Meaning of the term cohabitation and views from a cultural and legal perspective

Illustration of kebo gathering (Byrdyak-Freepik Image)

YOGYAKARTA - The term "kumpulsing kebo" is one of the expressions that is often used in daily chats in Indonesia, especially when referring to relationships that are not in accordance with traditional people's norms. In simple language, the meaning of the term kebo gathering refers to circumstances where lovers or couples of the opposite sex live together like husband and wife, but without a legal marriage bond. This designation has long been known in Indonesian culture, although it has so far caused controversy, both from a social, cultural, or religious point of view.

literally, the word "kumpulse" or "stay together" means, while kebo is a word in Javanese which means "smooth". If that means literally, kebo gathering can be referred to as "collecting like buffalo". This phrase actually has a negative connotation, considering that buffalo are animals that are considered to have no rules or norms in pairs. Therefore, this designation is used as an illustration to describe a human couple who lives together without marriage, which is considered not to follow social or religious rules.

In Indonesian society where most are religious, social norms regulated by religion and culture are very strong. Marriage is seen as a legal and sacred bond, which is legalized either religiously or by state law. Therefore, living together without marriage, as happened in the Kebo gathering, is considered to violate these values.

Cultural Perspectives and Social Norms

The meaning of the term kebo gathering is closely related to the social norms that apply in Indonesia. In traditional society, living together without marriage is considered as a matter that is not in accordance with custom. Couples who apply this often get negative views from local residents. In society that upholds religious values, such as Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and other religions in Indonesia, marriage is considered as a sacred relationship that must be passed before 2 people live together.

One of the reasons why this designation has a negative stigma is that marriage in Indonesia is not only seen as a personal relationship between 2 individuals, but also ascribes the extended family and is considered a symbol of honor. When a couple chooses to live together without getting married, this is often considered to defame the family, especially in society with strong traditional values.

However, in recent decades, the phenomenon of kebo gathering has begun to appear more common in several urban community groups, especially among the younger generation. This phenomenon could occur because of changes in views on the values of marriage and the influence of foreign culture, where bonds without official relationship have been more accepted. Some people who choose to live together before marriage argue that this matter is a way to get to know a partner better before deciding to move on to the path of marriage.

Legal Perspective

From a legal point of view, the meaning of the term Kebo gathering also relates legality considerations. In Indonesia, marriage is regulated in Marriage Law No. 1 of 1974, where every couple who wants to get married must register their marriage legally, either for religious law or state law. Living together without marriage is not legally recognized and does not provide legal protection for these couples. For example, in terms of inheritance rights, child custody, and shared property, relationships without marriage do not have a clear legal basis.

Not only that, living together without marriage in several regions in Indonesia can lead to social or even customary law sanctions. In some indigenous communities, couples who live together without marriage can be subject to fines or social sanctions in the form of exclusion from the community.

Although state law does not explicitly regulate the prohibition of living together without marriage, there are several provisions that can provide legal implications for couples gathering together. As an example, in some cases of disputes over children's rights or property, couples who are not bound in legal marriage may experience difficulties in obtaining legal protection.

The Phenomenon Of Modernization And Public View

Along with the growth of the times and modernization, views on the meaning of the term kebo gathering have also begun to shift, especially in urban communities. Some people, especially the younger generation, began to see the phenomenon of kebo gathering as a personal choice and part of individual freedom. However, on the other hand, there are still many groups of people who always adhere to traditional and religious values, thus rejecting this form of ties.

The debate about kebo gathering reflects tensions between tradition and modernity in Indonesia. For some people, bonds without marriage are a form of freedom and progress in terms of thought. But for most of the others, this is considered a form of moral degradation that damages social order.

In addition, to increase insight regarding the discussion above reading as well: The Phenomenon of Kohabitation Increases in Indonesia, because Marriage Is Considered Complicated

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