Editor in Chief: Dr. Firdaus, M.Hum., M.Si. DOI: Prefix 10.22373 ISSN: 2798-9534 (e) | 2798-9747 (p) Frequency: 2 issues per year (January-June & July-December) Accredited: SINTA4 (Download Certificate) Publisher: Program Studi Aqidah dan Filsafat Islam UIN Ar-Raniry In Collaboration with: Asosiasi Aqidah dan Filsafat Islam Indonesia (AAFI), see MoA Jurnal Pemikiran Islam (JPI) published by Program Studi Aqidah dan Filsafat Islam, Fakultas Ushuluddin dan Filsafat UIN Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh. This journal is published twice a year, that is July-December and January-June. Jurnal Pemikiran Islam focuses on studies of Islamic thought of Nusantara, theology, philosophy, and Sufism.
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Curriculum Integration and Epistemological Identity in Indonesian Madrasahs: A Post-Reform Analysis
Curriculum integration in Indonesian madrasahs has been promoted as a strategic policy to align Islamic education with the national education system in the post-Reform era. While this integration aims to strengthen institutional legitimacy and improve competitiveness, it also raises critical questions regarding the epistemological orientation and identity of madrasahs. This study examines curriculum integration in Indonesian madrasahs as an epistemological issue rather than merely a technical or administrative arrangement. Employing a qualitative library research design with a philosophical–analytical approach, this study analyzes national education policy documents—particularly Law Number 20 of 2003 and the Decree of the Minister of Religious Affairs (KMA) Number 183 of 2019—alongside relevant scholarly literature on Islamic education reform. The findings indicate that the frequently cited 70:30 proportion between general and religious subjects does not represent an explicit regulatory mandate, but rather functions as an analytical abstraction derived from the structural organization of the madrasah curriculum. Interpreted through Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas’s framework of the de-secularization (Islamization) of knowledge, the study reveals an epistemological tension in which general sciences tend to assume a dominant structural position, potentially positioning religious knowledge as supplementary. This condition reflects an identity dilemma shaped by the interaction between Islamic worldview–based education and policy-driven standardization. The study concludes that sustainable curriculum integration in madrasahs requires an epistemological foundation rooted in tawhid and adab to support holistic human development and prevent epistemological fragmentation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Irfany Awaludin Faza, Subhanal Hanafi, M. Husnaini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A Textual Analysis of Imam Al-Baijuri’s Aswaja Theology: Doctrinal Reasoning in Two Primary Works
This article offers a textual analysis of Imam Ibrāhīm al-Baijūrī al-Shāfiʿī’s Aswaja theology through close reading of two widely studied creedal works, Ḥāshiyah Kifāyah al-ʿAwām and Tuḥfat al-Murīd ʿalā Jawharat al-Tawḥīd. Positioned within the intellectual milieu of al-Azhar and post-classical Sunni kalām, the study first outlines al-Baijūrī’s scholarly profile and the basic conceptual foundations of Aswaja theology to clarify the doctrinal context in which his arguments operate. Methodologically, the research employs a qualitative descriptive–analytical library design and applies a structured textual coding procedure, using argumentative passages, technical terms, and chains of doctrinal reasoning as units of analysis. The discussion highlights how al-Baijūrī maintains an evidentiary balance between revelation (naql) and reason (ʿaql), assigning rational inquiry a bounded explanatory function without granting it autonomous authority over scriptural certainty. Three doctrinal loci receive focused analysis: (1) Ahl al-Fatrah, where definitive Qur’anic principles (qaṭʿī) guide the interpretation of speculative reports (ẓannī), supporting a restrained posture toward takfīr grounded in divine justice; (2) debates on the Qur’an as Kalāmullāh al-Qadīm, where the distinction between kalām nafsī and kalām lafẓī is used to reject both Muʿtazilite creationism and anthropomorphic literalism; and (3) the pedagogical articulation of divine and prophetic attributes (including the scheme of the “fifty attributes”), which connects doctrinal clarity to ethical orientation. The article concludes that al-Baijūrī’s Aswaja reasoning is characterized by conceptual precision and a consistent hierarchy of proofs, which helps explain why his thought is frequently associated with doctrinal moderation in later discourse.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Hidayat, Ibnatul Mardiah, Nurcholik Achmad, Nasirin Nasirin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Maqamat Nawawi Al-Bantani: A Conceptual Synthesis with Self Psychology in Handling NPD
Contemporary discussions on narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) are predominantly framed within clinical psychology, with limited engagement with ethical and spiritual perspectives derived from classical Islamic thought. Existing interdisciplinary studies on Islamic psychotherapy often remain normative and lack systematic conceptual integration with established psychological theories. This study addresses this gap by offering a conceptual synthesis between Heinz Kohut’s self-psychology and the maqamat framework of Syekh Nawawi al-Bantani. Using qualitative hermeneutic analysis and a comparative mapping approach, the study examines functional correspondences between Kohut’s psychodynamic principles and selected maqamat, focusing on their roles in ego regulation, self-cohesion, and empathy formation in relation to narcissistic pathology. Rather than proposing a therapeutic model, the analysis demonstrates how maqamat Nawawi al-Bantani can be interpreted as structured psychospiritual mechanisms that parallel key psychological functions identified in self-psychology. The originality of this study lies in its method of functional comparison, which enables interdisciplinary dialogue while preserving epistemological boundaries between psychology and Sufism. By reframing Sufi ethical concepts within a systematic analytical framework, the study contributes theoretically to the literature on NPD, self-psychology, and Islamic psychology, without making claims of empirical or clinical effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rizvan Falah Kamil, Nur Hadi Ihsan, Moh. Isom Mudin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Construction of Contemporary Maqasid: A Paradigm Shift from Textual to Contextual Approaches
