Symbolic Meanings of Tepak Sirih in Malay Ethnic Weddings Conducted at Desa Mahato Kecamatan Tambusai Utara Kabupaten Rokan Hulu Provinsi Riau

This study aimed to analyze the symbolic meanings of Tepak Sirih in weddings conducted at Desa Mahato Kecamatan Tambusai Utara Kabupaten Rokan Hulu Provinsi Riau, predominantly by Malay community. Descriptive qualitative methods were applied study. Social phenomena occurring naturally described, with aim helping us understand world which we live. The main theory support this is Semiotics. Data collection was through observation, interviews, questionnaires and documentation 20 key informants consisting community leaders, scholars members. There are seven forms Sirih: pinang (areca nut), symbolizes good offspring character, honesty a high degree; kapur (lime), kindness sincerity, but when predicament one will turn aggressive angry; gambir (gambier), determination; tembakau (tobacco), steadfast heart readiness sacrifice for all things; cengkih (cloves), ability maintain reputation; sirih (betel Leaves), patience, brotherhood unity; kacip (scoop used primarily gouging areca mutual agreement making decisions. compulsory wedding objective being achieve happy, harmonious peaceful life bride bridegroom their offspring, line general concept marriage.
 Keywords: honesty, kindness, self-determination, steadfast, reputation, patience