A Critical Analysis of the Bugis Wedding Tradition 'Passampo Siri

Al-Mujtahid: Journal of Islamic Family Law Vol. 4, No. 1 (2024): 12-22 Website: http://journal.iain-manado.ac.id/index.php/al-mujtahid ISSN 2809-0756 (online) ISSN 2809-2805 (print) A Critical Analysis of the Bugis Wedding Tradition 'Passampo Siri Ridwan Jamal Faculty of Sharia, Institut Agama Islam Negeri Manado, Indonesia, Jl. Dr. S.H. Sarundajang, Kawasan Ringroad I, Malendeng, 95128 E-mail: Asandi Mitra Faculty of Law, Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia, Jalan Cabe Raya, Pondok Cabe, Pamulang, Tangerang Selatan 15437 E-mail: ABSTRACT This paper examines the Passampo siri’ tradition (marriage of disgrace) in the Bugis community through paradigmatic analysis using the framework of Critical Theory. The research method used is a literature study to collect data from relevant literature sources. The data were analyzed qualitatively with a paradigmatic approach to achieve contextual and in-depth meaning related to the philosophical background of Passampo Siri’ and its implications for his abolition discourse. The results of the analysis show that Passampo siri’ is actually a socio-cultural entity born from the habitus of the Bugis people towards the concept of self-esteem (siri') as a core value. Removing them without a contextual understanding can threaten the integrity of the values that have been upheld and closely guarded so far. Therefore, this case reminds us of the importance of reflective attitudes and multidimensional analysis before deciding to "break" a tradition that is considered purely irrational. This research seeks to integrate epistemological reflections from critical theory in understanding the Passampo siri’, highlighting how power structures, ideologies, and social norms shape and influence those cultural practices. This study emphasizes that the abolition discourse must consider the historical and social context behind this tradition. The results of this study provide insight that cultural reform requires an approach that respects the complexity and richness of local values, while opening up a space for constructive critical dialogue. Keywords: Passampo Siri’; Critical Theory; paradigmatic analysis. 12 Al-Mujtahid: Journal of Islamic Family Law Vol. 4, No. 1 (2024): 12-22 Website: http://journal.iain-manado.ac.id/index.php/al-mujtahid ISSN 2809-0756 (online) ISSN 2809-2805 (print) INTRODUCTION The Passampo siri’ marriage tradition, or marriage covering disgrace, in Bugis society is a social fact that reflects cultural values and complex social structures. Passampo siri is a practice in which couples involved in situations that are considered embarrassing or damaging to the family's self-esteem get married to maintain the honor and dignity (siri') of the family (Hartono & Lestari, 2022). In the context of Bugis society, siri' is a core concept that defines the identity of individuals and communities. It serves as a strict social norm, demanding adherence to certain moral and ethical standards (Ipandang & Darlis, 2022). This social fact shows how the values of honor and self-esteem are constructed and maintained through social mechanisms such as marriage (Joesoef, 2020). In addition, Passampo series shows the dynamics of power in society, where important decisions are often made by influential figures to maintain social stability and family reputation. This practice not only impacts the individuals involved but also the broader social structure, showing how social norms and power are intertwined in shaping people's behaviors and life choices (Rusni & Ridwan, 2021). Habermas (2015) reveals that the tension between tradition and modernity, where discourses on human rights and gender equality begin to challenge practices that are considered archaic or unfair. Tami (2018) in her research found that there is no more important purpose or reason for life for Bugis-Makassar people than to maintain their self-esteem (siri'). Yudono et al. (2016) also concluded that the concept of 'siri' is a socio-cultural value system about the personality of the Bugis people. Siri' as self-defense and dignity of individuals and members of the Bugis community (Sawaty, 2021). This means that it is important to understand the historical and cultural context in assessing social practices, as well as the need for a sensitive and in-depth approach in formulating social policies related to local traditions and values. The Passampo siri marriage tradition, or disgraceful marriage, is a significant social fact in Bugis society, reflecting cultural values and complex social structures. Passampo siri is a practice that aims to cover up disgrace and maintain family honor through arranged marriages. In this context, siri' (self-esteem) became a core concept that was highly valued and maintained through various social mechanisms, including the Passampo series. Siri' includes aspects of honor, dignity, and self-esteem, becoming the moral foundation for individual actions and behaviors in Bugis society (Safitri & Suharno, 2020). Violations against siri' are considered a major disgrace that must be addressed immediately to avoid embarrassment and wider social repercussions (Badewi, 2019). Existing research shows that Passampo Siri shows how power in Bugis society is held by patriarchal structures, where important decisions are often made by male elders or heads of families (Syamsia et al., 2023). This indicates the existence of strict social control and power structures that maintain traditional cultural norms. In the modern era, traditions such as the Passampo series are increasingly receiving critical attention from the perspective of human rights and gender equality, sparking debate about the relevance and impact of these practices in a 13 Al-Mujtahid: Journal of Islamic Family Law Vol. 4, No. 1 (2024): 12-22 Website: http://journal.iain-manado.ac.id/index.php/al-mujtahid ISSN 2809-0756 (online) ISSN 2809-2805 (print) changing social context. There have been attempts by various parties to remove or modify this practice on the grounds that it is contrary to the principles of modernity and social justice. However, the elimination without a contextual and in-depth understanding of the values behind this practice can threaten the integrity of the values that have been upheld and closely guarded so far. Analysis of the Passampo series often does not place enough emphasis on epistemological reflection on how the concept of the series is constructed and used to maintain a particular social structure. Therefore, it is important to integrate a critical approach in understanding and evaluating these sociocultural practices. Most of the research on Passampo series focuses on describing the traditions and cultural values that surround it without in-depth examining how the underlying power structures and ideologies operate. A critical theoretical approach can fill this gap by uncovering the dynamics of power and domination involved. Many studies do not provide a sufficiently in-depth analysis of (...truncated)