Ahmad Muttaqin -

RELIGION IS A TRADITION

Prof. Dr. Media Zainul Bahri

RELIGION IS A TRADITION, understood as something that is believed, practiced, and interpreted by humans. We cannot verify whether angels or God themselves adhere to a religion. While sacred texts suggest that angels or jinn engage in worship, this is not something we can observe with our senses; it remainsunobservableOnly humans, with all their complexities, are visibly seen to believe in, understand, and practice religion, passing it down through generations over centuries. This is what we refer to as “tradition” orreligious tradition).

The tradition evolved over time, becoming increasingly complex due to the close relationship between religious texts and their cultural context, which includes aspects such as culture, economy, and politics. Additionally, the social dynamics between religious individuals and the interactions between religious and non-religious people contributed to this development.

Jika para ilmuwan Eropa sejak masa modern, terutama di abad 19 Masehi, menyebut agama—bersama-sama dengan institusi pendidikan, birokrasi, negara, pariwisata, ekonomi dan lain-lain– sebagai “penemuan manusia”, saya lebih suka menyebut agama sebagai tradisi. Agama-agama yang hidup (living religions), yang awal kemunculannya banyak meminjam “tradisi lokal” di tempat agama itu lahir, kini ikut mengembangkan tradisi umat manusia. Continue reading “Agama Adalah Tradisi” →

Opinion

Religious Studies and the Logic of Diversity in Indonesia (Part 2)

Ustadi Hamsah

(The second of two articles)

In the academic context, Muslim institutions have made significant contributions to fostering harmony and cooperation within the Indonesian nation. Notably, the State Islamic Institute (IAIN) and the State Islamic University (UIN) have played essential roles across Indonesia. These institutions prioritize studies on diversity, both religious and socio-cultural, particularly through the Department of Religious Studies, formerly known as Comparative Religion. This department focuses on various issues related to diversity and conflict resolution. By emphasizing methodological rigor and comprehensive cross-disciplinary analysis, the Religious Studies examines issues from a variety of perspectives derived from social sciences, humanities, and Islamic texts, all viewed holistically.

Religious Studies and Multiculturalism

The Religious Studies is crucial for understanding the logical reasoning behind the diversity in Indonesia. This is primarily because the Religious Studies examines various religious, Islamic, and Indonesian discourses from a comprehensive, holistic, objective, and interdisciplinary perspective. However, this is not the only reason; there are several theoretical issues addressed in the Religious Studies. One key aspect is the understanding that human actions do not stem from "empty consciousness," but rather originate from an "idea" embedded in consciousness, which Michel Foucault refers to as episteme (Foucault, The Archaeology of Knowledge, 1972). Additionally, Peter L. Berger argues that one of the most profound influences on human attitudes and actions is religious consciousness (Berger and Thomas Luckmann in The Social Construction of Reality, 1991). Therefore, any explanation of these phenomena should begin with this foundational understanding. The Religious Studies, through its studies in the Philosophy of Religion, Sociology of Religion, Phenomenology of Religion, Psychology of Religion, History of Religion, and Anthropology of Religion, as well as the study of the Qur'an and Hadith, endeavors to explore the roots of human actions from various specific approaches.

Continue reading “Studi Agama & Nalar Keragaman di Indonesia (2)” →

Opinion

Religious Studies and the Logic of Diversity in Indonesia (Part 1)

Ustadi Hamsah

(The first of two articles)

Indonesia, often referred to by its cultural name, Nusantara, describes a vast region situated between two oceans and two continents, specifically in Southeast Asia. This term highlights the diversity of various ethnic groups, religions, cultures, and customs that coexist with a common purpose. The notion of unity in diversity is encapsulated in the words of Mpu Tantular, who, in his work Sutasoma (1370 AD), famously stated, "bhinneka tunggal ika tan hana dharma magrwa," which translates to "diverse but united; no power can weaken it." This concept predates the motto "e pluribus unum" (out of many, one) found on the Great Seal of the United States, which was created by Charles Thomson in 1732 AD. However, Mpu Tantular's depiction of diversity is still more recent than the narratives of diversity expressed in the Qur'an, dating back to the 7th century AD.

