The Legitimacy of ‘Urf in Minangkabau Khataman al-Qur’an and Tahlilan Traditions Following Death

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.57255/hakamain.v5i2.1778

Keywords:

‘Urf Legitimacy, Islamic Law, Minangkabau Traditions, Tahlilan Tradition, Qur’anic Recitation

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the legitimacy of ‘urf concerning the Minangkabau traditions of khataman al-Qur’an and tahlilan following death in Nagari Lubuak Gadang Timur, Sangir Subdistrict, South Solok Regency, and to identify the factors influencing their continuity. This study employs field research with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation and analyzed descriptively and analytically using the theory of ‘urf as the primary analytical framework. The findings indicate that khataman al-Qur’an and tahlilan following death are practiced as forms of prayer for the deceased, expressions of respect, mechanisms for strengthening social solidarity, and means of preserving Minangkabau religious and cultural values. Their continuity is influenced by community beliefs regarding the spiritual benefits of prayer for the deceased, the involvement of religious and traditional leaders, the culture of mutual cooperation, and efforts to preserve local cultural identity. The study concludes that these traditions can be categorized as ‘urf shahih because their practices contain public benefits, do not contradict fundamental principles of Islamic law, and contribute to social harmony. The academic contribution of this study lies in strengthening ‘urf-based Islamic legal scholarship by providing an empirical account of how Islamic legal principles interact with Minangkabau adat and local religious traditions. It also demonstrates that culturally embedded religious practices can be evaluated through Islamic legal frameworks without disregarding their social and cultural functions, thereby enriching discussions on the dynamic relationship between Sharia, adat, and community religious practices.

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Published

2026-09-05

How to Cite

Ismail, T., & Burhanuddin, N. (2026). The Legitimacy of ‘Urf in Minangkabau Khataman al-Qur’an and Tahlilan Traditions Following Death. Hakamain: Journal of Sharia and Law Studies, 5(2), 329–340. https://doi.org/10.57255/hakamain.v5i2.1778

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