Pasu-pasu Raja: An Ethical-Theological Study of Marriage Practices among the Batak Toba Community

Abstract

Marriage holds a central role in Batak Toba society, as it not only unites a couple but also strengthens kinship ties and community relations. One form of marriage still practiced today is pasu-pasu raja, a traditional union officiated by customary leaders and socially recognized within the Batak Toba community. This study aims to examine pasu-pasu raja from an ethical-theological perspective, highlighting the dynamics between customary traditions and the church in the life of Parsoburan Tengah. This research employs a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach through interviews, observations, and document studies. The findings show that pasu-pasu raja is understood by the community as a customary legitimacy that preserves family honor and social solidarity. Meanwhile, the church emphasizes the importance of marriage as a sacrament and expression of Christian faith. An ethical-theological analysis using Brownlee’s framework reveals that this practice represents a form of ethical decision-making within the community in response to real-life conditions.