The Symbolism of Diversity in Noah's Ark

Given Indonesia’s highly diverse and complex background, one might initially imagine a “chaotic,” “crowded,” and utterly disordered society. However, this is far from the reality found in the archipelago. On the contrary, what emerges is a harmonious life, rich in the spirit of mutual cooperation (gotong royong), and far from hostile attitudes in the face of differences, all embodied in the spirit of bhinneka tunggal ika (unity in diversity). This social condition resonates with the Qur’anic description of the atmosphere aboard “Noah’s Ark” (safinah Nuḥ)

Continue reading “Studi Agama & Nalar Keragaman di Indonesia (1)” →

Opinion

Stay Active and Productive During the Pandemic

Robby H. Abror

Anxiety is evident on the faces of children across the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2019 and has spread globally, infecting millions and resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths. It is understandable that such expressions of worry arise; during the pandemic, the burden of life has increased for everyone. In summary, social issues are weighing heavily on our hearts and minds. The economy appears to have collapsed, with shops and malls closed, and online motorcycle taxi services have also been affected. Every aspect of life is entwined with the overwhelming anxiety surrounding this crisis.

The public was taken aback by the release of tens of thousands of prisoners to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus in jails. Additionally, thousands of people lost their jobs. As a result, criminal activities surged once again. One by one, those involved were arrested and returned to prison by the authorities or the police. The government found itself in a state of panic, overwhelmed by these events and phenomena.

What options do we have if we are required to quarantine or isolate ourselves at home for at least 14 days? The implementation of the lockdown, or as the government calls it, Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB), has significantly slowed down the country's economic activity.

Social Lockdown, Not a Lockdown of the Mind

The PSBB instruction has faced criticism for being implemented too late, as thousands in Indonesia have already been infected with the coronavirus. Additionally, the ongoing disputes and conflicts of interest between the central and regional governments have created confusion among the public. Many citizens have expressed their concerns that the response to the COVID-19 outbreak has been slow and unprofessional.

Continue reading “Tetap Aktif dan Produktif di Tengah Pagebluk” →

Opinion

Pseudoscience and Pseudoreligion in the Midst of an Epidemic

Ahmad Muttaqin

Humans are remarkably fragile. The arrogance shown in managing and exploiting nature is being challenged

Various methods, ranging from scientific approaches to spiritual practices, are being employed to combat the new Coronavirus. The healthcare sector is at the forefront, providing assistance and treatment to patients while working tirelessly to develop a vaccine for prevention. Meanwhile, the economic and social sectors are striving to mitigate the pandemic's impact, which has severely affected the industrial sector, trade in goods and services, and social life. At the same time, religious organizations are also offering spiritual support through prayer and comforting rituals.

Many people are questioning whether the new Coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019), is a result of a natural process or human engineering. Proponents of conspiracy theories often argue that this virus was deliberately created in a laboratory for various interests, such as serving as a biological weapon or benefiting the vaccine and pharmaceutical industries. This article will not explore the pros and cons regarding the virus's origin. Instead, it will examine the level of "scientific reasoning and religious reasoning" reflected in the various responses from different parties in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic.

Amid the uncertainty surrounding the origin of the virus and the lack of a vaccine and cure for Covid-19, it is ideal to address this pandemic using a combination of scientific methods and religious beliefs. Science and technology serve to prevent, treat, and manage the physical impacts of Covid-19, while religion provides spiritual support, helping individuals remain steadfast and resilient in their faith.

Continue reading “Pseudoscience & Pseudoreligion di Tengah Wabah” →

Opinion

SOCIOVIROLOGY: Socio-Religious Transformations Triggered by the Covid-19 Pandemic

Oleh: Dr. Sholikh Al-Lamongani, M.Phil.I*

This article seeks to assert that Covid-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) is a major factor capable of altering the fundamental patterns and structures of life within global communities. To support this assertion, the article describes the changes in society brought about by the influence of the virus. I refer to this examination of the impact of Covid-19 on social dynamics as "SocioVirology." SocioVirology is a theoretical framework that posits that viruses (microbes) can serve as primary determinants of social change within society.

As we entered 2020, the global community, including Indonesia, was taken aback by the emergence of a new coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19. The initial cases and spread of Covid-19 are believed to have originated in Wuhan City, China, at the end of 2019 before rapidly spreading across the globe.

Although differing opinions later surfaced, suggesting that the origins of the Covid-19 outbreak could be traced back to the United States, Europe, or even Indonesia, these debates are not particularly important. What is clear is that the spread of Covid-19 has now reached nearly every country in the world.

