Islamic Studies

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https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14576/12

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Open Access
A Decade of Charitable Crowdfunding and Its Impacts on the Social Justice Trajectory of Islamic Philanthropy in Indonesia
(Society for South-East Asian Studies, 2023-12-31) Bhirawa Anoraga
This article aims to investigate the development of charitable crowdfunding and its impacts on Islamic philanthropy and its social justice trajectory in Indonesia. As the largest Muslim country in the world, Indonesia has thrived and undergone some legal and programmatic revolutions to promote social justice through Islamic philanthropy. However, this study demonstrates that the rapid growth of charitable crowdfunding in the last decade has some impacts on the social justice trajectory of Islamic philanthropy, particularly in the areas of inclusivity, sustainability, and governance. This study draws from the case of Kitabisa, the largest crowdfunding platform in Indonesia, by conduct-ing interviews with the founders and users and observing their online interactions on the platform and social media. This study also collects data on Muslim philanthropic Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that actively used Kitabisa to raise funds, with special attention to Aksi Cepat Tanggap (ACT), one of Indonesia's largest Muslim philanthropic NGOs. This study found that the trend of crowdfunding has amplified the inclusive space in Indonesian philanthropy where Muslim NGOs actively provide social services and enact collaborations with non-Muslims. However, through crowdfunding, Muslim NGOs have become more accommodating toward short-term social programs or ‘charity’. The crowdfunding trend has also raised accountability and transparency issues in Indonesian philanthropy. This study argues that the broader involvement of grassroots actors, either individuals or informal communities, through crowdfunding explains its impacts on Indonesian Islamic philanthropy’s trajectory for social justice.
Open Access
A study of Fatwa-making : Indonesian Ulama Council (Majelis Ulama Indonesia, MUI) and classical Islamic discourse on interfaith marriages
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Muhammad Arrafii; Syafiq Hasyim
The issue of interfaith marriage has become a religious polemic that continues to exist in society. In Indonesia, the Indonesian Ulama Council (or Majelis Ulama Indonesia) has issued fatwas banning religious differences since 1975, 1981, 1986, until 2005. All of which prohibit the marriage of Muslim men with non-Muslims. Interestingly, the MUI's fatwa opposed the majority of classical scholars, because Muslim men with non-Muslim women are permissible in classical literature. On the other hand, Muslim communities in Muslim-majority countries have progressively transcended racial, religious, and social differences. The rate of interfaith marriage in Muslim countries is increasing due to globalization, which has raised such controversial issues that some contemporary scholars have reinterpreted the issue based on understanding the related scriptural text. However, this study will examine the interfaith marriage of the MUI fatwa by reviewing the views of classical scholars on the issue. This study aims to answer questions about: first, how legal doctrine proposed by classical scholars and contemporary scholars is; second, the background to the MUI fatwa and the basis for the arguments presented; and third, the dynamics of the emergence of interfaith marriage rules in Indonesia. This study compared Islamic legal tradition with MUI fatwa arguments in its analysis. This study employs classical Islamic literature such tafsir books, the book of comparative figh madhhab (or schools), and MUI's document related to the study's topic. However, this research revealed that the Islamic legal tradition has influenced the formulation of the fatwa-making on interfaith marriage from the MUI'S standpoint, which disregarded modern viewpoints when examining the interfaith marriage issue. This study adds to the body of information or range of perspectives on the subject of interfaith marriage.
Embargo
A study on Islamic values evolution in sekolah Islam terpadu (integrated Islamic school)
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Farah Hasballah; Nakissa, Aria
This study aims to analyze the evolution of the integration of Islamic values within the Integrated Islamic School Network (Jaringan Sekolah Islam Terpadu, JSIT) curriculum book (Standar Mutu). JSIT serves as a network or organization and not as an educational institution. The JSIT curriculum initially included Hadiths and Quranic verses, emphasizing Islam's fundamental writings and Muslim Brotherhood leaders' contributions to Indonesia's independence. However, recent editions have shifted to integrating nationalism with Islam, aiming for a more inclusive and centrist approach. This study examines the changing landscape of Islamic education under JSIT, which includes 2568 Islamic schools in Indonesia. Understanding these changes is crucial for Indonesia's educational environment. The methodology employed within the curriculum of JSIT from 2003 to 2023, is by focusing on the revisions made to the “Standar Mutu” book across five editions. To make sense of the shifts in the "Standar Mutu" course outline, I'll be drawing on Gunes Tezcur's Moderation Theory. This theory posits that organizational resources, free electoral competition, and governmental repression are the three causal forces that impact change. I want to find out which of these routes impacts the JSIT school curriculum revisions. This was due to the political conditions at that current time, the meaning of Pancasila and nationalism were no longer used as tools to gain power by the government, so JSIT also did not keep its distance. Apart from that, because JSIT wants to be more relevant with elements of "kekinian" (which is in accordance with the times) and "kedisinian" (local). This is considered important for JSIT, because with a total of 2568 schools under JSIT's responsibility, there are also schools that are apolitical and commercial and they also have the same principles as JSIT to combine Islamic values into the subjects taught. This study sheds light on the relationship between nationalism and Islamic principles, which helps to explain the dynamic curriculum changes in Indonesian Islamic education. It demonstrates the relationship between religion and the state, the application of moderation philosophy, and the global impact on Islamic education.