This study examines the epistemological reconstruction of maqashid al-sharī‘ah as a contemporary methodological framework for Islamic legal derivation in response to the increasing complexity of modern socio-legal realities. While classical Islamic jurisprudence traditionally relied on scriptural texts (naṣṣ) and analogical reasoning (qiyās), the rapid transformation of social, political, economic, and technological structures necessitates a more adaptive and purposive approach to legal reasoning. Through qualitative library research supported by normative and conceptual analysis, this study explores the historical evolution of maqashid al-sharī‘ah, beginning with its classical formulation by figures such as al-Juwaynī, al-Ghazālī, and al-Shāṭibī, and its subsequent reformulation by contemporary scholars including Jasser Auda, Ibn Bayyah, and Yusuf al-Qarḍāwī. The findings reveal a paradigmatic shift from an essentialist and text-oriented interpretation of maqashid toward a contextual, systemic, and value-oriented framework that integrates inductive–deductive reasoning, social analysis, and public welfare considerations. This contemporary maqashid paradigm not only expands the al-kulliyyāt al-khamsah but also incorporates broader dimensions such as human rights, gender justice, environmental sustainability, and good governance. As a methodological tool, contemporary maqashid strengthens the relevance of Islamic law in addressing modern legal challenges by harmonizing the relationship between text, context, and legal purpose. The study concludes that reconstructing maqashid into a dynamic legal methodology provides an effective means to bridge the tension between immutable scriptural principles and evolving human realities, thereby enabling Islamic law to function as an ethical, justice-oriented, and welfare-driven system aligned with the universal spirit of a mercy for all creation (raḥmatan lil ‘ālamīn).
Copyright (c) 2025 Azwarfajri Azwarfajri, Saifuddin Sa'dan, Syahminan Zakaria, Muhammad Yusuf https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Humanitarian Theology in Comparative Perspective: Gus Dur and Martin Luther King Jr. on Peace and Global Justice
This article examines the humanitarian thought of Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) and Martin Luther King Jr. through a comparative analysis grounded in religious ethics, peacebuilding, and social justice. Both figures are widely recognized as religious leaders who translated faith-based commitments into concrete responses to injustice, yet they operated within distinct sociopolitical contexts and adopted different strategic approaches. This study employs qualitative library research and comparative content analysis to examine three analytical dimensions: theological foundations, core humanitarian principles, and the contexts in which those principles were implemented. The findings show that Gus Dur and King share a fundamental ethical convergence in treating religion as a public moral resource for defending human dignity, equality, and justice, as well as in rejecting violence as a legitimate means of social change. Gus Dur articulated humanitarian commitments through Islamic concepts such as rahmatan lil ‘alamin and al-maqasid al-shari‘ah, emphasizing pluralism, dialogue, and institutional reform within a multi-religious society. King grounded his humanitarian vision in Christian theology, particularly Imago Dei and agape, and advanced disciplined nonviolent action as a moral and strategic response to racial segregation and structural injustice. The analysis also reveals a significant divergence in operational strategy. Gus Dur primarily pursued reform through engagement with political and religious institutions, while King mobilized mass participation and moral pressure from outside the state. Read together, their approaches offer a complementary framework for contemporary humanitarian practice that links civic resistance with institutional responsibility. The study contributes to scholarship on religion-based peacebuilding by demonstrating how shared ethical commitments can generate different strategies shaped by political opportunity, social structure, and conflict configuration.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arya Cipta Wandana, Masykur Masykur, Agus Ali Dzawafi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Destiny and Mental Health: Reading Al Ghazali’s Tawakkal and Ibn Taymiyyah’s Ikhtiyar Through the Lens of Modern Psychology
This article explores how classical Islamic concepts of destiny and human agency, as articulated in Al Ghazali’s concept of tawakkal and Ibn Taymiyyah’s concept of ikhtiyar, can be interpreted as psychospiritual resources for contemporary mental health. This study aims to clarify the theological and ethical meanings of tawakkal and ikhtiyar in their primary texts and to map their relevance to modern psychological frameworks related to coping, self-efficacy, and resilience. The research uses qualitative library research with a normative philosophical approach. Data were drawn from Al Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al Din and Ibn Taymiyyah’s Majmu al Fatawa and were complemented by contemporary studies on religious coping and self-determination. Interpretative and hermeneutic analysis was used to synthesize arguments and translate them into a conceptual model relevant to mental health discourse. The analysis shows that Al Ghazali frames tawakkal as an active reliance on God after maximal effort that supports emotional stability and reduces excessive worry about outcomes. Ibn Taymiyyah positions ikhtiyar as responsible striving within divine decree that strengthens agency, autonomy, and self-efficacy while preventing fatalistic passivity. When integrated, tawakkal and ikhtiyar form a balanced psychospiritual coping pattern in which individuals pursue purposeful effort and then entrust results to God, thereby fostering resilience against anxiety, stress, and meaning related distress. This article proposes an integrative framework for Islamic counseling and character education through meaning making, structured striving, and reflective surrender as a sustainable model of mental well-being.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdillah I’mal Khoiron Fathkhullathif https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Institutionalizing Sabar Ngantri as a Life Philosophy at Baitul Makmur Islamic Boarding School in a Generation Alpha Context
