The Function of Martonggo Raja in the Saur Matua Tradition in Toba Batak

Authors

  • Febe Elnosa Kasih Prodi Sastra Batak, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia
  • Anggun Yuni Sarah Saragih Prodi Sastra Batak, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia
  • Ginto Sianturi Prodi Sastra Batak, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia
  • Robert Sibarani Prodi Sastra Batak, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia
  • Immanuel Silaban Prodi Sastra Batak, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55909/jpbs.v5i3.1321

Keywords:

martonggo raja, saur matua, tradition

Abstract

Martonggo Raja in the Saur Matua tradition is an important family gathering (Dalihan Na Tolu) to prepare the ideal funeral ceremony for a parent who has died at an advanced age and has many grandchildren. This activity aims to agree on the time, technical details, and division of tasks, often called Pasada Tahi (unifying opinions). This study aims to describe and analyze in depth the role of Martonggo Raja as a forum for discussion and the division of tasks in the Saur Matua traditional ritual, as well as its contribution to the religious dimension and the recognition of customary law. The focus of this study is on the Batak Toba community in North Sumatra. The methodology employed is qualitative, utilizing literature review techniques to explore philosophical values and relevant cultural literature. The findings of this study indicate that Martonggo Raja functions as a democratic deliberative body aimed at reaching consensus (satolop and saoloan) while also serving as a traditional management system through the mechanism of serep ni horja (task division), which enhances the efficiency of ritual execution. Additionally, this tradition possesses a spiritual dimension as a place to offer prayers to Mula Jadi Nabolon and as a means of reconciliation within the family environment. The roles of the Dalihan Na Tolu groups (Hula-hula, Anak Boru, Dongan Tubu) and local leaders provide a crucial foundation of customary law (uhum), ensuring the ceremony’s social and traditional recognition. Overall, Martonggo Raja is crucial for maintaining social stability and preserving the cultural identity of the Batak Toba people.

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Published

2026-05-08

How to Cite

Kasih, F. E., Saragih, A. Y. S., Sianturi, G., Sibarani, R., & Silaban, I. (2026). The Function of Martonggo Raja in the Saur Matua Tradition in Toba Batak. Jurnal Pembelajaran Bahasa Dan Sastra, 5(3), 1937–1944. https://doi.org/10.55909/jpbs.v5i3.1321