Embargo
Absent husband between tradition and modernity : examining the implementation of Islamic family law in contemporary Indonesia
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Inna A’thoina; Zezen Zaenal Mutaqin
This thesis examines the status of absent husbands in contemporary Indonesia from a socio-legal perspective, which demonstrates the dynamics in determining the law between classical Islamic law and the modern legal system on the implementation of family law that occurred when applied in a modern context. This research with a socio-legal approach employed an integrated method between normative juridical legal research by obtaining court decisions from the last five years (2020-2024) to make it relevant to current conditions and statutory documents as primary data and empirical juridical research by conducting an in-depth interview, consisting of an abandoned wife of the absent husband and the lawyer who dealt with this case. This study presents two key arguments: First, the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI) in Indonesia, intended to codify and unify Islamic law, has not adequately addressed the issue of absent husbands, leading to varied judicial interpretations and potential legal injustice, unlike the clear guidelines provided by classical Islamic jurisprudence. Second, the common waiting period of two years for an abandoned wife to file for divorce in absent husband cases appears to be related to the form of "taklik talak" (a unilateral divorce declaration by the husband) that has existed since the Dutch colonial era. The research also highlights the significantly higher number of "ghaib" cases (where the wife files for divorce due to the husband's disappearance) compared to "mafqud" cases (where the court determines the legal status of a missing person) in Indonesia over the last five years, with a 10% increase in divorce rates during 2020-2021 due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study contributes to the scholarly discourse on the evolving nature of Islamic family law in the face of modern challenges, emphasizing the need for a more holistic and comprehensive approach that combines formal legal requirements with a deeper understanding of the underlying social and ethical issues to achieve greater equality and justice for abandoned wives in absent husband cases.
Open Access
Acces to Islamic education in Afghanistan : female Madrasa under the rule of the Taliban
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Adel, Samiullah; al-Marakeby, Muhammad
Madrasa is designed for young Muslims to receive education on Islamic subjects such as Fiqh, Quran, and Hadiths. In this connection, Madrasa can be seen as a vast ground for promoting Islamic education and equipping students with extensive knowledge of Islam. Madrasas teach an Islamic system of principles based on established standards and laws of behavior in Afghan society. On the other hand, Madrasas remains to serve both male and female students in almost all Muslim countries. Afghanistan as a Muslim country also established a female-only Madrasa. Women choose a madrasa for actively imparting Islamic knowledge to young Muslim boys. The research investigated female access to madrasa after the takeover of the Taliban in Afghanistan. Under the Taliban's control, Afghan women who attend madrasas have particularly struggled to get access to Islamic education. Taliban's regime keeps gender inequality alive by reducing the chances for women to advance personally, gain economic independence, and actively participate in society. Nevertheless, this thesis argues that it is simplistic to think of the Taliban as the main reason for depriving women of getting educated. I suggest here that the issue of women's access to education in Afghanistan is more multi-layered and sophisticated than what we used to assume. The thesis primarily suggests two points: first, it is problematic to think of the whole of Afghanistan as a homogenous place where every city and village has the same reason for not allowing women to receive an education. Second, it is reductive to think of the problem from a state-centric perspective as if the problem is only about law.
