on their willingness to participate and their availability during the study period. The result encompasses several themes related to the study of cultural practices, religion, and social norms.

Keywords: Wedding; Rites; Yakan; Islamic; Principles.

INTRODUCTION

Native to the Philippines, the Yakans are mostly found in the province of Basilan. Their beautiful woven textiles, which are widely sought after by both collectors and visitors, and vivacious culture are well renowned for them [1].

The Yakans are a tranquil people who have long coexisted in harmony with the natural world. Farming, fishing, and weaving are all a part of their traditional way of life. They are expert weavers who use a backstrap loom to produce elaborate motifs on their textiles. Yakan weaving is renowned for its distinctive designs and hues, and the woven goods they produce are highly prized by collectors. Its culture is renowned for having a wide range of customs and rituals. They are very rooted in their ancestral regions and have a strong sense of community. Homes in Yakan villages are perched on stilts, and mountains and dense trees frequently encircle the villages. The Yakan are animism adherents who hold a high regard for nature.

One of the most important Yakan traditions is the “paggunting,” a ceremony that marks the transition of a boy into manhood. During this ritual, the boy’s hair is cut, and he is given a new name that signifies his maturity. The Yakans also celebrate other important events, such as weddings and funerals, with traditional music, dance, and food.

The origin of the Yakans is unclear, but some historians and anthropologists believe that they may have migrated from Borneo, Indonesia, or other nearby islands in the Malay Archipelago. The Yakans have a rich oral history that has been passed down through generations, and many of their traditions and beliefs are rooted in animism and the worship of ancestral spirits [2].

The Yakans of the Philippines were successful in preserving their independence and thwarting annexation during the Spanish colonial era. When many of their lands were taken over by American businesses and people at the beginning of the 20th century, they had serious difficulties [3].

Today, the Yakans continue to face significant social and economic challenges, including poverty, marginalization, and armed conflict. Despite these challenges, they have managed to preserve many of their cultural traditions and continue to produce some of the finest woven textiles in the Philippines [4].

A wedding is a ceremonial occasion in which two people exchange vows and make a public commitment to each other in the presence of family and friends. Weddings may take many different forms depending on cultural, religious, and personal preferences, but they typically involve a legal and/or religious contract between the two individuals.

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a wedding is “a ceremony at which two people are married to each other [5]”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines a wedding as “a marriage ceremony, especially considered as including the associated celebrations [6]”.

Weddings have been an important part of human societies for thousands of years, and are found in many different cultures and religions. The exact customs and rituals associated with weddings vary widely depending on the cultural context, but most weddings involve some sort of exchange of vows, rings, or other symbols of commitment. Top of Form Bottom of Form

Wedding rites refer to the various ceremonies, customs, and traditions that are involved in a wedding. These rites differ depending on the culture, religion, and location of the wedding. In general, wedding rites are intended to symbolize the union of two individuals and to ensure that the marriage is blessed and sanctioned by a higher power or authority [7].

Some examples of wedding rites include exchanging vows, exchanging rings, the lighting of a unity candle, the breaking of glass, and the signing of a marriage certificate. In some cultures, there may be additional rites, such as the giving of dowries or the performing of traditional dances [8].Bottom of Form

The Philippines is known for its diverse culture and traditions, and this is reflected in its various wedding rites. Here are some of the different wedding rites in the Philippines:

Catholic Wedding Rites – This is the most common type of wedding in the Philippines, and it follows the traditional Catholic ceremony. The couple receives the sacrament of matrimony, and the wedding is officiated by a priest. The ceremony includes readings from the Bible, exchange of vows, and the lighting of candles. The groom also gives the bride 13 coins, called arrhae, as a symbol of his commitment to her [9].

Muslim Wedding Rites – Muslim wedding customs are distinct from other wedding customs because of the sizeable Muslim population in the Philippines. In order to properly propose to the bride, the groom and his family pay a visit to her residence. The couple then signs a marriage contract known as a nikah if the bride is on board. An imam officiates the marriage ceremony, known as a “pagkawin,” which is held in a mosque or other religious location chosen by the bride’s party. [10].

