Language Performance in Markobar Pabagas Boru Ceremony of The Angkola Society

Abstract

This study aims to describe and analyze the functions and meanings of language performance in the markobar tradition during the pabagas boru customary ceremony of the Angkola community in North Sumatra, Indonesia. As a manifestation of local wisdom, markobar is not merely an act of speaking but a cultural performance that embodies social values, customary norms, and collective identity. This research employed a qualitative descriptive method within an anthropolinguistic framework. Data were analyzed using the anthropolinguistic parameters of performance, indexicality, participation, and valuability through the interrelation of text, co-text, and context. The findings revealed ten major functions of markobar language performance, namely official customary communication, ritual and sacred communication, traditional preservation, customary validation, social and kinship reinforcement, deliberation and negotiation, persuasion, cultural education, verbal artistry, and social harmony maintenance. Furthermore, ten meanings were identified, including requesting permission and blessing, customary marriage validation, unification of extended families, respect for customary institutions, religious values, symbolic meanings, politeness and humility, deliberation and togetherness, cultural identity, and cultural action. The study concludes that markobar functions as a cultural mechanism for preserving Angkola local wisdom by integrating customary values, the Dalihan Natolu kinship system, and Islamic teachings. Through its performative dimensions, markobar contributes to social cohesion, cultural continuity, and community welfare.