Open Access
al-Ḥarāk al-ṣūfī wa al-da’wah al-insānīyyah fī Indūnīsīyā: Ḥālah al-Ḥabīb Abī Bakr al-’Aṭṭās al-Zabīdī
(Center for the Study of Islam and Society (PPIM) Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University (UIN) Jakarta, 2024) Syamsul Rijal; Musa Alkadzim Alhabsyi
Studies on Ba'alawi preachers in Indonesia have predominantly focused on popular figures who utilize new media and popular culture in their preaching to appeal to young Muslims. However, there has been a lack of attention given to Ba'alawi preachers who avoid publicity and prioritize humanitarian activities. This article examines the case of Ḥabīb Abū Bakr al-‘Aṭṭās al-Zabīdī (popularly known as Abuya/My Father by his followers), who has garnered a significant following across several Indonesian provinces. His followers regard him as a generous, peace-oriented Sufi who not only advocates for spreading peace and kindness but also embodies these values through humanitarian acts towards those in need, regardless of their religion or ethnicity. This article explores his mobility in business and da'wah across Indonesia and analyzes the methods he uses to distribute charities and empower Muslim communities. The case of Habib Abubakar demonstrates that Sufism transcends mere individual asceticism and detachment from worldly possessions; rather, its spiritual essence is manifested through active involvement in social and humanitarian affairs.
Embargo
Arab spring and ulama’s discourse on khurūj : (dis)connecting classical political concept to modern context
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Muhammad Faris Ibrahim; al-Marakeby, Muhammad
One of the characteristics often attributed to Sunnī political discourse is its permissive attitude towards political despotism. This perception gained further relevance starting in 2010 during the Arab Spring revolutions when prominent ulama such as ‘Alī Jum'a, the Muftī of Egypt, ‘Abd Allāh ibn Bayyah, the head of the Fatwā Council of the United Arab Emirates, and Sa’īd Ramaḍān al-Būṭī, the head of the Union of Ulama in Syria, chose to oppose the revolutionary movements and legitimize the power of the status quo regimes. In justifying their anti-revolutionary stances, they referred to the views of pre-modern ulama who rejected the legitimacy of rebellion against unjust or corrupt ruler (al-khurūj alā al-ḥākim al-ẓālim aw al-fāsiq). This study aims to trace the development of this khurūj as a concept from the early Islamic period through the medieval era and how it was subsequently referenced in the context of modern nationstate during the Arab Spring by ‘Alī Jum'a, Ibn Bayyah and al-Būṭī in opposing the revolutions. This research employs Peter L. Berger's theory of social reality construction, arguing that social reality is essentially formed by the process of externalization, where individuals project their thoughts, ideas, and experiences into the social world. This is precisely the role played by these three ulama in shaping the political reality during the Arab Spring. Additionally, this study adopts a comparative approach to compare the premodern and modern ulama's discourses with paying attention to Foucault's genealogy concept that focuses on shifts that led to the emergence of new ways of thinking of khurūj as a concept in Islamic political law (siyāsa shar'iyya). This study found that resistance to political despotism has been present since the early Islamic period and continued through the medieval era, manifesting in both violent opposition, such as armed rebellion (khurūj), and peaceful opposition, including verbal protests and mass actions like demonstrations, strikes, and sit-ins. However, by the end of the followers (tābi’īn) period, peaceful approaches became the predominant method among the ulama, with a consensus claim emerging among ulama to prohibit armed rebellion (khurūj) against unjust rulers. This research argues that the tendency of ‘Alī Jum'a, Ibn Bayyah, and al-Būṭī to selectively adopt specific pre-modern ulama's views on the concept of khurūj, based on their anachronistic reasoning regarding the complex realities (wāqi’) of the Arab Spring, has shaped their anti-revolutionary discourses, which directly or indirectly legitimize political despotism.
