Integration between Islamic Revelation and Local Culture: A Study of Theology and the Indigenisation of Islam in Indonesia

Abstract

This research explains the Islamic revelation in the context of the synergy between fiqh and tradition. Using qualitative methods, this research concludes that: first, the pribumization of Islam is the result of the thought of K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) by seeking harmonization between fiqh and tradition. Gus Dur referred to the compromising process of Islamization by the Walisongo in spreading Islam in Nusantara as a very effective instrument or medium in the spreading of Islam. Secondly, in the Islamic Pribumization discourse, Gus Dur used the fiqh methodology of al-'ādah muhakkamah and al-'tsābit bi al-'urf ka al-tsābit bi al-nash, which were seen as capable of paying attention to the needs present in the local culture. For example, the greeting assalamu’alaikum is interpreted in the good morning greeting only in the relationship of mu’amalah, not up to the level of worship, in the custom of marriage by carrying out the conditions of harmony, but still given space in expressing their respective cultures while not contrary to religion. Third, based on its historical flow, religious values within culture in the Pribumization of Islam substantially shifted towards the discourse of Islam Nusantara and are now transformed into one of the indicators of religious moderation, namely accommodating a local culture so that it has a relevant relationship therein.