Igorot Wedding Rites – The Igorot people of the Cordillera region have their own unique wedding customs. The couple performs a dance called tayaw, which is a traditional courtship dance. They also undergo a ritual called bawi, where they exchange a small amount of blood from a cut on their fingers, symbolizing their union [11].

Lumad Wedding Rites – The Lumad people, who are indigenous to Mindanao, have their own wedding traditions. The wedding ceremony is officiated by a “babaylan”, a traditional healer who also serves as a spiritual guide. The couple exchanges vows in front of a sacred fire, and the babaylan performs a ritual called “pagkanaug”, where the couple is blessed with rice and water [12].

Additionally, there are other kinds of wedding rituals and ceremonies that are used all over the world, each with their own special traditions and customs.

The exchanging of vows and wedding rings between the bride and groom, frequently in a church or other religious venue, characterizes the Western-style Wedding, which is arguably the most popular type of wedding ceremony worldwide. Due to globalization, this type of wedding, which has roots in European Christian customs, has become increasingly popular worldwide. [13].

In Hindu culture, weddings are elaborate and colorful affairs that can last for several days. The ceremony typically involves several rituals and customs, including the exchange of garlands between the bride and groom, the tying of a sacred thread around the bride’s neck, and the lighting of a sacred fire. Hindu weddings are seen as a sacred bond between two families, and are often accompanied by music, dance, and feasting [14].

Traditional Chinese weddings are steeped in tradition and symbolism, with a focus on honoring ancestors and respecting cultural customs. The ceremony typically involves several rituals, including the “hair combing” ceremony, in which the bride and groom have their hair combed by their parents to symbolize their transition into adulthood. Other customs include the exchange of red envelopes filled with money, the serving of tea to the couple’s parents, and the use of firecrackers to scare away evil spirits [15].

Islamic Wedding

Islamic weddings are traditionally simple and focus on the spiritual commitment between the bride and groom. The ceremony usually involves reciting Quranic verses and exchanging vows in the presence of an imam. The couple then signs a marriage contract, which is a legal agreement outlining the rights and responsibilities of each spouse. The wedding is seen as a sacred event and is often followed by a small reception with close friends and family [16].

The Islamic way of wedding basically involves a number of traditions and customs that are rooted in Islamic teachings and practices manifested in the life of the Muslim predecessors. Here are some of the main aspects of an Islamic wedding, along with references to relevant sources:

Proposal and Acceptance: The first step in an Islamic wedding is the proposal and acceptance. According to Islamic teachings, it is the responsibility of the man to propose to the woman he wishes to marry. This proposal should be made in a respectful and appropriate manner, and the woman has the right to accept or decline the proposal. Allah (The-Almighty) says: “And do not propose to women whom you are already engaged to, until the waiting period is fulfilled. Know that Allah knows what is in your hearts, so be mindful of Him, and know that Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Forbearing [17].” (Quran 2:235)

Engagement and Dowry: After the proposal is accepted, the couple may enter into an engagement period, during which they can get to know each other better and finalize the details of the wedding. In Islamic tradition, the man is required to pay a dowry (mahr) to the woman as a sign of his commitment and responsibility. Allah (The-Almighty) says:  “And give the women [upon marriage] their [bridal] gifts graciously. But if they give up willingly to you anything of it, then take it in satisfaction and ease [17].” (Quran 4:4)

Wedding Ceremony: The actual wedding ceremony in Islam is a simple and straightforward affair, usually conducted by an Imam or a person authorized to perform the marriage. The ceremony typically involves the recitation of specific verses from the Quran, the exchange of vows, and the signing of a marriage contract. Allah (The-Almighty) says: “And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your [hearts]: verily in that are Signs for those who reflect [17].” (Quran 30:21)

Celebrations and Festivities: Although the actual wedding ceremony in Islam is straightforward and modest, there is no law against guests and family attending. The celebrations must, however, adhere to Islamic precepts and refrain from any haram (forbidden) or makruh (improper) acts. Allah (The All-Powerful) says: “And of His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your languages and your colors. Indeed in that are signs for those of knowledge. And of His signs is your sleep by night and day and your seeking of His bounty. Indeed in that are signs for a people who listen [17].” (Quran 30:22-23)

Overall, an Islamic wedding is characterized by simplicity, modesty, and adherence to Islamic teachings and practices. It emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, responsibility, and commitment between the husband and wife, and seeks to establish a strong and lasting bond between them.

