Coexisting in Faith: The Role of Local Traditions in Muslim-Christian Relations in South Tapanuli
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47655/dialog.v48i2.1223Keywords:
coexisting, local traditions, interfaith harmony, muslim-christian, South TapanuliAbstract
Religious diversity in Indonesia is often associated with tension and conflict; however, South Tapanuli presents a contrasting example of sustainable interreligious coexistence. This study examines how the Batak-Angkola kinship system, Dalihan Na Tolu, functions as a cultural mechanism that sustains harmony between Muslims and Christians. This study employed an ethnographic approach, data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews with 25 informants—including religious leaders, customary elders, community figures, local residents, youth, and students—as well as document analysis and archival research. The findings showed that Dalihan Na Tolu operates through the flexible roles of Mora, Kahanggi, and Anak Boru, which transcend religious boundaries and facilitate inclusive participation in communal events such as weddings (horja siriaon), funerals (horja siluluton), and socio-economic activities. Interreligious harmony is manifested in everyday practices where both Muslim and Christian adherents provide mutual support, including the exchange of food (marjambar), reciprocal support in rituals, and the avoidance of exclusive religious rhetoric—reinforce social solidarity. This study contributes to the broader discourse on social capital by demonstrating that Dalihan Na Tolu generates hybrid forms of bonding and bridging capital, producing what may be termed “embedded pluralism.” Practically, the findings suggest that kinship systems can serve as effective models for peacebuilding in plural societies beyond South Tapanuli.
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