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For the Batak Toba community, the presence of children in marriage symbolizes welfare. Welfare is embodied in the life philosophy known as the 3-H values: Hamoraon (wealth), Hagabeon (descendants), and Hasangapon (honor). The birth of children serves as a solid foundation that supports the other two values—Hamoraon and Hasangapon. Moreover, umpasa (traditional Batak proverbs) play a vital role as a medium of introduction and as an opening gesture in initiating more serious relationships among Batak Toba youth. Umpasa also function as reminders and moral guidelines to prevent relationships between individuals of the same clan (tarito) or with nieces and nephews (tartulang), which are considered improper or taboo. For the Toba community, understanding kinship relations is essential in determining appropriate ways of communication and forms of address. However, in the contemporary context, the childfree phenomenon has emerged in marital life. Those who adopt this view consider the presence of children as an obstacle to achieving welfare. They perceive welfare and happiness as being centered on themselves, and therefore anything that hinders these goals should be set aside.This study aims to analyze the relevance of Batak Toba umpasa values in relation to the childfree phenomenon. Some married couples perceive children as burdens that impede their well-being, whereas within umpasa traditions, children are regarded as symbols and indicators of prosperity. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method through literature review, social media observation (Instagram), and interviews with several Batak traditional leaders. The findings indicate that despite shifts in value orientation, the 3-H philosophy continues to hold ethical significance as a moral foundation for understanding marital welfare in the contemporary era.

Batak Toba, Childfree, Umpasa, Welfare, 3-H Philosophy