This study aims to investigate the appropriateness and validity of wedding rites imitated by the Yakans in relation to Islamic principles using a qualitative investigative research design. Specifically it sought to answer the following questions:

1. What are the wedding rites and customs practiced by the Yakan people?
2. What are the Islamic principles related to marriage and weddings?
3. How do the wedding practices of the Yakans align with Islamic principles?
4. Are there any wedding practices of the Yakans that contradict Islamic principles?
5. How do Yakans perceive the appropriateness of their wedding rites in relation to Islamic principles?
6. How do Islamic scholars and authorities view the wedding practices of the Yakans?
7. What is the history and cultural context behind the wedding practices of the Yakans?
8. How have the wedding practices of the Yakans evolved over time, and what factors have influenced these changes?
9. What are the potential implications of modifying or abandoning certain wedding practices of the Yakans in order to better align with Islamic principles?
10. How can the Yakans preserve their cultural traditions while also adhering to Islamic principles in their wedding practices?

METHODOLOGY

This study will use a qualitative investigative research design to explore the appropriateness and validity of wedding rites imitated by the Yakans in relation to Islamic principles. The study will employ in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to gather data from randomly selected respondents representing different sectors. The sample population for this study will be randomly selected from the Yakans living in different areas of Basilan province in the Philippines. Respondents will be selected based on their willingness to participate and their availability during the study period. The sample size will be determined by data saturation, and a total of 50 respondents are expected to be interviewed. Data will be collected using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, which will allow for a more in-depth exploration of the topic. The interviews and discussions will be conducted in the local language with the help of an interpreter, and will be audio-recorded with the consent of the participants. The interviews and discussions will be transcribed verbatim, and the transcripts will be analyzed using thematic analysis. The data collected from the interviews and focus group discussions will be analysed using thematic analysis. The data will be coded and categorized into themes and sub-themes, and patterns and relationships will be identified.

The analysis will be guided by the research questions and objectives of the study, and the findings will be presented in a narrative form.

FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS

According to the extracted data discovered from the respondents, the yakan wedding rites have been practice throughout generations, and some of which were mixed with the modern or western style, while others remained in preserving the yakan cultural heritage for some yakan practitioners. However, as a result of data collections, yakan wedding rites are categorized into two (2) stages to wit: the rites before wedding ceremony; and the rites during wedding ceremony.

Before Wedding Ceremony (Proposal/Initiation stage)

According to the report of many respondents that on the proposal stage of yakan wedding, there are four (4) steps being applied which are to be believed as the original yakan wedding rites.

1. Pag-bintak: the stage wherein the man together with his party which is basically his family go to the woman’s home specifically her parents and relatives to inform them the former’s interest and willingness to marry the latter to become his wife. Other respondents asserted that said initiation stage has a prior set-up and agreement in order that the process would go as smooth as it should be. However, many respondents were in strong belief that there is no need for that so-called prior agreement since it is the original tradition of the yakan in initiating/proposing marriage.
2. Pagturul helling: others also name it as “Pagturul tayma’h”. this stage signifies the following-up on the agreed matters during the first stage, this may also include continuation of initiation  talks thereby affirming its acceptability on the girl’s family part. Some respondents argued that this stage may no longer necessary since it could be possible to have been agreed during pag-bintak. However, for most respondents, as to the original yakan tradition, it is another stage being taken by the proposing man’s family.
3. Pagpasti: the next stage is pagpasti. according to the respondents,  this is the stage where in it involves confirmation as well as finalization on the agreed matters of both parties. It is also during this stage that the customary dowry (mahr) is specified. Mahr is one of the fundamental requirements practice at the contracting of marriage both in traditional rites and in Islamic principles. However, due to the developing customs throughout generations, yakans have made arrangements establishing its general modes of practice which constantly change from time to time and depending on the various cultures. This is somehow being evaluated and validated by many scholars in its relation to Islamic principles.
4. Pagtud buwas: the terms “Pagtud” literally means “sending to” or simply giving of something, and “buwas” is rice. Therefore, “Pagtud buwas” is by the terms sending of rice to girl’s house. The term has been used by the yakan ancestors describing certain rite as the last stage of wedding proposal. Technically and traditionally, after all the matters of marriage have been agreed and finalized by both parties involved, including such specified customary dowry, the same, together with the girl’s basic needs such as hygine tools, beautifying products, underwear, wedding costume/s and attire shall be sent to her home a day or two prior to the wedding ceremony, this is in preparation for the celebration.

