<![CDATA[This study examines the tradition of compulsory walimatul 'ursy for married couples before living together in Nagari Abai Siat, Dharmasraya Regency. Although Islamic law recognizes a valid marriage as sufficient to establish the rights and obligations of husband and wife, the local customary law prohibits legally married couples from cohabiting until they have held a wedding feast (walimatul 'ursy). This study aims to analyze the implementation of this customary practice and evaluate its legal position from the perspective of maslahah in Islamic law. The research employed a qualitative field research method using empirical-sociological and normative legal approaches. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving traditional leaders (niniak mamak), religious scholars, community members, and local government representatives. The data were analyzed descriptively through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the tradition is consistently maintained as a means of preserving family honor, strengthening social solidarity, obtaining public recognition of marriage, and preventing social stigma within the community. From the perspective of Islamic law, however, walimatul 'ursy is classified as a highly recommended sunnah rather than a legal prerequisite for marriage or cohabitation. Therefore, the tradition may be regarded as a form of maslahah because it promotes social harmony and communal welfare, provided that its implementation does not impose excessive financial burdens or create hardship for the couple. Accordingly, this customary practice remains acceptable as a local tradition insofar as it supports the objectives of Islamic law (maqasid al-shariah) without contradicting its fundamental principles.]]>
