Mosque Research Articles

ANALISIS STUDI KELAYAKAN PROYEK PEMBANGUNAN WISATA PENDIDIKAN AGRO & FARMING ISLAMIC CENTRE AL HUDA, SELOGIRI

Development of the Free Learning Curriculum for 2022, and the amount of public enthusiasm for the Integrated Islamic Education model has encouraged the Integrated Islamic Boarding School (PPIT), to develop formal education based on Islamic boarding schools; PAUD IT, SDIT, SMPIT, SMKIT, SMAIT which are integrated in character education through the development of an independent curriculum outside the classroom through the Short Semester Course Agro& Farming educational tour program at the Islamic Center Al Huda, Selogiri The construction of an educational tourism facility for the Agro& Farming Islamic Center Al Huda in Selogiri requires a large amount of money so a project feasibility study analysis is needed which is an important factor in a project evaluation although technical and social aspects also determine it. To carry out an economic analysis, economic benefits and costs are needed, which are then made into cash flows based on the implementation program. Calculating the value of the EIRR is assumed to be the loan service, calculating the B/C Ratio which is the difference between Benefit and Cost, and calculating the NPV value which is the difference between the profit (benefit) and cost (cost) in the conditions of average margin mudhorobah/murabahah loan services -12% average. Based on the Feasibility Study for the Development of the Agro& Farm Islamic Center Al Huda Wonogiri, it can be concluded that; the amount of EIRR = 24.0% > 12%, it is assumed that with the loan service margin being greater than 12% (current interest rate), then the project can be said to be economically viable. The B/C value = 1.932 > 1 means that if the B/C value at the loan service margin is 12% > 1, then the construction of the Agro& Farm Islamic Center Al Huda Wonogiri can be built. The difference between the profit (benefit) and cost (cost) on the condition of an average loan margin of 12% is (B-C) = IDR 723,283,139.00 > 0

Gerakan Shalat Sebagai Implementasi Islamic Center Di Kabupaten Deli Serdang Dengan Tema Arsitektur Metafora

The number of crime cases in North Sumatra continues to increase, one of the cases in Deli Serdang Regency, namely cases of violence against women and children. The factor is caused by imitating the technology media that is growing rapidly at this time. As a result, morale, morals and behavior are damaged inside. Therefore, to improve morals within oneself, positive activities such as religious activities are needed. For this reason, a container or place is needed that can support religious activities such as an Islamic Center. In the design of the Islamic Center, motivation is needed that can relate that the image of the building can improve bad morals, by imitating the visuals of the building in the form of prayer movements. This has been mentioned in the Al-Quran (QS: Al Ankabut (29: 45)) "Prayer can prevent from abominable and evil deeds". In this case the architectural theme that can be applied in the design of this Islamic Center is metaphorical architecture with a type of metaphor that can form a visual prayer movement that is real or the same as the original form, namely a tangible metaphor. The research method is in the form of a qualitative method by collecting data and quantitative methods for the results of the design of the Islamic Center

STRATEGI GURU DALAM MEMOTIVASI BERPIKIR KRITIS PADA ANAK USIA DINI DI TK KOTA SAMARINDA

This research is motivated by the current education system, which tends to emphasize that critical thinking is only developed and taught at higher levels of education but less so in early childhood. Therefore, it is important to instill and motivate critical thinking skills from an early age. This research aims to: (1) describe the development of critical thinking in early childhood in Samarinda; (2) describe the strategies used by kindergarten teachers to motivate critical thinking in early childhood in Samarinda; and (3) describe the supporting and inhibiting factors in motivating critical thinking in early childhood. This research investigates the strategies used by kindergarten teachers in Samarinda to motivate critical thinking in early childhood, specifically at three schools: Islamic Center Kindergarten, Ittihad Kindergarten, and Fastabiqul Khairat Kindergarten. This research is a qualitative descriptive study that uses data collection techniques such as observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis techniques include data condensation, data presentation, conclusion drawing and verification, and data validity testing using data triangulation. The results of this research are as follows: (1) In the development of critical thinking, children were found to have a strong sense of curiosity, often ask deep questions, can analyze information, are willing to explore ideas, actively participate in learning, and can solve problems independently. Teacher strategies to motivate critical thinking in young children demonstrate a variety of approaches to stimulating critical thinking. Each strategy has its own unique benefits. Educators have a variety of tools and techniques that they can use to stimulate critical thinking in children. Combining diverse strategies can provide a richer and deeper learning experience. Supporting factors in motivating critical thinking in children include parental support, collaboration with other teachers, adequate resources, good communication between mothers and children, the use of creative teaching strategies, and positive encouragement. However, there are also inhibiting factors that need to be considered, such as time constraints, lack of training in teaching critical thinking, excessive academic pressure, miscommunication with parents, and constraints in the learning environment.