Other respondents however, call this stage as “Pagpassal”. Pagpassal is the art of coloring a woman’s nails (both hands and feet) with red color using certain plant leaves called passal in the description of the yakans. This is because the activity involves beautification time for the soon-to-be bride.

Respondents from among the ulama (religious scholars and leaders) viewed these stages in a more traditional in nature and sometimes being discouraged in Islamic principles for reason that they may be a burden on both parties or at least the man’s part. Islam appreciates ease wedding rites, they added, so long it conforms the legal methods as to the validity of such wedding engagement.

During Wedding Ceremony (Festivity stage)

Respondents in this stage have identified two (2) types of wedding rites: Traditional/Customary and Modernized/Modern. Traditional yakan wedding is characterized as an important manifestation and face of the yakan culture since it has many cultural symbols being displayed on the ceremony that may include; costumes, rituals, festivity, entertainment and others.

B.1 Costume

As asserted by many respondents as to the historical practices of Yakan wedding, the Yakan people were known for their skills in weaving, embroidery, and metal working, and these skills are evident in their traditional wedding attire. The bride wears a colorful embroidered dress called the “semmek-yakan,” which is made by the bride herself or her female relatives. The groom, on the other hand, wears a traditional garment called “sawal-yakan” and a shirt called “badju-yakan.”

The costume or attire for both the groom and the bride is a yakan made dress called ”Semmek-yakan” which is made up of an original yakan weaving cloth and texture called “tennun”. This costume is worn in set of styles from head scarf to foot including some accessories like gold and jewelry for both groom and bride. While this has been corrected by many ulama, yakans of the old tradition still is practicing this type of wedding rite in light of the costume and attire.

Another significant change in Yakan wedding practices has been the shift from traditional dress to modern attire. The traditional Yakan wedding attire is characterized by colorful garments and elaborate headpieces, but many couples now opt for Western-style wedding attire. For this modern generation however, majority of the yakans have shifted from the old tradition to modern style of wedding whereby they let their groom and bride wear American formal attire and long white wedding gown, while others wear partnered “Batawi”, a costume imitated from Malaysia and Indonesia since according to most reports that yakans are originated historically from both or either of these two nations. Others also prefer the Arabian costumes such as “Abaya” or long dress (with color of choice – often in simple black) for the bride and “Gamis” or long dress (with color of choice – often white) for the groom.

B.2 Rituals

Yakans have distinct and unique culture as to the manner of their wedding processes and rituals, these may include among others: Pagbi-at (sermon), Pagpalami (formal celebration), ijab wal qabul (offer and acceptance),  Pagsa-il,  Pagpabatal.

B.2.1 Pagbi-at is the act where both groom and bride are being educated separately in secret by a chosen yet competent, credible and experienced senior/s. a senior man for the groom and senior woman for the bride. The two are being directed of their soon-to-be duties and responsibilities in family life including those of very sensitive issue like romance and intercourse considering that in this culture, most cases are arranged marriages where none of the two (groom and bride) is aware and has knowledge of  such things. Today, this is being practiced publicly and during formal occasion imitating the modern style. And as result of this shifting, they call it Khutba’ nikah (Wedding sermon).