This study examines how SANTRI, an acronym for sabar ngantri, is enacted as a locally grounded life philosophy at Pondok Pesantren Baitul Makmur in Metro, Lampung, within the Generation Alpha context. The study addresses recurring tensions in crowded routines, including line cutting, pushing, verbal disputes, and difficulty sustaining discipline during shared activities. A qualitative field-based study with a descriptive orientation was conducted. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using an interpretive approach with thematic coding and triangulation across sources. The main informant was an ustazdah responsible for supervising daily routines, complemented by student perspectives representing varied experiences in the boarding environment. The findings indicate that SANTRI is reinforced as an ethical discipline across core routines such as submitting Qur’anic recitations and classical text readings, performing ablution, taking meals, bathing, and practicing respect rituals such as sungkem and sowan to the kiai. In this setting, SANTRI supports emotional regulation and fairness by translating moral instruction into observable turn-taking behavior reinforced by caregivers and peers. The study presents SANTRI as a locally grounded model of character education that helps reduce everyday conflict while supporting communal stability in a dense pesantren environment shaped by the fast-paced habits associated with digitally socialized youth.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wahyudin Wahyudin, Dedi Wahyudi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Qur’anic Perspectives on Mustadh‘afin: Gendered Oppression and Women’s Empowerment in Contemporary Indonesia
This article investigates the forms of mustadh‘afin (systemic oppression) experienced by women, as reflected in selected Qur’anic verses, and analyzes their relevance to the realities of contemporary Indonesian society. Filling a gap in previous scholarship, which often separates gender analysis from Qur’anic interpretation, this study adopts a gender-aware thematic approach (tafsir maudhu‘i) and draws on both classical and contemporary exegesis, including Al-Kassyaf, Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Al-Maraghi, and Al-Misbah. The analysis focuses on QS. An-Nisa [4]: 75, 97, 98; QS. Al-Anfal [8]: 26; and QS. Al-Qashash [28]: 4–5, all of which frame mustadh‘afin as a condition produced by structural marginalization, limited access to rights, and deep-seated gender stereotypes. In present-day Indonesia, such patterns of isti‘dhaf manifest through educational inequality, the dual burden of domestic and public responsibilities, victim blaming, and the commodification of women’s bodies. The study proposes empowerment strategies based on Qur’anic principles, including spiritual and social hijrah, gender literacy, and inclusive reinterpretation of both texts and policy. By integrating gender-sensitive exegesis with the lived experiences of Indonesian women, this article offers a new framework for Qur’anic gender discourse and supports structural transformation rooted in Islamic justice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nina Sari Siregar, Nur Aisah Simamora https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A Phenomenological Inquiry into Wahdah Islamiyah’s Attitude toward Philosophy: Negotiating Purification and Intellectual Tradition
This study examines Wahdah Islamiyah’s perspective on philosophy within the wider Islamic intellectual tradition, focusing on how resistance to philosophical inquiry unfolds within the organization’s culture. Using a phenomenological approach—combining observation, interviews, and document analysis—the research uncovers how Wahdah Islamiyah navigates the tension between engagement with philosophy and the imperative of religious purification. While previous studies have discussed Wahdah Islamiyah’s roles in law, education, and politics, little attention has been given to its ideological stance on philosophy itself. The findings show that Wahdah Islamiyah does not wholly reject philosophy, but imposes strict boundaries on its study, motivated by the belief that potential harm outweighs possible benefit. Members adopt a selective attitude toward religious texts, and practices deemed as innovation—those lacking clear scriptural basis—are generally avoided. The study argues that Wahdah Islamiyah should be viewed not just through normative or political frameworks, but as an ideological movement negotiating its position within Indonesia’s evolving intellectual landscape. Further research is encouraged to examine other Islamic organizations and the ongoing development of Islamic philosophy in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Andi Ulfa Wulandari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Actualizing Sufi Values for the Moral Formation of Qur’an Memorizing Students: A Case Study at Al-Huffaazh, Simalungun
This study analyzes the actualization of students’ morality through the perspective of Sufism at the Tahfizh Qur’an Al-Huffaazh Foundation in Perdagangan, Simalungun Regency. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The findings demonstrate that the internalization of Sufi values—such as sincerity (ikhlas), patience (sabar), trust in God (tawakkal), and humility (tawadhu)—is authentically manifested in the students’ daily lives through habitual practice, exemplary conduct, and sustained supervision. These values significantly shape students’ character, enhance the quality of Qur’anic memorization, and foster both religious discipline and everyday behavior. Nonetheless, challenges exist, both internal (e.g., peer influence) and external (e.g., gadget usage, social media, and romantic relationships). The foundation has implemented adaptive strategies, including restricting mobile phone usage, optimizing halaqah (group mentoring), individualized guidance, and collaborating with parents to address these issues. The study underscores the urgency of an innovative, collaborative Sufi-based moral education model as a solution for nurturing Qur’anic generations with noble character in the digital era.