Potensi Strategi Penggiatan Semula Masjid UKM dalam Meningkatkan Penglibatan Masyarakat

UKM (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia) Mosque has existed in Bandar Baru Bangi for over 40 years, however, the locals’ involvement in its daily activities is still lack and has yet optimum. Thus, there is a need to revitalise UKM Mosque to be more relevant to local communities. At the same time, the mosque also requires a lot of maintenance and this incurs costs to UKM. With the recent budget cuts to universities by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE), as well as the Covid19 pandemic impact, the UKM Islamic Centre (UIC) has been encouraged to focus also on the income generation activities. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential of revitalizing the UKM Mosque by proposing new facilities, renovation or any appropriate improvement that could lead to a greater impact on the local communities, as well as increase the income of the mosque to be financially sustainable. The method adopted in this study is the combination of literature review, case studies, series of discussions with related parties and a questionnaires survey. The outcome of the study is a list of proposed improvements with priority given to the facilities that meet the end users’ needs, such as cafe and elevators. The list could be a useful guideline for UIC to refer to before making any decisions on future development of UKM Mosque. This study is hoped to assist UIC to generate greater income and, at the same time provide more significant and meaningful impact on the local communities.

Aplikasi lampu bertenaga surya untuk penerangan

Electricity use tends to come from energy produced by PLN, where the energy produced in several areas is from non-renewable oil-fueled power plants. This causes several areas to remain dark because they do not have street lighting and are dependent on electricity services from the government, including Banguntapan Village which has minimal lighting. The absence of lighting makes the road dark and prone to crime such as theft, which is often due to darkness. To prevent theft, residents are required to guard the village system, but this is not optimal. For this reason, community service is carried out by creating a sense of security through the street lighting construction program in Banguntapan Village, especially the Muhammadiyah Islamic Center (MIC) complex. The aim of carrying out this community service activity is to provide an alternative, renewable electrical energy source by utilizing solar panels that the community can use. Activities were carried out in several stages, namely observation, outreach, and counseling, as well as training on solar-powered lighting installations. The activity partner is PRM 3 Banguntapan which is located in the Muhammadiyah Islamic Center (MIC) complex, precisely in Sorowajan Hamlet, Banguntapan Village. The results obtained are the availability of alternative electrical energy sourced from sunlight stored in batteries and solar-powered lighting units. Residents know and understand that the use of solar energy is a form of energy-independent village development.

PERANCANGAN KAWASAN ISLAMIC CENTER DENGAN PENDEKATAN GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Islam is a religion which Allah has sent down to the Prophet Muhammad as a mercy to all mankind. There are three main aspects to consider, namely the aspects of Aqidah (faith), Shariah (norms and laws), and Akhlak. (moral atau budaya). The need for a container that fully informs Islam and becomes a reference place for activities that breathe Islam that can unite Muslim communities in particular in Bone Bolango district, so it is necessary a place that can accommodate activities that have Islamic nuances in one place. So we need a facility that can accommodate the three, which is an Islamic Center. The province of Gorontalo until now is still in the planning phase by the government, in Bone Bolango district which is now the research site has an area of 2.12 hectares that at the time there is already a mosque used as a place of worship of the surrounding community, Islamic Center has benefits for Hajj Jemaah which in the site planned several supporting facilities for the Hajj jemaah district of Bone bolango, This research uses qualitative methods and observations to meet the needs that exist within Islamic center, for the analysis applied that is micro and macro analysis in order to obtain criteria as initial in Islamic Centre planning. The final result of this research is the application of the concept of Green Architecture in the Islamic Center area, and also the application to the supporting facilities in it, as well as the addition of Islamic center support facilities, this application is carried out according to the appropriate conditions in the Bone Bolango district, in order to create a comfortable area for users.

