Dynamics of Religious Conversion from Islamic Education Perspective: Study at the Central Sulawesi Regional Center for Mualaf Foundation

Abstract

This research aims to discuss the dynamics of religious conversion of converts to Islam and their coaching patterns at the Central Sulawesi Regional Mualaf Center Foundation. This study uses a qualitative method. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, direct field observations, and written document reviews. This research interview involved administrators of converting foundations, converts, and local religious department officials. This research shows that the conversion of converts to Islam at the Central Sulawesi Regional Mualaf Center Foundation occurred because of guidance and marriage. The purpose of receiving guidance is that the informants studied religion before taking the shahada because of God's guidance, while religious conversion was due to marriage, and the informants studied religion after marrying a Muslim partner. The religious conversion process occurs through seven stages: (1) Macro and micro context stages. In the macro context, informants experience pressure from family, the people closest to them, and the family's economic situation. There are two patterns of coaching for converts to Islam at the Central Sulawesi Regional Mualaf Center Foundation, namely: Pre-syahadat coaching, where the Mualaf Center Foundation programs pre-syahadat coaching or what is known as pre-syahadat discussions which are carried out through question and answer sessions about Christianization and the basics of Islam. After the discussion process, the individuals decide to embrace Islam, and then the foundation carries out the prayer process and indicates that the individual has officially converted to Islam.