THE SOMBALABU TRADITION IN THE TOLAKI TRIBE OF KONAWE REGENCY: AN ISLAMIC LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

This study explores the Sombalabu tradition from the perspective of Islamic law, emphasizing its validity within both customary and religious frameworks. Utilizing an ethnographic approach, this qualitative research aims to understand cultural phenomena within their natural contexts. Informants were selected through purposive sampling and included three Islamic religious scholars and two Tolaki traditional leaders, whose perspectives are essential in capturing the socio-cultural dimensions of Sombalabu. Data were primarily collected through in-depth interviews, focusing on the core essence of the tradition and its relation to Islamic marriage principles. The findings indicate that Sombalabu is not recognized as a valid form of marriage or divorce under Islamic law, due to the absence of a valid marriage contract (ijab-qabul) and the failure to follow the prescribed legalThe Sombalabu Tradition In The Tolaki … - Jumasran, et. al | 195procedures governing divorce. Furthermore, the study reveals that Sombalabu does not meet the criteria of ‘urf shahih (valid custom), rendering it legally void. The ethnographic analysis also shows that the detrimental consequences of Sombalabu outweigh any perceived benefits, making it incompatible with Islamic legal values. Given its potential to disrupt social order and individual well-being, the study concludes that Sombalabu should not be acknowledged as a legitimate practice within Islamic jurisprudence.