Condition of the Muslim Community Around Banyuputih After the Closure of Localizations

The Banyuputih localization complex started with the construction of the Banyuputih truck base around 1976 and then developing into a karaoke and prostitution place. This study aims to look at the socioeconomic circumstances of the Muslim neighborhood around the Banyuputih brothel after it was shut down by the Batang District Government in 2021. The type of research used is field research and uses a phenomenologi approach. Methods of data collection using observation, interviews and documentation. As for data analysis using descriptive qualitative analysis. The study's findings demonstrate that a thorough process of closing the localization complex and converting it to an Islamic center was followed, along with numerous considerations, rigorous research, and extensive outreach. Parents' growing conviction that young people are becoming more moral and that the use of alcohol and illegal drugs is declining has a positive social impact on the neighborhood. It is also a place for child-friendly religious tourism. The economic impact that is felt is a decrease in the amount of income until various adaptations are made such as switching professions, switching customers and controlling family needs.

The Principal's Role in Improving Teacher Competence in Madrasah Aliyah

A principal, as a leader, has the important role in improving teacher competence. Teachers, who have significantly good competence, can improve their in-class learning quality. This research aims to describe the principal’s role in improving teacher competence in Madrasah Aliyah of Islamic Centre Bin Baz Yogyakarta (MA ICBB). The research method used qualitative research with a case study. Data were collected through interview, observation, and documentation. The subjects consisted of 7 sources, a school principal and 5 teachers. The data analysis technique was data collection, data reduction, data representation, and conclusion. Data validity was obtained from triangulation technique. The research result showed that 1) a principal encouraged and provided the opportunities for teachers of MA ICBB to participate in trainings and seminars inside or outside school to increase pedagogic competence; 2) a principal controlled and supervised behavior and performance of teachers for improving teacher personality competence; 3) a principal conducted final semester evaluation meeting that was aimed to invite teachers in the discussion forum concerning on phenomena occurred, that was obtained from interaction and analysis of teachers toward all students in MA ICBB to enhance teacher social competence; and 4) a principal provided the opportunity for all teachers to continue higher study, attend seminars, as well as he provided information and motivation to teachers to improve teacher professional competence.

Implementation of the Sabaq, Sabqi, Manzil Methods in Improving the Quality of Memorizing Qur'an Learning in Class V Salafiyah Ula Islamic Center Bin Baz Bantul

The research focuses on the significant role of Sabaq, Sabqi, and Manzil methods in the Taḥfīẓul Qur’ān learning process. These methods are essential in helping individuals achieve their desired targets in Qur’ān memorization while ensuring consistency. Several educational institutions widely adopt these popular methods. The study's main objectives are twofold: (1) to comprehend how the implementation of Sabaq, Sabqi, and Manzil methods occurs in the Taḥfīẓul Qur’ān learning process at Class V Salafiyah Ula Islamic Centre Bin Baz during the Academic Year 2022/2023, and (2) to determine the effectiveness of these methods in the same setting. The research follows a qualitative approach with data collected through observations, interviews, and documentation. The implementation of the Sabaq, Sabqi, and Manzil methods in the Taḥfīẓul Qur’ān learning process comprises five stages: planning and preparation, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reflection. The findings indicate that the effectiveness of these methods at Class V Salafiyah Ula Islamic Centre Bin Baz during the Academic Year 2022/2023 is satisfactory. Though some students haven't achieved their targets, the application of these methods has successfully increased students' engagement with the Qur’ān compared to previous approaches. Additionally, the methods contribute to maintaining balanced memorization of both new and previously learned verses of the Qur’ān. In conclusion, the study highlights the crucial role of Sabaq, Sabqi, and Manzil methods in the Taḥfīẓul Qur’ān learning process. The research offers insights into their implementation and effectiveness, providing valuable information for educators and institutions seeking to enhance the memorization of the Qur’ān among their students.

Perancangan Digitalisasi Tracer Study Berbasis Web Menggunakan Metode Rapid Application Devolopmant

This Information System makes a valuable contribution to educational institutions that wish to betterunderstand their educational and career paths, so that alumni can make more informed decisions for continuous improvement. This is an important step in encouraging data-based decision making and improving the quality of education. Baiturrahman Center Semarang does not yet have atracer study system so the school has difficulty getting alumni data as well. Based on these problems,the Islamic Center Baiturrahman Semarang Vocational School requires a Tracer Study Digitalization Information System designed using the Rapid Application Development (RAD)method. RAD is applied in order to understand, analyze and integrate project or system developmentsquickly and efficiently. from this research, namely a digitalization information system based on tracerstudy, which is expected to help the Baiturrahman Islamic Center Vocational School Semarang inimproving its development.

