The Islamic Organizations in Indonesia ‘Muhammadiyah and NU’: Social Perspective Explanation

Abstract

Objectives: Islamic Organizations in Indonesia have created remarkable social change for almost a century. Since their establishment, Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) are the main pillars in enhancing Islamic thoughts and representatives of the majority Muslim in the country. The aim of this research is to analyze the social impact and approaches of these two organizations on the Indonesian society. Methods: By adopting qualitative method and using social definition approach, seven leaders and scholars of both organizations were selected purposively and interviewed. Narrative approach was used to extract this research based on Giorgi module. Results: The results of the research reveal that Muhammadiyah and NU are leading social change through conducting social Islamic occasions, education, religious and cultural events and economic empowerment of the society. Every social aspect was analyzed in details in both organizations separately to illustrate their engagement and interaction in Indonesian society. Conclusions: Muhammadiyah and NU have significant impact in social life of Indonesian people and represent the Islamic culture of the country. Islamic organizations around the world are recommended to follow the same path of Muhammadiyah and NU to enhance society and support the country leadership based on the Islamic thoughts.