Controlled Access
Between falsification and authentication : tracing Imāmī Shīa perspectives on Uthmanic mushaf
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Muhammad Alan Juhri; Abdillah, A. Mughzi
This research examines the shift and the development of Imāmī Shīa perspectives concerning the authenticity of the Uthmanic Mushaf. Tracing the views of prominent Imāmī Shīa figures from the early era to modern times reveals an ambiguity between falsification and authentication of the Uthmanic Mushaf. The focus of this research is not to clarify or determine which stance most accurately represents the original Imāmī Shīa viewpoints on the Uthmanic Mushaf, but rather to analyze and uncover the factors behind each attitude of acceptance and rejection. This research employs a qualitative methodology, integrating historical and socio-political approaches. The historical approach traces the shifting views of Imāmī Shīa scholars regarding the Uthmanic Mushaf from the early Islamic period to the modern era. Meanwhile, the socio-political approach analyzes how social and political dynamics have influenced Imāmī Shīa scholars' views on tahrīf (falsification) and the Uthmanic Mushaf’s integrity. The research reveals that the majority of early Imāmī Shīa, up until the early 4th/10th century, rejected the integrity of the Uthmanic Mushaf and promoted the issue of taḥrīf. Political rivalry over succession following the Prophet's death, coupled with the ongoing perception of Shīa persecution and marginalization under the Umayyad and Abbasid Sunni dynasties, were primary factors for this rejection. From the late 4th/10th century onwards, significant Imāmī Shīa figures began to shift towards accepting the Uthmanic Mushaf’s integrity and refuting the issue of tahrīf. This early acceptance emerged during the Shīa Buwayhid dynasty's rule, driven by at least three factors: the role of the Mu'tazilah in political knowledge towards rationalization, political strategy by getting closer to Sunni orthodoxy, and the development of Shīa doctrine due to the occultation (ghayb) of the last Imām. In the modern era (19th-20th centuries), with the increasingly complex Sunni-Shīa conflict involving geopolitics, debates on taḥrīf and the integrity of the Uthmanic Mushaf have resurged. Some Imāmī Shīa scholars have maintained the initial views, continuing to campaign taḥrīf as a form of resistance against Sunni dominance. Conversely, the majority voice of Imāmī Shīa scholars have massively refuted the accusations of tahrīf as a stance of resilience and part of efforts towards rapprochement (taqrīb) between Sunnis and Shīas. Based on these findings, this research argues that the two Imāmī Shīa views on the Uthmanic Mushaf’s integrity— falsification and authentication—both influence and are influenced by the prolonged political conflict between Sunnis and Shīas.
Open Access
Between tradition and transformation in Indonesia : pilgrimage celebration among the Madurese
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Yutsrina Azimah; Yanwar Pribadi
This study explores the transformation of pilgrimage traditions in Madura, an Indonesian island with a distinct Javanese-Islamic mixed culture. Departing from the acculturation of local culture and educational level, this study examines the various factors that influence pilgrimage celebration negotiations in Madura. In addition, this study highlights the importance of pilgrimage as a lifelong aspiration for Madurese individuals and its celebration in enhancing their social credibility. The fieldwork research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing ethnographic methods to explore the cultural and social dynamics surrounding pilgrimage celebrations. It is also draws upon Gennep's three stage rite of passage framework to examine the pilgrimage tradition in Madura. In addition, study highlights the tensions and negotiations occur in the Madurese using Weber's rationality to explores the transitions and complexities of the pilgrimage tradition. The result indicate that the pilgrimage celebration has undergone the change. This study found that pilgrims contributes to the transformation of pilgrimage celebration, it can be said that the pilgrims somehow have power legitimacy to influence the contemporary Madurese perception on pilgrimage celebration. This study is expects to providing insights of the complex interplay between tradition and transformation of pilgrimage celebration in Madurese society festivities.
Controlled Access
Building religious algorithmic authority through different religious community : new preacher and interfaith podcast in digitalizing Indonesia
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Moch Dimas Maulana; Bhirawa Anoraga
Existing studies on religious authority often focus on the construction of Islamic religious authority within the Muslim community. The present study seeks to provide a distinct and contrasting perspective by arguing that Islamic religious authority can be built within a network of communities of different religions, which has been made possible through what Clay Shirky calls algorithmic authority. In contrast to conventional approaches to authority, algorithmic authority is grounded on individuals based on their influence and digital footprint determined by the number of followers, likes, shares, and comments generated by their content. This qualitative study employs digital ethnography to observe Ustadz Dennis Lim, a casino-boss-turned preacher, as its case study. My observations indicate that despite being initially unknown to the public, Dennis gained immense popularity following his appearance on a YouTube podcast with a non-Muslim influencer, Sumargo. Dennis’ popularity is evidenced by Google Trends data showing a significant increase in searches for his name. Within three months since then, he has appeared on some YouTube podcasts of four non-Muslim influencer channels, producing nine podcast videos and gaining more than 20 million views. This shows Dennis’ consistent efforts to build authority through interfaith podcasts with non-Muslim influencers on YouTube. Conversely, a notable decline occurred when Dennis do not appear in a podcast with these influencers for a long period. However, there was a remarkable increase in online searches for Dennis when he recommenced creating podcasts with them, creating a Ramadan podcast series that generated over 30 videos with more than 20 million views. The findings were generated from my Zoom online interviews with Ustadz Dennis Lim, his scheduling manager, and the media team. I also interviewed some of his offline congregants to understand their perspectives on Dennis’ podcasts with non-Muslim figures. The interviews reveal that such interfaith podcasts do not always denote the pluralist orientation of Indonesian Muslim netizens, as they hope that these non-Muslim podcasters will convert to Islam. Nevertheless, these interfaith podcasts have boosted Dennis’ popularity on social media, which in return has also constructed his authority among Muslim netizens in Indonesia.
