KEBUDAYAAN DALAM ISLAM Oleh Ulul Huda., S.Pd.I., M.Si.

Summary

The speaker discusses the relationship between Islam and local culture, emphasizing how Islamic teachings have influenced and adapted various cultural practices. He explains that certain pre-Islamic customs were preserved, while others were rejected, based on their alignment with Islamic values. Key examples include the use of the peci (hat) in prayer and traditions like mudik and Maulid Nabi in Indonesia. The talk highlights the importance of cultural practices that respect Islamic principles and human dignity, stressing that Islam and local culture can harmoniously coexist and contribute positively to society.

Takeaways

• 😀 Islam selectively embraced cultural practices from pre-Islamic Arab society, preserving those that aligned with its core values of Tauhid (the oneness of God) and rejecting those that conflicted with Islamic teachings.
• 😀 Cultural practices in Islam are categorized into three types: accepted, rejected, and neutral (i.e., those that are allowed but not explicitly mandated in Islamic law).
• 😀 The concept of muamalah (social interaction and transactions) is a key area where cultural practices can evolve while still adhering to Islamic principles.
• 😀 The Indonesian tradition of 'mudik' (returning to one's hometown for family reunions during religious holidays) is an example of a cultural practice aligned with Islamic values of family bonds and social cohesion.
• 😀 The wearing of 'peci' (a traditional cap) during prayers in Indonesia reflects a blend of local cultural identity and Islamic practices, despite not being prescribed by Islamic law.
• 😀 Cultural acculturation has played a significant role in Indonesia, where Islamic practices have merged with local traditions, such as the integration of Islamic values into the Sekaten festival in Yogyakarta.
• 😀 Cultural practices that are consistent with Islamic teachings contribute to a society's spiritual and social well-being and should be preserved.
• 😀 Traditions like the 'Walimatussafar' (a farewell ceremony for those going on Hajj) are a part of Indonesian culture, showing the importance of community support and prayers in religious observances.
• 😀 The principle of 'Al Ada Muhakkamah' (the recognition of customary law) allows for the integration of long-established local traditions that do not conflict with Islamic law, offering flexibility in legal and cultural matters.
• 😀 Islam encourages the preservation and development of cultural practices that align with universal human values, promoting a harmonious society that respects both tradition and religious principles.
• 😀 As the scholar Kuntowijoyo noted, cultural practices that align with Islam are more easily accepted and embraced by communities, as religion and culture must coexist and complement each other for successful integration.

Q & A

What is the relationship between Islam and local cultural traditions in Indonesia?

Islam encourages the integration of local cultural traditions as long as they do not contradict its core teachings, especially the principle of *Tauhid* (the oneness of God). Many Indonesian traditions have been embraced, such as *peci* (hat) wearing during prayers and *Maulid Nabi* (celebrating the Prophet Muhammad's birthday), because they do not conflict with Islamic principles.

How does Islam classify local customs and traditions?

Islam classifies local customs into three categories: 1) Accepted Traditions, which align with Islamic values; 2) Rejected Traditions, which conflict with Islamic teachings; and 3) Neutral Traditions, which are allowed as long as they do not contradict Islamic values.

What is the significance of *peci* in Indonesian Muslim culture?

*Peci* is a traditional hat worn during prayers in Indonesia. Although it is not a religious requirement in Islam, it has become a symbol of national pride and is deeply associated with Indonesian Muslim identity. It represents a blend of cultural and religious practices.

Why is the *Sekaten* festival in Java considered an example of acculturation between Islam and local traditions?

*Sekaten* is a Javanese festival that incorporates Islamic values, particularly the *syahadatain* (the two testimonies of faith), into local cultural traditions. This festival shows how Islam adapted to local customs, making it more accessible to the people of Java.

How does Islam view cultural practices that are not explicitly mentioned in its teachings?

Islam allows cultural practices that are not explicitly mentioned in its teachings as long as they do not contradict the fundamental principles of the faith, such as justice, humanity, and respect for creation. These practices, like *halal bihalal* or *Maulid Nabi*, are embraced when they align with Islamic values.

What is the role of *fitrah* in evaluating cultural practices in Islam?

*Fitrah* refers to the natural, innate disposition of humans. Cultural practices that honor human dignity and natural instincts, and that do not violate the core Islamic principles, are accepted. Practices that harm or violate human nature, such as human sacrifice, are rejected by Islam.

Why is the concept of *acculturation* important in the spread of Islam in Indonesia?

The concept of *acculturation* was crucial in the spread of Islam in Indonesia because it allowed Islam to blend with local customs, making the religion more relatable and easier for the people to accept. This approach made the teachings of Islam more accessible and helped integrate Islamic principles with local traditions.

Can you give an example of a tradition that Islam has accepted in Indonesia?

One example is the practice of *mudik*, where Indonesians travel back to their hometowns during major holidays like Idul Fitri. This tradition is seen as a way to strengthen family bonds and maintain *silaturahim* (social ties), which is in line with Islamic teachings on community and family.

What is the significance of the tradition of *Walimatussafar* before going on Hajj in Indonesia?

*Walimatussafar* is a traditional ceremony in Indonesia where individuals ask for prayers and blessings from the community before going on the Hajj pilgrimage. Although not a religious obligation in Islam, this tradition reflects a communal aspect of Islamic life and expresses the desire for spiritual and physical well-being during the pilgrimage.

What is the relationship between Islamic teachings and human creativity in culture?

Islam encourages the use of human creativity and intellect in various aspects of life, including culture, art, and society. As long as these creative expressions align with Islamic principles, they are seen as valuable and part of the broader Islamic cultural heritage, which aims to benefit humanity and maintain harmony in society.