Acculturation of Islamic Family Values and Bengkulu Local Traditions in Forming a Sakinah Family

Supardi Mursalin

 

Abstract: Islam is meant to be universal, with the ability to transform local cultures and traditions according to its own values. The goal in family life in Islam is to create a happy and prosperous family through the realisation of a sakinah (tranquil) household. This article critically evaluates the acculturation of Islamic family values with the local traditions of the Bengkulu community. The analysis in this article reveals that the relationship between Bengkulu people’s traditions and Islamic family values are difficult to separate. The assimilation between Islam and the local culture and traditions gave birth to the acculturation of Bengkulu culture. This acculturation covers almost the entire structure of the Bengkulu community, including family life, starting from attitudes, behaviours, and customs that have been coloured with Islamic values. The process has occurred peacefully and respectfully without friction between the two. The construction of Bengkulu community’s acculturated tradition in realising a sakinah family covers all aspects of family life, i.e., pre-marriage, in marriage, and after marriage.