Embargo
Conceptualizing maqāṣid through an ethical framework : theoretical exploration of Taha Abdurrahman's philosophy
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Naura Safira Salsabila Zain; al-Marakeby, Muhammad
The study of maqāṣid al-sharīʿa gained significant attention from the scholars from West to the East as an approach to bridging various fields of study with the Islamic legal discourse. Historically, the concept of maqāṣid can be traced back to the era of the Prophet Muḥammad PBUH, which was then analyzed by scholars as a coherent discourse with the Uṣūl al-Fiqh. The discourse is developed and applied with various approaches such as classical, traditional, reformist, secular, and postmodernist approaches. The development of the maqāṣid concept has transformed it from a coherent discourse with uṣūl al-fiqh into a specific field of study, recognized as an approach to modernizing Islamic law. This phenomenon has invited Taha Abdurrahman, a prominent Muslim philosopher to conceptualize maqāṣid, as he argued that the previous maqāṣid approaches have yet to sufficiently appreciate ethical considerations. Taha’s conceptualization of maqāṣid serves as his effort to renew Traditional Islamic literature (turāth). Taha’s maqāṣid concept is framed by his ethical philosophy, the Trusteeship paradigm, emphasizing the relationship of humans with God that occurred since the testimony prior to their existence. Hence, this study aims to examine the significance of Taha’s conceptualization of maqāṣid by situating his thought among the maqāṣid approaches from classical to modern. To examine this, I employ a qualitative methodology with data collection through primary and secondary sources. The primary sources are the original books of the discussed scholars especially Taha Abdurrahman and the secondary sources are from related books, journals, and articles to enrich the discussion. The data will be analyzed through content and textual analysis by engaging with all the sources. This study will also focus on intellectual analysis framed by Fuzzy Set Theory (FST), a mathematical theory that aims to identify that certain things cannot be categorized entirely in a specific group. In this context, the framework is applied to situate Taha Abdurrahman’s concept of maqāṣid among other maqāṣid approaches, placing him in dialogue with classical, traditional, reformist, secular, and postmodernist scholars. The findings affirm that Taha’s maqāṣid concept tends to be Sufi-inspired, making it difficult to implement practically. Positioning Taha’s maqāṣid concept as a legal discourse is deemed overly idealistic, resulting in utopian and imaginary expectations. Consequently, Taha’s maqāṣid concept cannot be simply classified under a specific group rather it fits into several groups simultaneously. It is traditional in terms of its reliance on textual proof in understanding law and reformist in terms of its new and innovative methodology, aiming to address current issues where ethics is considered a central concern.
Embargo
Contested views on Islamic dress in contemporary Morocco : balancing Islam, modernity, and cultural identity
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Bouchouk, Oumaima; Bhirawa Anoraga
This thesis explores the complex interplay between clothing, culture, and religion in Morocco, with an emphasis on the hijab and its evolving role and perception. Throughout history, clothing has served as a key indicator of social status, cultural identity, and personal expression, and its evolution reflects broader societal changes. This study traces the historical development of the hijab from its origins to contemporary manifestations, through analyzing its role as a symbol of identity, empowerment, and political expression. The research highlights the impact of colonialism and globalization on Moroccan dress, leading to a unique Moroccan-European hybrid fashion that mixes traditional and modern styles. The study also examines current debates and media representations surrounding the hijab in Moroccan society, while highlighting the diverse perspectives of supporters and opponents. This thesis is achieved through the use of a qualitative research approach, which includes historical analysis, case studies, and content analysis of media representations. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the hijab's role and significance in Morocco.
