| dc.description.abstract | This study examines the significance of the bowo tradition in Nias weddings,
particularly among the congregation of the BNKP Teladan Medan Church. This
tradition not only holds material value but also represents a cultural heritage that
unites two extended families in social ties. The research was conducted using a
qualitative case study approach through observation, in-depth interviews, and
documentation of the traditional wedding procession.
The results indicate that bowo is viewed as a form of respect for the bride's family
and as a sign of the legality of the marriage according to customary law.
Furthermore, bowo serves as a social bridge, strengthening family ties, fostering a
sense of togetherness, and maintaining community solidarity. However, the high
dowry demands often place an economic burden on the groom and impact their
post-marriage household. Differing views emerge between the older generation,
who maintain the tradition intact, and the younger generation, who seek adjustments
to ensure the tradition is not burdensome.
The discussion of this research confirms that bowo serves both as a socio-cultural
glue and as a potential economic challenge. This tradition remains valuable because
it preserves ancestral identity and values, but it also requires adaptation amidst
social and economic changes. The conclusion is that preserving the bowo tradition
should emphasize not only the size of the dowry, but also its symbolic meaning of
respect and responsibility. After marriage, the lives of Nias people are inextricably
linked to the bowo given during the wedding ceremony. In Nias culture, the bowo
is not merely a token of love or a simple gift, but a symbol of honor, responsibility,
and social status, demonstrating the ability of a man and his family to provide for
and respect the woman.
This research contributes to helping traditional leaders and the Nias community
work together to formulate a more contextualized form of the bowo tradition, for
example by emphasizing the values of togetherness and symbolism. This allows
young couples to build a household without excessive financial pressure while still
preserving their cultural heritage. In this way, the bowo will continue to serve as a
social glue, not a barrier, for future generations. Overall, this research concludes
that the bowo tradition holds profound meaning as a symbol of respect, cultural
identity, and a means of maintaining social solidarity. Despite facing economic
challenges and changing generational values, its symbolic meaning remains a
crucial foundation that must be preserved to ensure its continued viability and
relevance for today's Nias community. | en_US |