Copyright (c) 2025 Indri Apriliani, Syukri Syukri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Theological Motivation and the Mutqin Method in Qur’anic Memorization: A Case Study of Manhalun Nabighin
This study investigates the integration of theological motivation and structured pedagogical practice in Qur’anic memorization (tahfidz) at Manhalun Nabighin, with a particular focus on the implementation of the Mutqin method. Employing a qualitative, phenomenological approach, data were collected from one program coordinator and thirteen students through in-depth interviews, non-participant observation, and analysis of institutional documents. The findings reveal that effective tahfidz at Manhalun Nabighin is grounded in a holistic educational paradigm, where memorization is not merely a technical pursuit but is embedded in spiritual values—such as ikhlas (sincerity), istiqamah (steadfastness), and an akhirah-oriented mindset—reinforced through daily routines, role modeling, and a supportive dormitory environment. The Mutqin method, characterized by systematic repetition (muraja’ah), rigorous evaluation, and peer support, fosters not only memorization quality and discipline but also emotional resilience and a lifelong commitment to the Qur’an. However, the research also highlights the dynamic nature of motivation, which is shaped by personal, familial, and technological challenges. The absence of formal psychosocial support points to the need for more comprehensive mentoring frameworks. These results underscore the importance of integrating theological motivation with adaptive pedagogical strategies to ensure sustainable and meaningful Qur’anic memorization. The study concludes with recommendations for educators and policymakers to develop holistic, context-sensitive tahfidz programs, and suggests future research to further examine comparative models and long-term outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Khairani Zamzila, Uqbatul Khair Rambe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Dialectical Relationship between Religious Moderation and Islam Nusantara in Indonesia
The concepts of religious moderation and Islam Nusantara serve as fundamental pillars in the discourse of Indonesian Islam, both promoting values of tolerance, peace, and openness. Although frequently associated, their interplay has rarely been examined through a dialectical lens that highlights both their tensions and convergences. This study fills this gap by critically analyzing the discursive intersections and ideological frictions between these two concepts. Using a qualitative descriptive method based on extensive literature review, the article explores normative perspectives alongside critical debates within public and academic spheres. Findings reveal significant common ground in the contextualized Islamic praxis embodied by Islam Nusantara, yet misunderstandings persist due to low ideological literacy and politicization of religious narratives. The study positions Islam Nusantara as a localized manifestation of religious moderation capable of bridging religious and national identities. It contributes theoretically by broadening understanding of moderate Islam rooted in local culture and offers practical implications for strengthening inclusive, context-aware Islamic narratives that can counter ideological polarization and foster social cohesion in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nurhanisah Nurhanisah, Afrizal Tjoetra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Contribution of Islamic Philosophy and the Implementation of Islamic Education in Realizing Democratic Elections in Indonesia
This article examines the contribution of Islamic philosophy and Islamic education to the realization of democratic elections in Indonesia. The study aims to analyze how the core principles of Hablum Minallah (tauhid and taqwa) and Hablum Minannas (adl, shura, and amal makruf nahi munkar) provide ethical and normative foundations for political participation and the strengthening of democratic values. A qualitative approach with normative-philosophical analysis is employed. Data are collected through a comprehensive literature review, including classical and contemporary Islamic philosophical works, relevant legal and policy documents, and studies on Islamic education and democratic practices. Thematic and normative analysis is used to synthesize and connect philosophical values with educational strategies and electoral ethics. The analysis shows that integrating Islamic philosophical values into educational practices—through curriculum development, extracurricular activities, and community-based da’wah and counseling—can enhance civic awareness, foster responsible citizenship, and promote integrity in the electoral process. Regulatory support from national educational policies further reinforces these efforts. Islamic education is identified as a vital mechanism for instilling democratic culture, ethical conduct, and resilience against challenges such as misinformation and identity politics. The findings suggest practical strategies for policymakers and educators to incorporate Islamic values into educational programs, aiming to support ethical democratic participation. These include curriculum integration, interactive civic education, digital literacy training, and targeted community engagement. This study offers an integrative framework that connects Islamic philosophical, normative, and educational dimensions to the practical challenges of democracy in Indonesia. By situating Islamic education as both doctrinal transmission and civic empowerment, the research provides a reference for further study and policy development at the intersection of religion, education, and democratic culture.