Open Access
Countermarginalization and fostering a sense of belonging : a case study of Muslim sexual minorities in Indonesia
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Maysa Sonia Alam Rahman; Zezen Zaenal Mutaqin
This study aims to fill the existing gap in the discussion between Islam and sexual minority groups by exploring the strategies and methods that are employed by Muslim sexual minorities group in Indonesia in claiming their part as wider Indonesian Muslims. The research object of this study is Amar Alfikar, a transmale individual that represents an understudied subject within sexuality discourse. This thesis intends to particularly observe the trajectory of the advocacy of Alfikar in promoting alternative interpretation in Islamic studies. By employing Social Identity Theory developed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner as the theoretical framework, this thesis delves further into the advocacy and community of Alfikar and argues that Iqamah, an Islamic study community established by him serves as a representation of a new reality. The research methodology involves qualitative method, which focuses on analyzing his book 'Queer Menafsir: Islamic Theology for Diverse Bodies' and observing the Iqamah community. Literature review was used to critically analyze the ideas and alternative interpretations that Alfikar advocates in "Queer Menafsir,' while digital ethnography is employed by being part of Iqamah to observe the activities of the members. The findings of the study indicate that to be part of the wider Indonesian Muslim community, Iqamah serves as an alternate reality that caters for their experiences as part of Indonesian Muslims and fosters their sense of belonging. This research also emphasizes the paradox of tolerance that is applied towards sexual minority communities in Indonesia and suggests that equating the definition of tolerance as one of possible solution in situating the position of minorities community within the wider Indonesian community.
Open Access
Crowdfunding for inter-faith peace : youth, networked social movement, and muslim philanthropy NGOs in contemporary Indonesia
(State Institute of IslAccepted Manuscriptic Studies (IAIN) Salatiga, 2023) Bhirawa Anoraga
This study exAccepted Manuscriptines the involvement of Indonesian youth and Muslimphilanthropy NGOs in the promotion of inter-faith harmony throughcrowdfunding. Crowdfunding or online fundraising has been rapidly growing inIndonesia. It has been used to respond to various issues, Accepted Manuscriptong which is religiousviolence. Oftentimes, when radical acts happened in Indonesia, people turnedto crowdfunding to express inter-faith solidarity and support. This study drawsfrom the concept of networked social movement to explain the characteristicsof crowdfunding cAccepted Manuscriptpaigns for inter-faith harmony. This concept highlightscontemporary online movements that are spontaneous, leaderless, and temporalin nature which is distinct from the well-organized movements commonly studiedby scholars. This study employs digital ethnography on cAccepted Manuscriptpaigns that respondedto religious violence in the largest crowdfunding platform in Indonesia, Kitabisa,which is complemented by interviews with the cAccepted Manuscriptpaign initiators and Muslimphilanthropy NGOs. This article argues that the characteristics of network social movement fit with the current youth generation that is assumed to be sociallyapathetic and more immersed in developing themselves and consuming media.Nevertheless, despite the spontaneous and temporal tenets, the youth’s inter-faithmovements were able to mobilize a significant number of donations and attractMuslim NGOs that were often perceived to be sectarian to support the inter-faithcAccepted Manuscriptpaigns. The findings of this study contribute to the studies on Indonesianyouth, IslAccepted Manuscriptic philanthropy, and the state of inter-faith relations in Indonesia,which was argued to be experiencing a conservative turn.
Open Access
Cultivating piety in the urban landscape : a study on the spiritual odyssey of Salafi women in Jakarta
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Diah Ayu Agustina; Syamsul Rijal
This thesis aims to shed light on piety cultivation among Salafi women through their engagement in studies hosted by the Nurul Iman Mosque in Blok M Square. This study investigates Salafi women's experiences after attending regular studies and the role of Nurul Iman Mosque as a center for spirituality and Sunnah studies for urban areas in nurturing Salafi women's piety. This thesis investigates the subjectivity, agency, and ethical forms of Salafi women who frequently attend sermons at mosques using Saba Mahmood's Politics of Piety theory. This study involves four months of fieldwork (March to June). Data were gathered by participant observation and interviews with 26 persons, including DKM Nurul Iman Mosque Management, Blok M Square Management, a trader, and 23 female congregants. Using a qualitative research technique, including interviews and observations, this study attempts to fully understand the growth of piety among urban Salafi women in mosque settings, capturing their lived experiences and explaining the variables that form their spiritual journeys. This study argues that Salafi women who actively participate in mosque studies have a profoundly positive impact on their own piety, spirituality, and overall well-being. The study reveals that mosque studies act as a catalyst for change, nourishing the soul and creating a strong bond with God. These women receive comfort, inspiration, and information that strengthens their religious commitment through the numerous studies offered. Mosques serve as social gathering places that promote a sense of sisterhood and belonging while providing a safe area for spiritual inquiry and self-improvement. This study also emphasizes the value of mosque studies in motivating urban Salafi women to reflect on and enhance their lives. Through sermon teachings and reminders, women are encouraged to evaluate their behavior and strive for ongoing growth in pursuing piety.