Analisis Penerapan Penggunaan Mufradat dalam Komunikasi Bahasa Arab di Pondok Pesantren Islamic Center eLKISI Mojokerto

Mufradat has an important role in communication skills. This research is motivated by the difficulties of Arabic language boarding students at the Mojokerto eLKISI Islamic Center Islamic Boarding School in applying mufradat when communicating. The purpose of this study was to find out the application of mufradat for female students in Arabic dormitories communication, to examine the difficulties of students in applying mufradat when communicating in Arabic, and alternative solutions to these problems. This type of research is a descriptive-qualitative study with research subjects being female students of the Arabic boarding school, Mudabbir, and Ismul Lughah. Research data was collected through interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of the study show that some students still use Indonesian and do not apply mufradat in communication. There are two linguistic difficulties and four non-linguistic difficulties. Two linguistic difficulties are in the form of a lack of mastery of grammar and knowledge of grammar. Four non-linguistic difficulties in the form of a less supportive social environment in the dormitory, different class backgrounds, limited time for students' activities in the dormitory, and the emergence of a sense of shame and fear of being wrong. The solution to this problem is implementing a mandatory language program for all students, maximizing the role of Mudabbir as a facilitator and linguistic role model, and implementing a reward and punishment system.

Pengembangan Teknologi Informasi Digital sebagai Upaya Promosi Institusi dan Peningkatan Proses Pembelajaran

Human resources have a role that can determine the success of all activities in the school. Teachers are the spearhead in efforts to improve the quality of services and educational outcomes. Therefore the school seeks to prepare human resources to face the changing times. Information technology (IT) has experienced a very rapid increase in the current developments, as can be seen from the use of technological equipment whose sophistication continues to increase with the reach being achieved is increasingly expanding. In the world of education, the application of information technology is needed to support the operational activities of educational institutions such as schools. The sample for this service is 20 teachers at the Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Islamic Center Ponorogo. The activity begins with coordination with partners, planning and implementing community service activities. It is hoped that the results of this service activity with the development of digital information technology will be able to develop the learning process and help promote institutions, especially for partners, containing issues and focus of service, goals of service, methods/approaches/strategies of service research, and results of community service.

The Role of Non-State Actors in Combating Islamophobia: The Case of the European Organization of the Islamic Centers

This research paper investigates the crucial role of non-state actors in combating Islamophobia, specifically focusing on the European Organization of the Islamic Centers (EOIC) as a case study. The paper begins by providing an introduction that establishes the context and significance of the study, highlighting the definition, impact, and challenges associated with Islamophobia. It emphasizes the detrimental effects of Islamophobia on both individuals and society, as well as the complexities involved in addressing this form of discrimination. The study explores the importance of non-state actors in addressing Islamophobia and underscores their role in promoting understanding and tolerance. The EOIC is introduced as a case study, providing background information, and outlining its objectives. The paper delves into the initiatives and programs implemented by the EOIC in combating Islamophobia, examining their successes and challenges. The methodology section elucidates the research approach, including data collection and analysis methods, which employ a case study approach and consider ethical considerations. The findings and results section provides an overview of the EOIC's activities and initiatives, evaluates the impact of their efforts in combating Islamophobia, and identifies the challenges they encounter in their anti-Islamophobia work. The discussion section critically analyzes the significance of non-state actors in countering Islamophobia, evaluates the effectiveness of the EOIC's strategies and approaches, and shares lessons learned from their experiences. The paper concludes by providing recommendations for future endeavors in combating Islamophobia. This research paper highlights the pivotal role of non-state actors, specifically the EOIC, in combating Islamophobia. It sheds light on the initiatives and programs implemented by the EOIC, evaluates their impact, and discusses the challenges they face. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of non-state actors in addressing Islamophobia and provide recommendations for future endeavors in combating this form of discrimination.