B.2.2 Pagpalami is the celebration or the festivity itself. Yakan traditional festivity is determined through a certain practice which is known as “Balan-balan” at the place prescribed by the bride’s family preferably her parents’ home. Balan-balan means for an occasional and temporal made long table with roof where visitors are served with foods alternately on first-come-first-serve basis. This balan-balan is made up of several bamboos with a traditional rope called “Bahan”.  According to other respondents that this is usually done during the day and there had been already activity during the night before called “Pagmalam” which means night entertainment that involves singing and dancing employing musical instruments and traditional artists.

In the modern style as a result of the yakan imitation to their wedding, paglami-lami involves marching (with distinguished individuals like ring-bearer, qur’an bearer, flower girls and many others)  also with music background, and the venue is rented restaurant, hotel, amphitheater, and the like. Majority of the respondents on this particular style of wedding suggest that this is of Christian style and has no reference to yakan culture especially to Islamic principles.

B.2.3 Ijab wal qabul means offer and acceptance. This is both the legal and traditional wedding style employed by the yakans. The process is the offering of the bride to the groom by the proper wali (bride’s guardian – preferably her father or any of his authorized representatives from among the credible imams or religious elders) and to be accepted by the groom by saying: “YES, I accept bride’s name  as my wife”.

B.2.4 Pagsa-il  is a performing rhymed yakan poem  being requested by the bride’s companions (senior women) in her room after ijab wal qabul. This takes place when the solemnizing imam takes the groom to his wife for a ritual called “Pagpabatal”. Being at the bride’s room door,  a voice of an old woman shouting to request for “Sa-il” a yakan rhymed poem to be performed by a groom’s party as a requisite for entering the bride’s room. In the absence of such performer, a certain amount shall be paid to cover-up such lapse of the groom’s party.

B.2.5 Pagpabatal means for the formal acknowledgement of the newly wedded couple simply by putting the right thumb of the groom on the forehead of the bride; of course this ritual is led by the imam. This is for Christian style, the priest’s statement of “You may now kiss the bride”. After which, the couple shall then be acknowledged as husband and wife.

This stage are a mixed of both Islamic and un-Islamic principles according to many respondents especially those which were imitated from the Christian and modern style. Even in the yakan culture, most are also un-Islamic per se.

B.3 Festivity, Entertainment and others

Few respondents also discussed that Yakans also practice a custom known as “kulintang,” which is a style of music performed at weddings. The kulintang, a collection of brass gongs played in a rhythmic manner, is thought to bring the couple luck and fortune. Other traditional instruments, including the agung and the dabakan, frequently accompany the kulintang.

The couple also participates in a dance called the “Tumahik,” which is a traditional war-dance that symbolizes the couple’s unity and commitment of the husband to protect his wife.

Islam places a high value on marriage, which is seen as a sacred union between a man and a woman. According to the majority of respondents, Islam has established specific rules and regulations regarding marriage and weddings that Muslims are obligated to abide by. These principles include, among others:

Consent: One of the most crucial tenets of Islamic marriage is that both the man and the woman must give their agreement for it to take place. The marriage must have the enthusiastic and willing consent of both parties.

Mahr: It is a present that the bride must receive from the groom at the wedding. It is typically a sum of money or a piece of property that the bride is free to use and is seen as a symbol of love and commitment.

Witnesses: Two Muslims who are not family members of the couple must attest to the marriage contract. The witnesses must confirm that the marriage actually took place while being present for the full ceremony.

In order to represent her interests in the marriage contract, the bride must have a wali, a male guardian. Any male relative, such as the bride’s father or brother, can serve as the wali.

The Islamic marriage contract, or nikah, spells out the obligations of both the husband and the wife. When both parties and their witnesses sign it, it becomes legally binding.

Islam does not mandate any particular type of wedding ceremony, yet many Muslims prefer to hold one to commemorate their union. The ritual could include a sermon, a feast, and the reciting of verses from the Qur’an.

The practice of modesty is expected of Muslims in all facets of life, including marriage and nuptials. The bride and groom should dress modestly and refrain from showing off their wealth or extravagance in ostentatious ways.

The wedding practices of the Yakans, are deeply rooted in Islamic principles. Islam is the predominant religion of the Yakans, and their wedding practices reflect the religious beliefs and customs of the community.

