Marlojong Married Customary Law in the Angkola Batak Tribe

This paper aims to analyze and explore the marlojong tradition before marriage in the Angkola Batak Region (Madina, Tapsel, Paluta). Marlojong is the act of a couple who are not approved by their parents (guardians) for some reason by running to the house of traditional elders (traditional elders) or respected families. Eloping can reduce the dignity of women and their parents. So, that was the reason for the traditional elders to call them. Data was collected by observation and literature study as well as interviews with couples who performed Marlojong. Research indicates that Marlojong, traditionally seen as a couple fleeing to the home of an elder to circumvent parental reluctance and reduce dowry payments (Parobanan), serves as a customary means to resolve issues without involving religious courts. Despite its negative perception, Marlojong allows young people facing obstacles in finding a partner to navigate challenges posed by guardians and dowry expectations under religious law. However, instances where parents report Marlojong as kidnapping often lead to traditional reconciliation efforts, potentially thwarting wedding plans.