Neo-Sufism among Modernist Muslims In Java: A Case Study of The Muhammadiyah Elites
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37812/fikroh.v18i3.2062Keywords:
Muhammadiyah Elite, Sufism, Practice of SufismAbstract
This study aims to analyze the views, approaches, and practices of Sufism among Muhammadiyah elites in Java, both at national and local levels. The data come from field research supported by library sources, focusing on Muhammadiyah elites as the case study. Using Fazlur Rahman’s neo-Sufism theory and Max Weber’s concept of social action, this study seeks to examine the perspectives, approaches, and practices of Sufism among Muhammadiyah elites The findings indicate that Muhammadiyah elites distinguish between the teachings of Sufism and formal Sufi orders (tarekat); one does not need to belong to a particular tarekat to be considered a Sufi. Two main patterns of engagement with Sufi teachings are identified: First, Collective approach: Sufism is practiced and taught through religious channels such as majelis ta’lim (study circles), community groups, training sessions, and regular weekly/monthly gatherings. Second, Individual approach: Practiced personally by elites, emphasizing dhikr (remembrance of God), asceticism (zuhd), tawassul bi al?‘amal (seeking closeness to God through righteous deeds), and reading the manaqib (biographies) of Kiai Ahmad Dahlan. The study shows that by filtering the core teachings of Sufism, Muhammadiyah has created a distinctive style of Sufi practice retaining outward forms while adapting the inner dimensions to align with its doctrinal understanding of the spiritual path.
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