Perbedaan Pandangan Generasi X dan Z Pada Proses Tradisi Marhusip, Marhata Sinamot, dan Martonggo Raja dalam Pernikahan Adat Batak Toba di Kecamatan Medan Kota

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the differences in views between Generation X and Generation Z towards the traditional marriage tradition of Batak Toba, especially at three important stages, namely Marhusip, Marhata Sinamot, and Martonggo Raja. The main focus is directed at Generation Z’s understanding as the younger generation of the meaning and value of each of these customary stages, as well as how they adapt in the cultural context that continues to change tis the influence of globalization and modernization. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive analysis method. The data collection technique was carried out through in-depth interviews and literature studies, with the research subjects consisting of students of the Batak Literature Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, University of North Sumatra, who are included in the Generation Z category. The results of the study show that there is a shift in meaning in Generation Z's understanding of the three stages of marriage customs. Marhusip is no longer understood as a sacred deliberation between families, but only as a formal meeting where meetings between families can be done via telephone. Marhata Sinamot is an event that was carried out as a form of appreciation for the parents of women given by the male side and is now interpreted as a contribution to the cost of the traditional party. Martonggo Raja the procession of the male party to prepare for the traditional party and the big family deliberation, is now more ceremonial. Changes in consumption are also often burdensome for men because all costs are borne by them. Generation Z adapted the Toba Batak wedding tradition selectively and pragmatically, maintaining a procession that was considered functional. This surface understanding of culture risks leading to deculturation, where customs become mere formalities without meaning. Therefore, tis necessary to make efforts to revitalize culture in a participatory and interactive manner, and cultural education that is more contextual and a multigenerational approach so that the Toba Batak wedding customs continue to function as social glue and do not lose their essence in the midst of modernization.