Copyright (c) 2025 Syamsul Rijal, Syatria Adymas Pranajaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Reinterpreting Democracy and Pluralism: Nurcholish Madjid’s Intellectual Legacy and Its Relevance for Contemporary Indonesia
This article examines the contemporary relevance of Nurcholish Madjid’s thought on democracy and pluralism in Indonesia. Through a qualitative literature review guided by Miles and Huberman’s analytical framework, the study synthesizes Madjid’s intellectual formation, core democratic principles, and his nuanced approach to the relationship between Islam and the state. The findings highlight Madjid’s persistent insistence that democracy is not a finished project but an ongoing, adaptive process—one that demands ethical substance, critical participation, and continuous negotiation between religious values and civic institutions. By comparing Madjid’s ideas to those of prominent Muslim thinkers such as Yusuf al-Qaradawi, Abdullahi An-Na’im, Khaled Abou El Fadl, and Asef Bayat, the article situates his contribution within both Indonesian and broader Islamic discourses. Madjid’s advocacy for substantive democracy and active pluralism is shown to be deeply rooted in both his personal experience and his reading of Indonesia’s diverse society. The analysis demonstrates that, in the face of growing populism, the instrumentalization of religious identity, and persistent challenges to civil rights, Madjid’s vision remains urgently relevant. Rather than offering a static blueprint, Madjid’s legacy is framed as a provocation to rethink and revitalize democracy as an open, unfinished process. His call for loyal opposition, civil courage, and social learning is presented as both a challenge and a guide for Indonesia’s ongoing democratic experiment. The article concludes that Madjid’s ideas offer not easy answers, but a critical lens and a moral discipline for navigating the dilemmas of democracy, pluralism, and national identity in Indonesia today.
Copyright (c) 2025 Budi Ichwayudi, Nuril Atfiani Purwanti, Moh. Iqbal Firdaus Saputra, Syabrowi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Reconciling Liberalism and Islamic Educational Values in Indonesia
The encounter between liberalism and Islamic education creates a complex set of challenges and opportunities, particularly regarding the authority of revelation, the role of scholars, and the spiritual orientation of Islamic pedagogy. This article critically analyzes the historical evolution and foundational principles of liberalism, examining their implications for global education and their specific tensions within the context of Islamic educational frameworks. Drawing on a literature-based methodology with historical and philosophical approaches, the study explores how reformist figures and institutions in Indonesia have developed adaptive, integrative models that selectively incorporate liberal values, such as critical thinking, rational inquiry, and curricular flexibility, while steadfastly preserving core Islamic beliefs and communal identity. The findings reveal that a critically reflective and value-based engagement with liberalism can enrich Islamic education and enhance its relevance, provided it is guided by strong spiritual foundations and ethical discipline. The study offers important implications for curriculum design, educational policy, and future empirical research aimed at sustaining the integrity and adaptability of Islamic education in a globalized world.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ibrahim Kholil, Muhammad Yusril Ihza Mahendra Assaggaf, Deddy Ramdhani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Implementing and Internalizing Wasathiyah Islamic Values in a Post-Radicalization Context: The Case of Al-Hidayah Integrated Islamic Boarding School, Aceh Tamiang
Islamic boarding schools are instrumental in promoting moderate Islamic teachings and cultivating values of tolerance and peace, serving as critical bulwarks against the spread of radical ideology. The Al-Hidayah Integrated Islamic Boarding School in Aceh Tamiang represents a unique post-radicalization context, having previously faced allegations of disseminating anti-nationalist ideology. This study examines the implementation and internalization of wasathiyah (moderate) Islamic values at Al-Hidayah after its rehabilitation, with a particular focus on the strategies employed and the challenges encountered. Utilizing a qualitative field research design, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews with school leaders, teachers, and students, and analysis of institutional documents. The findings demonstrate that wasathiyah values—including moderation, balance, tolerance, consultation, reform, innovation, and nationalism—are systematically integrated into daily activities, the curriculum, extracurricular programs, and public religious study sessions. Teachers function as both primary agents and role models in this internalization process, supported by the use of classical Islamic texts and government-issued materials. However, efforts to entrench wasathiyah values face significant obstacles, notably the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of students, uneven teacher capacity, and diminished government support following the school’s official rehabilitation. This study offers new empirical insight into the complexities of ideological transformation within Islamic educational institutions previously associated with radicalism, highlighting both the progress made and the persistent challenges in sustaining wasathiyah as a foundational ethos.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fitri Idani, Raina Wildan, Lukman Hakim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Intellectual Legacy of Sheikh Nawawi al-Bantani and Sheikh Mahfudz at-Tarmasi: Contributions to Islamic Education and Modern Contexts in Indonesia
This study explores the intellectual contributions of two prominent Nusantara scholars, Sheikh Nawawi al-Bantani (1813–1897) and Sheikh Mahfudz at-Tarmasi (1868–1919), to the advancement of Islamic intellectualism in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative approach and a descriptive-analytical method rooted in library research, the study examines the primary works of these scholars alongside relevant secondary sources. The findings reveal that both scholars made significant contributions to various fields of Islamic studies, including Quranic exegesis, hadith, Islamic jurisprudence, and mysticism. Sheikh Nawawi al-Bantani is renowned for his systematic and practical approach, while Sheikh Mahfudz at-Tarmasi is recognized for his focus on methodological and theoretical dimensions. Their works have become essential references in Islamic boarding school education and have shaped the distinctive character of Islamic learning in Indonesia. Furthermore, this study highlights the enduring relevance of their intellectual legacies in addressing contemporary challenges and fostering the development of Islamic education. Their contributions have established a foundation for the cultivation of moderate and adaptive Islamic traditions in Indonesia, while providing a robust methodological basis for Islamic studies.
