TRADISI KEABSAHAN PERKAWINAN DI MASYARAKAT MADURA DESA TAMAN SAREH, SAMPANG

This study aims to determine how the Madurese community in Taman Sareh Village, Sampang, interprets the validity of a marriage. In practice, the community prioritizes the validity of a marriage based on religion and customs rather than official registration at a state institution. This study uses a qualitative approach with an interview method with a married couple who married based on Madurese traditions, as well as observations of customary practices that accompany the wedding procession. The results of the study indicate that the Madurese community considers the validity of a marriage to be sufficient if the pillars of marriage are fulfilled, the presence of a guardian, witnesses, and blessings from religious figures such as Kyai. Traditions such as taleh pagher, cer-tacer, and the distribution of ponar cakes are part of the customary process that strengthens the validity of a marriage socially. The phenomenon of unregistered marriage is a real form that religious and customary laws are prioritized, even though they are not registered under state law. This study recommends the need for synergy between traditional values and state regulations, so that the community can maintain its cultural values without losing legal protection administratively.