Structure of Islamic Boarding School Curriculum (A Case Study at Islamic Center Bin Baz Boarding School in Yogyakarta)

A systematic curriculum is one of the key factors in the success of organizing all activities in Islamic boarding schools. Therefore, the researcher is interested in studying the curriculum system at Pondok Pesantren Islamic Center Bin Baz. This research is qualitative in nature and falls under the category of field research. The data collection methods used include interviews, documentation, and observation. The research findings reveal the systematic nature of the curriculum in Islamic Center Bin Baz. The development of the curriculum at ICBB is guided by the vision and mission of the foundation and its articles of association as the organizing body. The Islamic boarding school curriculum is designed with a 24-hour education pattern, which encompasses all student activities from waking up to going to bed, with a structured and well-directed curriculum content. The curriculum for teaching and learning activities at ICBB refers to government guidelines, particularly those provided by the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag), as well as the Islamic boarding school curriculum. ICBB organizes the allocation of duties for guiding the students into eight divisions, namely: Teaching and Learning (KBM), Student Life (residential, cleanliness, and security), Memorization of the Quran (tahfidz), Language, Worship, Spiritual Development (tarbiyah), Environmental Beauty and Health (cleanliness and health, as well as gardening), and Facilities and Infrastructure. The implementation of the Islamic boarding school curriculum, especially in the girls' dormitory, involves each division having a program that is divided into two categories: annual programs and semester programs. Semester programs are further divided into four types, including daily, weekly, monthly, and semester-long programs. These programs involve students, female teachers (ustadzah), and supervisors (musyrifah). ICBB designs its Islamic boarding school curriculum to be flexible and adaptable, catering to the needs and conditions in the field. In the evaluation phase, Pondok Pesantren Islamic Center Bin Baz conducts evaluations for each division's work programs at the end of each year and at each educational level.

OPTIMIZATION OF THE PRINCIPAL'S ROLE AS A SUPERVISOR TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF TEACHERS IN SURAKARTA

One way to develop the ability of teacher resources is through supervision. Supervision is an effort to provide services to teachers in elementary to high schools both individually and in groups. This study aims to determine the extent to which school principals as supervisors improve teacher performance. This research is descriptive qualitative research. Descriptive qualitative research is analyzing and presenting facts systematically so that they are easier to understand and conclude. The subjects of this study were teachers at the Surakarta Islamic Center Jajar Educational Institution. The Jajar Islamic Center Educational Institution is an institution that is oriented towards Da'wah, educational and social activities based on the Al Quran and As-Sunnah according to the understanding of salafush saleh. Data was obtained through observation, interviews and documentation as well as the results of relevant literature. This analysis is divided into several stages data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results of this study show 1). At the Jajar Islamic Center, the principal as a supervisor conducts training for teachers using teaching demonstrations, workshops, training, observation, individual and group conferences, as well as supervision visits. In addition, supervision is also implemented at the Jaguar Islamic Center with an Islamic Da'wah perspective based on the Al-Qur'an letter A-Nahl verse 125. 2). The principal as a supervisor in improving teacher performance with authority in academic supervision which is the responsibility of the supervisor and is carried out with a clear schedule, both in terms of period and time. In addition, supervisors conduct research, assessment, improvement and development related to the learning process to develop teacher professionalism and provide motivation for teachers to make performance improvements.

Implementasi Program Tahfiz dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa pada Pelajaran Pendidikan Agama Islam

The lack of student competence in learning the Qur'an is consistent with the lack of student learning outcomes. One of the efforts that is commonly used to overcome this problem is implementing the tahfiz Qur'an program. The program not only increases religiosity and character, but also improves learning outcomes. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the implementation of the tahfiz program in improving student learning outcomes in Islamic religious education lessons. SDIT Tahfizil Qur'an Islamic Center became the research location because it is indeed the basis for the tahfiz educational institution. The research method used is descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques of observation, interviews and documentation studies. The primary data source is the homeroom teacher for class II, while the secondary sources are from documents of learning tools and relevant literature. The results of the study explained that the process of tahfiz Qur'an was carried out using the Murajaah method and the talqin method. In the implementation there are supporting factors namely, parents participating in helping murajaah at home, and inhibiting factors namely some students are not yet able and accustomed to reading the Qur'an. The research implications show that the success of the tahfiz program is influenced by the collaboration of parents and educators in maintaining memorization and making it easier for children to implement the content of verses in everyday life.

Understanding of Santri Regarding Quranic Verses as Prayers within Hizib Nahdlatul Wathan and Its Implications for Children's Education in Daily Life

This qualitative research explores the understanding of santri (students) regarding Quranic verses as prayers within Hizib Nahdlatul Wathan and its implications for children's education in daily life. The study is conducted at the Islamic Center NW Tanjung Riau Batam Boarding School. Through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis, the study examines how santri comprehend and apply Quranic verses as prayers within Hizib Nahdlatul Wathan and the subsequent impact on children's education. The findings reveal that santri exhibit a profound understanding of Quranic verses as prayers within Hizib Nahdlatul Wathan. They perceive these verses not only as supplications for blessings and protection but also as a means to strengthen their spiritual connection with Allah. This understanding influences their behavior, attitudes, and decision-making in their daily lives. The implications for children's education are extensive, including the cultivation of moral awareness, empathy, and resilience. The integration of Quranic teachings contributes to the holistic development of children, enabling them to embody Islamic values and principles in their interactions and choices. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the role of religious teachings in shaping character, ethics, and values among young learners. It underscores the significance of incorporating Quranic teachings into educational practices to nurture individuals who are both knowledgeable and morally grounded. Ultimately, this study emphasizes the potential of religious education to create well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society while remaining steadfast in their faith.