Open Access
Desacralizing Islamic symbol and gender inclusivity : viewers' attitude toward cross-dressing accounts on social media
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Husni Mulyawati; Noorhaidi
The entanglement of religious behavior and social media leads to a new form of religious expression which is manifested within 'posting Islam" -as Slama contended- Computer literate content creators, primarily Muslim youths, produce creative youthful Islamic content to engage and help viewers to gain a better understanding of the messages conveyed. However, some content creators use uncommon ways to promote their content. One of them is by parodying the opposite sex and resembling them in dressing as a so-called cross-dresser. In Indonesia, the existence of cross- dressers is still perceived as taboo and stigmatized as immoral. However, it seems different when someone views what happens on social media. Whereas people try to refuse the existence of the LGBT community and everything associated with them including cross-dressing- in real life, enormous people unconsciously give validation on the existence of cross-dressers in the digital realm proven with millions of followers. Cross-dressing contents wrapped in Islamic symbols in social media are seemingly successful in shifting the perception of society toward the contradictive phenomenon. This research aims to examine the motives of viewers to watch the contents of cross- dressing parody and elaborate on the impacts engendered for Muslims' perception by engaging his contents, especially related to gender and religious symbols. To explain this case, I choose two content creators doing this parody namely Mak Beti and Fadlan Holao. The research was conducted by employing qualitative methods which the process of gaining primary data uses observation of social media, sharing questionnaires with the viewers, and interviewing some respondents. The result affirms that most of the viewers conceive cross-dressing as a deed violating religious norms and they are reluctant to accept it in real life, but they unconsciously showcase an accepting attitude toward cross-dressing in social media because of entertainment and it has become a common thing. This case displays the ambivalence and self-conflicting coming from contestation between self-idealism and what Schielke called moral registers and also coming from social media. It also asserts the power of social media to shift paradigms. It is subtle but potentially powerful. Furthermore, this research also amplifies the assumption that hijab as a religious symbol no longer becomes a Muslim's identity but shifts to become a lifestyle and commodified good. In other words, the religious symbol has been desacralized.
Open Access
Embracing faith and fun : the emergence of Bikers Subuhan in Central Java
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2023) Muhammad Rosyid; Syamsul Rijal
This thesis examines the emergence of Bikers Subuhan (BS) which has grown rapidly in the past six years. The movement identifies itself as a community of motorcycle enthusiasts promoting congregational Dawn (Subuh) prayer in mosques. Presently, BS has established 108 communities spread throughout cities in Indonesia. This study demonstrates that there was an increase in members within the BS movement, most recruitment takes place through interpersonal relations between the BS members, the Safar Ride event, and the utilization of social media. This research focuses on the BS movement in Solo, considering that the city is known as a nest for various Islamic radical groups, where Islamist ideas remain strong and prevalent. This research applies the theory of Pop-Islamism promoted by Dominik Muller; he argues that Islamist ideas are still being voiced, albeit in different forms/languages, namely through the adoption and adaptation of pop culture. This research employs ethnographic fieldwork for approximately six months (February-July) through participatory and digital observation, interviews, content analysis, and documentation. Interviews were conducted with 26 participants, consisting of one staff member from the PKS faction, four awwalun (leaders), three murabbis (religious mentors/advisors), and 18 members of Bikers Subuhan. Through content analysis, the study will discuss the narratives propagated through Islamic religious preaching (pengajian), private groups, and discussions that followed during their activities. This study found that the BS community tends to lean more toward an Islamist movement rather than a motorcycle enthusiast community. In short, this religious movement utilizes the motorcycle community as a camouflage to attract participants and supporters toward their envisioned goals. This thesis argues that the Bikers Subuhan continue to advocate for disseminating Islamist narratives and endorse implementing Islamic laws, including establishing an Islamic state, albeit primarily within their internal circles. This study is expected to contribute to the literature on Islamic activism that utilizes fun as part of movement mobilization in Indonesia, with a concentration on Solo. Considering that this research is limited to the BS movement in Solo, the findings and analysis of this thesis do not generalize the direction of the Bikers Subuhan movement in Indonesia, which may give an orientation towards supporting Islamism.