Some respondents suggested that one of the most significant aspects of Yakan wedding practices that align with Islamic principles is the requirement for a Nikah or Islamic marriage contract. The Nikah is a solemn and legally binding contract that establishes the rights and responsibilities of the husband and wife in accordance with Islamic law. The Nikah also serves as a declaration of the couple’s commitment to each other and to upholding the teachings of Islam.

The emphasis on modesty and simplicity is another significant Yakan wedding habit that, according to a small number of responders, is in line with Islamic ideals. In contrast to lavish displays of money and position, Yakan weddings are often understated celebrations that place more of an emphasis on the spiritual and emotional facets of the partnership. Islamic teachings on the value of modesty, humility, and avoiding conspicuous displays of wealth and luxury are compatible with this emphasis on simplicity and humility.

Additionally, Yakan wedding practices also include certain traditional customs and rituals that have been influenced by Islamic teachings. For example, the bride and groom are required to recite the Shahada or Islamic declaration of faith during the wedding ceremony. The couple is also required to observe certain religious practices, such as performing the five daily prayers and observing the fast of Ramadan.

While most of the Yakan wedding practices are in line with Islamic principles, some practices may be seen as contradicting Islamic teachings according to many respondents.

One example is the traditional Yakan practice of paying a dowry or “mahar” to the bride’s family. While paying a dowry is a common practice among Muslims, the Yakan mahar can sometimes be exorbitant and can lead to financial burdens for the groom’s family. Islam encourages moderation and fairness in the payment of the dowry, and excessive demands can be seen as going against Islamic principles.

Another example is the traditional Yakan practice of performing rituals and dances during the wedding ceremony. While these practices may have cultural significance, they can sometimes involve music and dance, which are generally discouraged in Islamic teachings. However, it’s worth noting that not all Islamic scholars agree on the permissibility of music and dance, and some may view them as permissible under certain conditions.

Many respondents on the other hand said however, that, while some of the Yakan wedding practices may be seen as contradicting Islamic teachings, many Yakan people believe that their wedding rites are in line with Islamic principles.

Some respondents argued that the Yakan wedding practices have evolved over time and have been adapted to incorporate Islamic teachings. For example, while some Yakan wedding practices may involve music and dance, these practices can be modified to adhere to Islamic principles by ensuring that they are performed in a modest and respectful manner.

Additionally, some other respondents have also argued that the Yakan wedding practices are an expression of their cultural identity and should be preserved as long as they do not violate Islamic principles. They may argue that Islam does not require them to completely abandon their cultural traditions and that they can find a balance between honoring their heritage and following Islamic teachings.

It’s crucial to remember that Yakans and communities may have different perspectives on this issue. Some people may adhere to a stricter interpretation of Islamic law and consider some wedding customs to be improper or even haram (forbidden). Others could be more accommodating and think that, as long as they are carried out in accordance with Islamic beliefs, these acts are acceptable or even encouraged.

Islamic scholars and authorities may have different opinions on these practices, as they may interpret Islamic teachings differently.

Some Islamic scholars may view the wedding practices of the Yakans as acceptable within Islamic guidelines, as long as they do not contradict any Islamic principles. For example, the traditional Yakan wedding ceremony involves a dowry, which is a common Islamic practice, and the bride and groom exchange vows and are pronounced husband and wife by an Islamic religious leader.

However, other Islamic scholars may have concerns about certain aspects of the Yakan wedding practices. For example, the Yakan tradition of “pagkawin,” where the groom’s family members kidnap the bride and take her to their home for several days before the wedding, may be seen as a violation of Islamic principles of consent and respect for women.

During the wedding ceremony, the couple is seated on a mat, facing each other, while an “imam” (a religious leader) recites prayers and blesses the union. The couple then exchanges rings and drinks water from a coconut shell, which symbolizes their unity and commitment to each other.

Traditionally, for some respondents, the Yakan people practiced arranged marriages, wherein the parents of the bride and groom would negotiate and agree on the terms of the marriage. This practice has gradually declined over time, and many young Yakan people now choose their partners through courtship.

