Manggaraian Marriage in Legal Dualism: Reconciling Customary Law and Church Doctrine

Paulus Tolo; Hendrikus Maku; Afrianus Ampur; Ambros Leonangung Edu

doi:10.55927/mudima.v5i4.159

Authors

Paulus Tolo STIPAS St. Sirilus Ruteng
Hendrikus Maku Institut Filsafat dan Teknologi Kreatif Ledalero
Afrianus Ampur STFT Widya Sasana Malang
Ambros Leonangung Edu Universitas Katolik Indonesia Santu Paulus Ruteng

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/mudima.v5i4.159

Keywords:

Marriage, Canon Law, Manggaraian Costumary Law

Abstract

Every culture has a customary legal system designed to maintain social order, preserve traditions, and strengthen communal identity. In Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), customary values and traditions are passed down through generations, including in traditional marriage practices. However, these local marriage customs often conflict with the regulations of the Catholic Church, particularly the Code of Canon Law (KHK), which serves as a guiding framework for the majority of the Manggaraian people. This study aims to explore the reciprocal relationship between the Code of Canon Law and customary law in Manggaraian marriage practices and how both can contribute to fostering harmonious family life. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing data collection techniques such as literature review, document analysis, and field observations. The findings indicate that both customary law and the Code of Canon Law play significant roles in shaping a prosperous family institution. However, substantial differences between the two legal systems often create tensions in practice. This research seeks to offer a conceptual framework for harmonizing religious and cultural perspectives through open dialogue between Church authorities and customary leaders

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