Copyright (c) 2024 Syarif Firdaus; Dzulkifli Hadi Imawan
Integrating Sufi Values in Aceh’s Dayah Salafiyah: Strategies and Challenges in Harmonizing Tradition with Modernity
Dayah Salafiyah in Aceh play a crucial role in preserving Islamic traditions and instilling Sufi values, particularly in the face of modernization and technological advancement. These institutions focus on developing ethical and spiritual resilience among students while addressing challenges posed by contemporary societal changes. This study investigates the methods employed by Dayah BUDI Mesja Lamno, Dayah Darul Munawwarah Kuta Krueng, Dayah MUDI Mesra Samalanga, and Dayah Ruhul Fata Seulimum Aceh Besar to internalize and adapt Sufi values in their educational frameworks. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews, direct observations, and curriculum analysis. The study found that dayahs utilize methods such as the study of kitab turath, spiritual retreats (khalwat), daily rituals, and mentorship to foster virtues like humility, patience, and reliance on God. However, challenges persist, including technological distractions, societal pressures, and misconceptions about Sufism. The dayahs address these through strict discipline, critical engagement, and community support. The findings affirm the enduring relevance of Sufi values in navigating modern complexities while maintaining spiritual depth. By integrating traditional teachings with selective adaptation, Dayah Salafiyah provide a balanced model for education.
Copyright (c) 2024 Raina Wildan, Ade Zahara Marwan, Zulfian Zulfian, M. Fathin Shafly Marzuki, Muhamad Fakarudin Bin Mazlan
Contemporary Approach in Muhammad Syahrur's Thought on Islamic Law
Contemporary Islamic thought is marked by an awareness of the coexistence of tradition (turath) on one side and modernity (hadathah) on the other. Syahrur introduces a new approach that emphasizes rationality and contextuality in understanding religious texts, especially in the field of Islamic law. This study aims to analyze the construction of Syahrur’s thought through methods of defamiliarization, rejection of synonymity, and the hudud (limits) theory as an effort to renew Quranic understanding in line with contemporary contexts. The research method used is a literature study with a qualitative descriptive approach, examining various concepts and Syahrur’s critiques of contemporary Islamic thought. The results indicate that Syahrur offers a flexible Quranic interpretation method, rejects classical literature, prioritizes an objective-positivistic approach, and employs mathematical principles to interpret law in a flexible manner. Syahrur believes that the Quran is sufficient as the primary source of law without reliance on the Sunnah. Although his views are controversial and opposed by traditional scholars, Syahrur is confident that his approach opens opportunities for Islamic legal reform relevant to the demands of the times.
Copyright (c) 2024 Azwarfajri Azwarfajri, Taslim HM Yasin, Lukman Hakim
Revitalizing Critical Thinking in Acehnese Society: A Cultural and Islamic Framework
Critical thinking is a vital skill for developing adaptive societies capable of addressing the complexities of globalization and digitalization. In Aceh, however, critical thinking has significantly declined, as evidenced by the uncritical acceptance of unverified information, the prevalence of stereotypes, and decisions driven by conformity and egocentrism. This study investigates the root causes of this stagnation and proposes strategies for revitalization by integrating Islamic epistemology and Acehnese cultural values. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis involving 15 informants, including educators, community leaders, and youth in Neusu Aceh. The findings highlight five key barriers to critical thinking: egocentrism, self-interested thinking, conformity, unfounded assumptions, and stereotypes. These challenges are exacerbated by low digital literacy and cultural norms that prioritize group harmony over individual reflection. Drawing on Al-Ghazali’s tazkiyyat al-nafs (purification of the soul) and Kant’s sapere aude (dare to think independently), this study emphasizes the need for intellectual humility, courage, empathy, integrity, and rationality to combat these issues. The proposed strategies include integrating reflective practices into formal and non-formal education, promoting digital literacy programs tailored to local needs, and leveraging Acehnese Islamic traditions to foster a culture of critical thinking.
