SANTRI EN – Amidst the joyous festivities of Eid al-Fitr, cultural traditions from various regions in Indonesia one such tradition is “Teumuntuk” or “salam tempel” (gift money) practiced by the people of West Aceh, particularly in the Tangan-Tangan District.
This tradition goes beyond simply giving money to newlyweds; it is deeply rooted in meaningful values and heritage passed down through generations.
Teumuntuk: More Than Just Money
The “Teumuntuk” tradition is an integral part of wedding customs in West Aceh. During Eid al-Fitr, newlyweds visit their extended families, both from the husband’s and wife’s sides, to strengthen ties and introduce themselves. On these visits, they carry traditional Acehnese cakes prepared by the wife’s family.
At each house they visit, the newlyweds are warmly welcomed with hospitality. The hosts then present money and clothing to the newlyweds as a token of appreciation for their visit.
This money is not just an ordinary gift; it symbolizes respect, appreciation, and prayers and hopes for their happy and prosperous married life.
Teumuntuk: Strengthening Ties and Preserving Culture
The “Teumuntuk” tradition is not just about money and clothes; it is also about strengthening ties and preserving culture.
When newlyweds visit their extended families, they not only forge closer bonds with relatives but also learn about ancestral customs and traditions. This instills a sense of love and responsibility towards their culture.
Furthermore, this tradition strengthens relationships between families and communities. In the “Teumuntuk” process, the wife’s family sends traditional cake ingredients to the husband’s family, demonstrating cooperation and mutual support. The hosts also welcome their guests wholeheartedly, creating a warm and familial atmosphere.
A Thriving TraditionTeumuntuk
Despite the changing times, the “Teumuntuk” tradition remains a cherished practice in West Aceh. The local community still upholds the noble values embedded in this tradition. It serves as a testament that local culture is still relevant and holds a significant place in modern society.
Profound Meanings Behind the Tradition
The “Teumuntuk” tradition embodies several profound meanings, including:
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Expression of Gratitude: Giving money to newlyweds is a manifestation of gratitude for the blessings of marriage and prayers for their happiness and well-being.
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Symbol of Respect: The money and clothing given represent respect for the newlyweds and their families.
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Strengthening Ties: This tradition provides a platform for newlyweds to establish closer relationships with their extended families, both from the husband’s and wife’s sides.
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Preserving Culture: The “Teumuntuk” tradition is a part of West Acehnese heritage passed down through generations. Carrying out this tradition means preserving the culture itself.
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Motivation: The money given to newlyweds is hoped to serve as motivation for them to build a harmonious and successful married life.
Unique Tradition Practices
The “Teumuntuk” tradition has several unique and interesting stages, including:
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Sending Cake Ingredients: Before Eid al-Fitr, the husband’s family sends traditional cake ingredients to the wife’s family.
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Making Cakes: The wife’s family prepares traditional Acehnese cakes using the ingredients sent.
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Delivering Cakes: The cakes are delivered to the husband’s family 2 or 1 day before Eid al-Fitr.
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Newlyweds’ Visit: On Eid al-Fitr, the newlyweds visit the husband’s family to socialize and pick up the cakes. Inside the cake container, there is usually money and clothing as a gift from the husband’s family to the bride.
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Visit to the Wife’s Family: After visiting all the husband’s family members, the newlyweds visit the wife’s family to socialize.
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Salam Tempel: The hosts give money to the newlyweds in return for their visit.
An Enduring Tradition
Even in the face of changing times, the “Teumuntuk” tradition remains well-loved by the people of West Aceh. It continues to be preserved due to its profound meanings and values that are significant to the community.
The “Teumuntuk” tradition in West Aceh is a practice rich in meaning and cultural value. It is not just about gift money; it is about strengthening ties, preserving culture, and offering prayers and hopes for newlyweds.
The existence of this tradition demonstrates that local culture is still relevant and holds a vital place in modern society.