Studies in the Prophetic Ḥadith and its Sciences in Urdu, Farsi, and Arabic by Indian Muslim Scholars

Various tribes and dynasties in Central Asia who converted to Islam began a long series of conquests in India, but those ties did not last long and did not provide the opportunities for and establishing the close relations between the inhabitants of India and Muslims, but the contacts began to grow and flourish when Muslims began to settle in India as their second home, especially during the Mughal era, which contributed most to the development of Indo-Islamic culture. Islam spread in India because of four things that are conquests, advocacy, occupation and migration, and this spread knew some ebbs and flows. Urdu as a language arose with the efforts of Muslims and now enjoys a wide and rich literature, and it must be considered a part of the other Islamic literatures, because the literary Islamic heritage attributed to the Islamic peoples in all parts of the earth, which was influenced by the language of the Qur’an, the noble Prophetic Ḥadith, various Islamic sciences, history of Islam, Islamic mysticism, and all mental and spiritual currents emanating from Islam. Science of Ḥadith movement weakened at the end of the fourth century, but by the God’s blessing to those people in India who renewed the movement of the Prophet's Sunnah until this country became a center for the science of Ḥadith in the tenth century and beyond. We mention in this article some of those who are famous for their efforts and their knowledge, and the most important Islamic centers and educational institutions briefly.

PENGGUNAAN APLIKASI PTV VISSUM PADA EVALUASI KINERJA JALAN KAWASAN TAMAN BUKIT GELANGANG

The city of Dumai is an area that is currently carrying out activities such as the construction of the Dumai Islamic Center and the Lepin market, and some are already operating, such as a culinary village, Taman Bukit Arena, and Ramayana. With these places, it can increase the volume of traffic that is on Jalan Jawasan Taman Bukit Gelanggang. From the existing problems, an evaluation of road performance is carried out, whether the road is still able to accommodate the increase in traffic volume that has occurred. The purpose of this study was to determine the performance of roads and intersections based on the 2014 Indonesian Road Capacity Guidelines (PKJI) and modeled using the PTV Vissum 22 application. From the results of the evaluation carried out, it was found that DJ was on Jalan Sudirman 0.19, which with a DJ value of that size, the road was still safe and far from traffic jams. After the simulation was carried out using the PTV Vissum 22 application, the road that experienced the most traffic movement was Jalan Raya Bukit Datuk.

Commemorations and outreach: Shi‘i leaders of metro Detroit take on theCOVID‐19 pandemic

AbstractOn March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus (COVID‐19) outbreak a global pandemic, spurring dramatic changes in public health policies, travel between countries, and (trans)national economies, as well as in religious and political institutions. In the United States, in particular, the pandemic provoked and revealed an increasingly fraught relationship between scientific, religious, and political sources of information and leadership—an American “crisis of authority” wherein many Americans distrusted scientific and medical establishments. This article explores how Shi‘i Muslim institutions and leaders of metro Detroit navigated these competing authorities, even as their communities faced entrenched societal inequities, including anti‐Muslim racism (Islamophobia). Through interviews with Shi‘i religious leaders in Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, and Detroit, supplemented by digital and in‐person ethnographic research at five major Shi‘i mosques, we show how major Islamic centers and leaders argued for the efficacy, safety, religious value, and legality of COVID‐19 medical guidance and led extensive community outreach initiatives to help their struggling communities. Supported by religious scholars in Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon, their guidance offered messages of hope and resilience, as well as an emphasis on the community preservation and selflessness (caring for others) exemplified by the Family of the Prophet. They also emphasized how religious and scientific knowledge intersect, as per the sacred texts of Islam (the Qur'an and hadiths). Their approach compels us to better understand how sources of religious authority can tether vulnerable communities to forms of (legitimate) knowledge in times of upheaval, divisive politics, and misinformation.