The Transformation of Urban Tasawuf in Indonesia: Cybermedia and the Emergence of Digital Religion
This study investigates the influence of cybermedia on urban tasawuf (Islamic mysticism) in Indonesia, focusing on its adaptation to digital platforms and the emergence of a digital religious atmosphere. A qualitative approach grounded in constructivist and interpretivist paradigms was employed. Data were collected through scholarly literature and digital sources, and analyzed thematically to examine key themes, including typologies of urban tasawuf (orthodox, marginal, modern Sufism fellowship) and their interactions with digital media. The findings reveal that urban tasawuf integrates seamlessly with digital technology, enhancing accessibility and fostering spiritual communities. For instance, the tarekat Qudusiyah uses Zoom for dzikr, and the Shift movement integrates youth culture with tasawuf. This adaptation has facilitated the emergence of a uniquely Indonesian expression of digital religion. Urban tasawuf reflects a transformative shift in religious practices through digital adaptation. However, challenges such as one-directional engagement and diluted sacredness pose risks to the depth of spiritual practices. Future research should explore specific phenomena within the paradigm of digital religion, focusing on long-term impacts on religious identity and spirituality.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nina Rosfiyanti, Nur Wahidin, Mulawarman Hannase
Philosophical and Ethical Insights in Halal Animal Slaughter Training: A Case Study of the Batu Bara Malay Community
The Batu Bara Malay community has expressed concerns about the halalness of animal slaughter practices, particularly involving chickens and ducks, in the local animal market. In response, the Indonesian Ulema Council of Tanjung Tiram Sub-district (MUI TANBARSU) organized training to ensure compliance with Islamic standards. This study aims to analyze the philosophical and ethical values embedded in the training program. Employing a qualitative case study approach, data were gathered through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings revealed that the training incorporated educational elements emphasizing Islamic teachings, ethical standards, and technical aspects of halal slaughtering. The practical sessions further reinforced participants’ understanding of these values. The research concludes that the training program not only addresses community doubts about halal slaughter but also promotes a deeper integration of religious philosophy, ethics, and technical standards into slaughtering practices, contributing to consumer trust and the preservation of Islamic principles in the Batu Bara Malay community.
The Tauhid of Imam Al-Asy’ari in The Malay Tradition: An Analysis of Faridat Al-Farāid by Sheikh Wan Ahmad bin Muhammad Zayn
This article aims to analyze the concept of tauhid (Islamic monotheism) according to Imam Al-Asy’ari as elaborated in the book Faridat al-Farāid fi ilmi al-‘Aqāid by Sheikh Wan Ahmad bin Muhammad Zayn , highlighting its relevance to the Islamic educational tradition in the Malay world. The study employs a descriptive-analytical method using a qualitative approach grounded in library research. The Faridat al-Farāid serves as the primary source, while secondary sources include theological references and scholarly works related to Imam Al-Asy’ari's concept of tauhid. The findings indicate that Imam Al-Asy’ari’s tauhid as presented in the Faridat al-Farāid encompasses three main aspects—dzāt (essence), sifat (attributes), and af’al (acts)—which are explained through 13 obligatory attributes, 13 impossible attributes, and one permissible attribute of Allah SWT. The book adopts a detailed (tafsili) approach to strengthen the understanding of tauhid while bridging textual and rational arguments in line with the Asy’ari school of thought. Furthermore, the book’s relevance lies in its role as a theological guide for traditional Islamic education in the Malay world, integrating textual and rational pedagogies. This study concludes that the Faridat al-Farāid not only reflects Imam Al-Asy’ari’s theological thought but also significantly contributes to Islamic education. Future studies are recommended to explore the application of Asy’ariyah theology in addressing contemporary challenges.
Copyright (c) 2024 Affan Sisaeng, Zuherni AB
Women and Modern Families: An Analysis of Quraish Shihab's Perspectives
In modern families, Islamic values are increasingly eroded due to the challenges posed by the advancement of information and communication technology. In contemporary Muslim families, wives often work outside the home but still serve as the primary educators within the family. This article aims to elucidate the concept of a harmonious family in the context of modern life, according to Quraish Shihab. The research employs a qualitative method with data collection techniques based on a literature review, examining Quraish Shihab's thoughts through his works from 1996 to 2022, encompassing ten books related to family issues. The findings reveal that Quraish Shihab places significant emphasis on the role of women and family. According to his works, including "Perempuan" and "Pengantin Al-Qur’an," a harmonious family involves prospective spouses getting to know each other before marriage, having a lawful marriage contract in Islam, and ensuring the presence of a guardian during the marriage ceremony. Couples should support each other, exchange roles, and maintain good communication. Shihab also highlights the importance of women's roles in working and education in modern families, advocates for balanced marriage ages, and outlines the conditions under which divorce is permissible in Islam. These principles are highly relevant to the realities faced by modern families today.
The Influence of Religious and Ethical Values on Mitigating Money Politics Among Women in Aceh
Money politics continues to pose a significant challenge in Aceh, notably among populations less acquainted with political processes and facing urgent economic needs. This study aims to explore the influence of religious and ethical values in countering money politics among Acehnese women. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, this research gathers primary data through interviews and supplements it with secondary data from existing literature. The findings reveal that although financial and material incentives are compelling, they do not invariably secure women's votes. Adherence to religious teachings, ethical considerations, and personal life philosophies significantly influence their decision-making processes. Although women in Aceh are highly susceptible to money politics, they are more likely to decline such offers compared to men, primarily due to their strong religious and moral convictions. To combat money politics effectively, strategies should emphasize political education and economic empowerment, reinforced by robust religious and ethical instruction, aiming to cultivate a more equitable and healthier democratic environment in Aceh.
