Communication Ethnography in the Clan Tradition at Batak Toba Wedding Ceremonies in Kupang City

Abstract

The Mangain tradition carries significant meaning in the context of Batak customary weddings. This ritual is not merely about conferring clan names, but is also a ritual process. It involves mapping the elements of communication, such as setting and scene, participants, ends, act, key, instrumentality, norms, genre, and analyzing the structure and patterns of communication that emerge in the implementation of the Mangain Marga tradition at Batak Toba weddings in Kupang City through a communication ethnography approach. The Mangain Marga tradition in Batak Toba weddings in Kupang City is a cultural manifestation that is extremely rich in communication symbols, both verbal and nonverbal, which function not only as a medium for conveying messages, but also as a reinforcement of social identity and a preserver of cultural values passed down through generations. Verbal communication in this tradition uses customary kinship terms that carry meanings far deeper than merely naming or stating the position of family members. Terms like tulang, hula-hula, boru, and dongan tubu clarify social roles and status within the customary structure that must be respected and upheld by every family member