Open Access
“Fiqh peradaban” the religio-political developments of Nahdlatul Ulama in contemporary Indonesia
(Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, 2024) Muhammad Yaufi Nur Mutiullah; Yanwar Pribadi
This study explores the religio-political development of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in contemporary Indonesia, focusing on the leadership era of Yahya Cholil Staquf (Gus Yahya). NU, as the largest Islamic organization in the world, with more than 60 million followers in Indonesia and 30 million worldwide, plays a significant role in harmonizing Islamic teachings with modern socio-political challenges through the concept of Fiqh Peradaban. This study uses an interdisciplinary approach that integrates the interpretation of Islamic legal theory (usūl al-fiqh), Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), and social science analysis. The research methods include literature study and fieldwork, including interviews with important NU figures as well as analysis of related literature. The findings of this study show that NU in the Gus Yahya era, with the concept of Fiqh Peradaban, had a mission to bring a religious paradigm capable of addressing global issues. Fiqh Peradaban seeks to discuss actual issues relevant to the international context, such as the United Nation (UN) Charter and human rights, which are often overlooked in classical fiqh discourse. Additionally, this study found that NU's civilizational mission did not eliminate the characteristics of NU's traditionalist thinking, which still maintains the study of the yellow book (kitab kuning). This study argues that NU in the Gus Yahya era was different from previous leadership eras, which tended to focus on local and national issues. The concept of Fiqh Peradaban allows NU to play a more active role in global diplomacy without sacrificing its traditionalist principles. From a political perspective, this study also shows that NU's civilizing mission in the Gus Yahya era maintained the central role of the government, even though NU's close relationship with the government could give rise to internal conflict within NU itself.
Open Access
Forced marriage and sex trafficking under the guise of nikah siri in Indonesia
(Center for the Study of Islam and Society (PPIM) Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University (UIN) Jakarta, 2024) Zezen Zaenal Mutaqin; Yayan Sopyan
Prostitution, forced marriage, and sex trafficking have long been practiced in the Puncak area of West Java, Indonesia. The practice is condoned not only by the surrounding community but also by state officials. This paper resulted from our field research, interviews, and observation in the Puncak area. In addition, it includes an extensive literature review, which encompasses the study of Indonesian and international law regulation, academic writing, and media reports. This paper seeks to uncover the reasons why the practices of sex trafficking and forced marriage are tolerated and what has led to this approval. By dwelling on legal, historical, and anthropological studies, this paper argues that the practices are tolerated because they hide behind a thick veil of cultural-religious justification and are obscured by legal tricks/stratagems, which we call 'trafficking framing.' This framing conceals and camouflages sex trafficking and forced marriage under accepted legal-cultural practices. This paper seeks to uncover the veil of trafficking framing and reveal that the practice of secret marriage (nikah siri) in Puncak is nothing but sex trafficking.
Open Access
Fragmentation of Dakwah Media: Exploring Exclusive Islam in Indonesia Post-Reform Popular Islamic Novels
(Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Mataram, 2023-06-29) Muhamad Taufik Kustiawan; Mhd. Rasidin; Doli Witro; Darti Busni; Mufti Labib Jalaluddin
This article aims to highlight Islamic exclusivism in the form of popular Islamic novelS for children’s reading books in Indonesia after the reform of 1998. Building on the media theory of Gill Branston and Roy Stafford, this study explains Islamic pop novels as Islamic educational materials from a semiotic approach, structuralism, and critical discourse analysis. In particular, this study uses qualitative research methods by descriptively analyzing the reading of Islamic pop novels spreading in the Qur’anic Education Centre in Central Java. The results showed that since the Reformation, the movement used books, newsletters, magazines, and children’s readings of Islamic pop novels to shape the religious thoughts of urban Muslim children and youth in Indonesia. There is hardly a story related to diversity, the value of tolerance, and mutual respect between religious people in those materials. The awareness of religious comprehension in children's reading seems exclusive. It must be realized by various parties that the media utilizing Islamic literature is very influential on the growth and development of children's religious thinking in the educational space in the metropolis.