According to data released by Worldmeters and cited by Kompas.Com on April 15, 2020, the total number of Covid-19 cases worldwide reached 1,991,275, with 125,951 deaths and 467,079 recoveries

The ten countries with the largest number of Covid-19 cases are ranked as follows: 1. United States: 6,106,322 cases, 25,856 deaths, 38,562 recoveries. 2. Spain: 172,541 cases, 18,056 deaths, 67,504 recoveries. 3. Italy: 162,488 cases, 21,067 deaths, 37,130 recoveries. 4. France: 143,303 cases, 15,729 deaths, 28,800 recoveries. 5. Germany: 131,359 cases, 3,294 deaths, 68,200 recoveries. 16. United Kingdom: 93,873 cases, 12,107 deaths, 344 recoveries. 7. China: 82,249 cases, 3,341 deaths, 77,738 recoveries. 8. Iran: 74,877 cases, 4,683 deaths, 48,129 recoveries. 9. Turkey: 65,111 cases, 1,403 deaths, 4,157 recoveries. 10. Belgium: 31,119 cases, 4,157 deaths, 6,868 recoveries. Additionally, Indonesia has reported 4,839 cases, 459 deaths, and 426 recoveries. Globally, the trend in Covid-19 data continues to show an increase.

The data above indicates that Covid-19 has become a frightening and lethal "zombie" presence for the global order of life, as nearly all countries in the world are affected by Covid19.

Continue reading “SOSIOVIROLOGI: Perubahan Sosial-Keagamaan Akibat Pandemi Covid-19” →

Opinion

Changes in the Religious Landscape Post Covid-19: The Role of Religious Studies

Ahmad Muttaqin

As we observe the various responses of religious communities to the pandemic, it leads us to consider the changes that may take place in the landscape of religious life after the pandemic. How can we bridge the gap between religious reasoning and scientific reasoning in society, enabling religious individuals to effectively deal with epidemics and other natural events? So that religion is always shalihun fi kulli makan wa zaman (In accordance with space and time). How can the Religious Studies address these questions?

___________________________

The April 2020 edition of Middle East Forbes published Khuloud Al Omian Article titled "Are we witnessing the awakening of a New World Order” The article listed 10 issues predicting changes in the new world order, including a shift in the global power axis, automation of production infrastructure, decline in the travel business sector, changes in education systems and patterns, social life, health, and the environment. Interestingly, none of the 10 points made by Al Omian examined the possibility of change in the field of religion and spirituality

Biju Dominic dalam “Will Covid-19 weaken the base of organized religions?” menyatakan bahwa bencana dan musibah dapat mempengaruhi perubahan perilaku keberagamaan masyarakat baik secara positif maupun negative. Sebagai contoh, runtuhnya gedung WTC di New York mendorong masyarakat Amerika semakin “religious”. Hal ini berdasar trend meningkatnya warga yang memandang penting agama dalam kehidupan sehari-hari mereka sejak peristiwa 9/11 tersebut. Menurut data Gallup Research, sejak tahun 1960 masyarakat Amerika Serikat yang mengganggap agama itu penting dalam kehidupannya tidak lebih dari 40%. Namun, angka itu melonjak menjadi 70% sejak peristiwa 9/11. Sebaliknya, wabah penyakit pes abad 14 yang melanda Eropa menjadi penyebab makin redupnya peran hirarki gereja di Eropa. Awalnya, para pimpinan gereja waktu itu menyebut bahwa wabah penyakit itu bentuk hukuman Tuhan untuk para pendosa. Karena itu agar terhindar dari wabah tersebut, harus bertaubat dan banyak berdoa. Namun seiring wabah yg tidak kunjung berhenti, kepercayaan pada otoritas dan hirarki gereja makin pudar hingga kemudian di abad 15 memunculkan berbagai gerakan reformasi gereja.

Berangkat dari pengalaman sejarah sebagaimana dipaparkan Biju di atas, kira-kira seperti apa wajah agama dan potret keberagamaan pasca Covid-19?

Continue reading “Perubahan Lanskap Keberagamaan Pasca Covid-19: Apa yang Dapat Studi Agama-Agama Lakukan?” →

News

ASAI Officer Earns Doctoral Degree from UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya

Solihul Huda, a lecturer in the Religious Studies Program at Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya, and also an Officer of the ASAI Department of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, successfully defended his dissertation titled "Apostasy in the Views of the Muhammadiyah Elite of East Java." This achievement took place in front of his promoter and examiners at UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya on Tuesday, January 28, 2020.