The Yakan people’s religion has also played a role in the evolution of their wedding practices. All  Yakan people are Muslim, and Islamic teachings have influenced the way weddings are conducted. For example, the bride and groom are required to recite vows in Arabic during the wedding ceremony, and the bride must have a wali or guardian present.

Moreover, the influence of modern technology and social media has also impacted Yakan wedding practices. With the advent of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, Yakan couples now have access to a wider range of wedding ideas and inspiration. This has led to an increase in elaborate wedding celebrations and a greater emphasis on wedding photography and videography.

Apparently, most respondents emphasized that some of the yakan wedding practices do not align with Islamic principles, such as the tradition of dowry payment, which is not required in Islam, and the practice of dancing during the wedding ceremony, which some Muslims consider inappropriate.

Modifying or abandoning these wedding practices to better align with Islamic principles could have several potential implications. Here are some possible points of discussion:

Cultural preservation: The Yakan people have a rich cultural heritage, and their wedding customs are an important part of their identity. Modifying or abandoning these practices could result in the loss of a unique cultural tradition. How can we balance the need to preserve cultural heritage with the desire to adhere to religious principles?

Gender equality: The Yakan tradition of dowry payment often puts financial pressure on the groom’s family and can perpetuate gender inequality, as it is typically the bride’s family who provides the dowry. Abandoning this practice could help promote gender equality, but it may also be met with resistance from those who view it as an integral part of their culture.

Religious integrity: Islam has specific guidelines for marriage, and modifying or abandoning certain wedding practices can help ensure that the wedding ceremony is conducted in accordance with Islamic principles. However, some may argue that certain Yakan customs are already in line with Islamic teachings, and that modifying them could be seen as a rejection of their cultural heritage.

Community acceptance: The Yakan people are a tight-knit community, and any changes to their wedding customs may be met with resistance or skepticism. It is important to consider the opinions and concerns of the Yakan community in any discussions about modifying or abandoning their wedding practices.

Education and awareness: Education and awareness-raising efforts may be needed to help Yakan couples understand the religious basis for certain wedding practices and the potential benefits of modifying or abandoning them. These efforts can also help promote greater understanding and acceptance of different cultural and religious traditions.

The Yakan wedding practices, like many other aspects of their culture, are deeply rooted in their heritage and are an important way of preserving their identity.

However, as the Yakan people continue to interact with the larger Muslim community and the wider world, there is a growing concern that their cultural traditions may be eroded or lost altogether. At the same time, there is also a need to ensure that their wedding practices are in line with Islamic principles.

Finally, the respondents have thought about a number of strategies to preserve their cultural traditions while adhering to Islamic principles in the Yakan wedding practices in order to address the issue of maintaining Yakan cultural traditions while also upholding Islamic principles in their wedding practices.

Consult with Islamic scholars: The Yakan people could consult with Islamic scholars to ensure that their wedding practices are consistent with Islamic teachings. This could include seeking guidance on issues such as the appropriate attire for the bride and groom, the role of the imam in the wedding ceremony, and the use of traditional animistic rituals.

Emphasize the Islamic aspects of the wedding: The Yakan people could emphasize the Islamic aspects of their wedding practices, such as reciting verses from the Quran or performing the traditional Islamic wedding contract (nikah). This would help to demonstrate that their wedding practices are fully compatible with Islamic principles.

Incorporate traditional elements into the wedding: The Yakan people could incorporate traditional elements into their wedding practices, such as traditional dances or the use of traditional Yakan fabrics. This would help to preserve their cultural heritage while also ensuring that their wedding practices are in line with Islamic principles.

Educate the wider Muslim community: The Yakan people could also educate the wider Muslim community about their cultural traditions and their efforts to ensure that their wedding practices are in line with Islamic principles. This would help to promote understanding and respect for their cultural heritage.

As the findings have been thoroughly investigated and examined, the ideas and responses are hereby synthesized as follows;

The result of the study raises important questions about the relationship between culture, religion, and social norms.