The Concept of Islamic Education by Abuddin Nata: Relevance and Application in Contemporary Islamic Education
This research delves into the comprehensive and adaptable concept of Islamic education as articulated by Abuddin Nata. The study aims to explore Abuddin Nata’s biography, his perspectives on Islamic education, and their relevance to contemporary Islamic educational practices. Employing a qualitative approach, specifically library research, this study draws from primary sources—books authored by Abuddin Nata—and secondary sources, including relevant books and journals. The analysis method employed is descriptive-analytical. The findings reveal that Abuddin Nata’s proposed Islamic education aligns with perennialist principles, emphasizing universality, balance, clarity, realism, and dynamism. These principles ensure that Islamic education remains steadfast in its core values, objectives, and distinctive features, despite societal changes. Abuddin Nata’s concept underscores a holistic and comprehensive approach grounded in divine values, making it relevant across different epochs. This study also highlights the alignment of Abuddin Nata's principles with modern educational frameworks, such as character education and competency-based curricula, showcasing their continued relevance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ina Machla Asafila, Maragustam Maragustam
Navigating Contemporary Islamic Reason: An Epistemological Analysis of Mohammed Arkoun
This research examines the profound epistemological critique and semiotic analysis of Islamic thought by Mohammed Arkoun, focusing on his challenge to traditional paradigms within Islamic scholarship. Arkoun argues that Islamic reason has historically been confined by dogmatic interpretations, which has limited its evolution in the context of modern challenges. Employing a historical-critical methodology and a semiotic approach, Arkoun seeks to uncover layers of meaning that have been obscured by traditionalist readings and to demonstrate the need for a more critical and dynamic interpretation of Islamic texts. Arkoun’s critique explores the historical, linguistic, and cultural contexts that shape Islamic thought, advocating for an approach that acknowledges the influence of these factors on religious interpretation. His analysis reveals how Islamic thought, if unchallenged and unchanged, risks stagnation in a rapidly evolving world. Through a detailed examination of Quranic discourse and the application of modern critical theories, Arkoun proposes a deconstruction of the 'thinkable' and challenges the 'unthinkable' within Islamic thought. This study emphasizes the importance of revisiting the epistemological foundations of Islamic knowledge to foster a more inclusive, reflective, and adaptive intellectual tradition. Arkoun's work provides valuable insights into the potential for Islamic thought to engage more profoundly with contemporary issues, urging a reform that embraces critical inquiry and the exploration of diverse interpretative possibilities.
Contextualizing Muhammad Abduh’s Thought on Religious Tolerance in Indonesia
Indonesia, characterized by its rich religious diversity, inevitably experiences variations in religious principles. Engaging in religious practices can sometimes lead to excessive fanaticism, resulting in conflicts and divisions within religious communities. To mitigate such challenges, fostering religious tolerance becomes crucial for promoting harmony. This qualitative research employs a library research method, analyzing secondary data sources to explore the concept of tolerance as interpreted by Muhammad Abduh, an Islamic theologian and reformist, in his work “Tafsir al-Manar.” Abduh’s interpretation aligns with Surah Al-Baqarah verse 256 from the Qur’an, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and the freedom of belief without coercion. Given Indonesia’s context, where Islam is known for its openness, inclusivity, and problem-solving capabilities, studying and embracing the concept of tolerance from “Tafsir al-Manar” is highly relevant. The study concludes that Abduh’s perspectives on religious tolerance can significantly contribute to national harmony and the advancement of humanitarian values in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2024 Arfada Nafakhati, Siti Nizarotul Fitria, M Fajar Maulana, Bakti Fatwa Anbiya
Modern Human Essence in the Quran: Comparative Views of Muhammad Iqbal and Plato
This study explores the essence and dimensions of modern humanity from the perspective of the Quran, focusing on the views of Muhammad Iqbal and Plato. In modern society, there is a prevailing notion that religion and science are irreconcilable entities, complicating the understanding of their relationship. This study aims to analyze the views of Iqbal and Plato on the essence and dimensions of modern humanity. The research method employed is a literature review, utilizing primary data from Iqbal's “The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam” and Plato's “The Republic.” Secondary data include books, journals, essays, and other relevant sources. The findings indicate that Iqbal perceives the essence of humanity in its spiritual entity, complemented by intelligence, belief, and morality, while Plato identifies three essential elements of humanity: spirit, reason (intellect), and desire (appetite).
Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Royan Masdaudi, Betty Mauli Rosa Bustam
Exploring the Dynamics of Understanding in Western Hermeneutics: From Reproducing Meaning to Rejecting Metanarratives
This study aims to provide an overview of the dynamics of emerging understanding regarding Western hermeneutics. Two main questions are addressed: (1) What is meant by hermeneutics? and (2) How has thinking about understanding evolved in Western hermeneutics? The research employs historical and verstehen methods. Two key findings emerge. First, hermeneutics represents an effort or approach to comprehend and interpret various objects of study, ranging from sacred texts, historical writings, scientific literature, culture, to human existence itself. Second, Western hermeneutics encompasses diverse perspectives on understanding. Modern hermeneutics, exemplified by figures like Schleiermacher and Dilthey, tends toward reproductive understanding, aligning with the author’s intent. In contrast, contemporary hermeneutics, associated with Heidegger, Gadamer, and Ricoeur, exhibits a productive tendency, generating new insights through reader engagement. Critical hermeneutics, as articulated by Habermas, views interpretation as a liberating endeavor. Deconstructionist hermeneutics, influenced by Derrida, leans toward radical understanding. Finally, postmodern hermeneutics, championed by thinkers such as Lyotard and Vattimo, rejects metanarratives in interpretation.