Comparative Study of Islamic Inheritance Law and Customary Inheritance Law in the Community in Natal District, Mandailing Natal Regency

Abstract

The inheritance law system applicable in Indonesia consists of Islamic inheritance law, customary inheritance law, and civil inheritance law, each of which is influenced by the kinship structure of the community. The indigenous community of Sumando Ranah Nata in Natal District, Mandailing Natal Regency, adheres to a matrilineal kinship system in which daughters become the primary heirs and controllers of family inheritance. This study aims to analyze the justice of women's rights as the main heirs in the customary inheritance distribution system of the Sumando Ranah Nata community and to examine its conformity with Islamic inheritance law. This research employs a normative juridical method using secondary data derived from legislation, books, scholarly opinions, internet sources, and other relevant legal materials. Data were collected through document study and analyzed qualitatively. The findings show that Islamic inheritance law determines inheritance shares based on the degree of kinship, where closer relatives receive larger portions. In contrast, the customary inheritance system of Sumando Ranah Nata prioritizes daughters as the principal heirs, while sons only receive inheritance if granted voluntarily by the daughters. Despite these differences, the implementation of inheritance distribution within the community emphasizes harmony, deliberation, and togetherness in reaching consensus. In conclusion, the customary inheritance system of Sumando Ranah Nata reflects a matrilineal cultural tradition that differs from Islamic inheritance principles, yet its practice seeks to maintain social harmony and may coexist with Islamic values through consensus-based inheritance distribution.