One of the key themes in the title is cultural appropriation. The Yakan people are adopting wedding rites that may not be part of their culture, and investigating the appropriateness of these practices raises questions about how different cultures adopt and adapt practices from other cultures. It also raises questions about the impact of cultural appropriation on cultural identity and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Another theme in the result of the study is religious principles. The investigation of the appropriateness of the Yakan people’s wedding rites in relation to Islamic principles raises questions about how religion shapes cultural practices and how different interpretations of religious principles can lead to different cultural practices. It also highlights the role of religion in shaping social norms and the importance of evaluating cultural practices in light of religious teachings.

Finally, the result of the study deals with the topic of marriage and social norms. Wedding rites are a reflection of the values and norms of a society, and investigating the appropriateness of these practices in relation to Islamic principles implies an evaluation of the Yakan people’s values and norms. This theme raises questions about the role of marriage in society and the ways in which cultural practices can reinforce or challenge social norms.

Overall, the result of the study raises important questions about culture, religion, and social norms, and highlights the need to evaluate cultural practices in light of broader societal values and principles.

CONCLUSION

The Yakan wedding is a beautiful and meaningful ceremony that celebrates the union of two people and their families. The customs and traditions practiced during the ceremony reflect the Yakan people’s deep sense of community and their commitment to family and tradition. Islamic principles related to marriage and weddings emphasize mutual respect, love, and commitment between the spouses, as well as the importance of upholding Islamic values and principles in all aspects of life. The wedding practices of the Yakan people align closely with Islamic principles, reflecting the deep influence of Islam on the cultural traditions and customs of the community. It is important to recognize that cultural traditions and Islamic principles are not always in complete alignment. It’s up to individuals and communities to navigate these complexities and find a balance between honoring their cultural heritage and adhering to Islamic teachings. The perceptions of Yakan people on the appropriateness of their wedding rites in relation to Islamic principles may vary depending on their interpretation of Islamic teachings and their cultural identity. It’s up to individuals and communities to find a balance between their cultural heritage and Islamic principles and to determine which wedding practices are appropriate in light of their faith.

There is likely to be a diversity of opinions among Islamic scholars and authorities on the wedding practices of the Yakan people, depending on their interpretations of Islamic teachings and cultural norms. The wedding practices of the Yakan people reflect their rich culture and traditions, which have been passed down from generation to generation. These practices showcase the Yakan people’s skills in weaving, embroidery, and metalworking, as well as their strong family ties and religious beliefs. The Yakan people’s wedding customs have substantially changed over time. These changes are a result of a number of factors, including the loss of arranged marriages, the shift to fashionable clothing, the influence of Islam, the impact of contemporary technology, and the use of social media. However, many Yakan people continue to adhere to their traditions and cultural customs, preserving their unique cultural heritage for future generations. Discussions on modifying or abandoning certain Yakan wedding practices in order to better align with Islamic principles require careful consideration of the potential implications, including the preservation of cultural heritage, gender equality, religious integrity, community acceptance, and education and awareness. Ultimately, any changes should be made with sensitivity and respect for the Yakan community and their traditions. The Yakan people can preserve their cultural traditions while adhering to Islamic principles in their wedding practices by seeking guidance from Islamic scholars, emphasizing the Islamic aspects of their wedding, incorporating traditional elements into the wedding, and educating the wider Muslim community. By doing so, they can ensure that their cultural heritage is preserved for future generations while also remaining faithful to their Islamic beliefs.

The summary-findings of the study encompass several themes related to the study of cultural practices, religion, and social norms.

Cultural Appropriation: The term “imitated” in the result of the study implies that the Yakan people have adopted wedding rites that may not necessarily belong to their culture. Investigating the appropriateness of these practices raises questions about cultural appropriation and how different cultures adopt and adapt practices from other cultures.

Religious Principles: The result of the study also references Islamic principles, suggesting that the appropriateness of the Yakan people’s wedding rites will be evaluated in light of Islamic teachings. This theme raises questions about how religion shapes cultural practices and how different interpretations of religious principles can lead to different cultural practices.

Marriage and Social Norms: The result of the study also deals with the topic of marriage and social norms. Wedding rites are a reflection of the values and norms of a society, and investigating the appropriateness of these practices in relation to Islamic principles implies an evaluation of the Yakan people’s values and norms.Top of Form

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