Jurnal Iman dan Spiritualitas (e-ISSN: 2775-4596) is an open-access journal and peer-reviewed scientific works, both theoretically and practically, in the studies of religions and spirituality in various parts of the world. JIS encompasses studies of religious doctrines, rituals, and spiritual experiences worldwide, integrating perspectives from anthropology, sociology, psychology, history, philosophy, law, education, economics, literature, and cultural studies. The journal's audience comprises educated readers and researchers from universities and higher education institutions, policymakers, administrators, and other interested parties. The Jurnal Iman dan Spiritualitas (JIS) has been published four times a year since 2021 by the Master Program of Religious Studies at the UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Indonesia. The journal has received a Sinta 3 ranking for the Indonesian nation, as per the Decree of the Director General of Higher Education, Ministry of Education and Culture, Number 177/E/KPT/2024.
Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgment of its initial publication in this journal. Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work (See The Effect of Open Access).
Siyasah Dusturiyyah Scrutiny of Village Financial Digitization per Permendagri No. 20/2018 Article 2(1): Empirical Insights from Darmaraja Village, Ciamis
This research is motivated by the phenomenon of the implementation of digital village financial management which has various implications for transparency, accountability, and village financial governance. In the perspective of Siyasah Dusturiyah, digital village financial management must be carried out with the mandate and efforts of Hifzh Al-Mal (protection of state assets) which must be accounted for. The purpose of this research is to describe the implementation of digital village financial management in Darmaraja Village and assess its effectiveness based on Article 2 Paragraph (1) of the Regulation of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 20 of 2018 and analyze its compliance with the principles of Siyasah Dusturiyah. This research uses an empirical juridical method through field observation. Data were obtained through literature reviews, documentation, and interviews with village officials, BPDs, community leaders, the DPMD of West Java Province, and the Regional Government Bureau of the Secretariat of West Java Province. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of Darmaraja village financial management has succeeded in creating an administrative discipline system for village officials. However, from the community perspective, low digital literacy is still an obstacle, so billboards are a viable solution to bridge the information gap. From the perspective of Siyasah Dusturiyah, this shows that successful digital village financial management must be accompanied by a change in work culture that prioritizes community welfare, ensuring that Hifzh Al-Mal efforts are realized not only administratively but also tangibly through inclusive transparency.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anggini Agestia Ibrahim, Beni Ahmad Saebani, Bobang Noorisnan Pelita https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Dynamics of Spiritual Well-Being for Prospective Mentors in the Haramain Student Mobility Program
This study explores the dynamics of spiritual well-being of prospective Hajj and Umrah guides participating in the Haramain Student Mobility Program. The role of a muthawwif demands strong spiritual preparedness, given the complexity of tasks such as assisting elderly pilgrims (47,384 people this year), regulatory changes, and the risk of fatigue and burnout. Previous research confirms that spirituality plays a crucial role in preventing fatigue and strengthening emotional resilience. The subjects were two Hajj and Umrah Management students from Walisongo State Islamic University (UIN) Semarang who participated in the Haramain Community Service Program (KKN) and aspired to become professional Hajj and Umrah guides. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach, collecting data through in-depth interviews and analyzing them based on conceptual adaptations of the dimensions and indicators of the Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM) developed by John W. Fisher. Consist of four domains of spiritual well-being: personal (self), communal, environmental, and transcendental (God). The results indicate a positive dynamic of spiritual well-being during the intense experience of the Haramain program. The personal domain reflects good self-knowledge, awareness of strengths and weaknesses, and positive thinking patterns. The communal domain demonstrated harmonious relationships, compassion, and a sense of family, despite minor friction. The environmental domain emphasized harmony with nature, concern for cleanliness, and awe of God's creation. Meanwhile, the transcendental domain was the strongest, strengthening personal relationships with God. Participants' spiritual well-being is achieved through the program experience, which simultaneously strengthens them to face challenges and prevents burnout. Participants' spiritual well-being was achieved through the program experience, strengthening them to face challenges and prevent burnout. It also served as a crucial foundation for developing the competencies of future Hajj and Umrah guides. These findings underscore the vital role of spiritual development in the professional education of mutawwif (traditional guides).
Copyright (c) 2026 Zahrany Tsabitah Noor Wibawa, Dr. H. Abdul Rozaq, M.S.I. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Integrating Spiritual Values and Social Attitudes in the Traditional Communication Media of Kampung Naga's Indigenous Community
This study analyzes the integration patterns of spiritual values and social attitudes manifested through traditional communication media in the Kampung Naga Indigenous Community, Tasikmalaya. As a community that remains steadfast in upholding ancestral traditions, the Kampung Naga community utilizes various forms of traditional communication, such as the advice of elders, the Hajat Sasih ritual, taboos, oral stories, village spatial structures, and the practice of mutual cooperation as the primary instruments for passing on cultural values. The results of the study indicate that spiritual values, including respect for God and ancestors, a cosmological understanding of the interconnectedness of humans with nature, and the principles of simple living, are directly integrated with social values through collective rituals, customary rules, and daily interactions. Each form of communication not only conveys spiritual teachings but also shapes social ethics, strengthens solidarity, and maintains order in communal life. This consistent integration creates a harmonious, disciplined, and togetherness-filled lifestyle, while demonstrating the Kampung Naga community's efforts to maintain its cultural identity and ancestral values from generation to generation. Thus, this study confirms that traditional communication has a fundamental role in maintaining the continuity of spiritual and social values, and is the main foundation for the formation of social cohesion and cultural sustainability in the Kampung Naga Indigenous community.
Copyright (c) 2026 Toteng Suhara, Dody S. Truna, Ilim Abdul Halim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Hajj and ʿUmrah Rituals in Religious Studies: Rodrigues-Harding's Theoretical Framework and Contemporary Media Analysis
The Hajj and Umrah rituals are central acts of worship in Islam, containing intertwined spiritual, social, cultural, economic, and political dimensions. In the context of globalization and advanced modernity, these rituals have undergone significant transformation, from traditional spiritual pilgrimage practices to global religious phenomena mediated by digital technology, the travel industry, and transnational market logic. This study aims to analyze the dynamics of this transformation through the religious studies approach developed by Hillary Rodrigues and John S. Harding, which rejects the reductive dichotomy between insider perspectives (faith, religious experience, and theological commitment) and outsider perspectives (critical academic analysis). This study uses an interdisciplinary qualitative approach with a library research design. Primary data sources include the Qur'an, hadith, and the theoretical works of Rodrigues and Harding, while secondary data sources include scientific journal articles, academic books, and contemporary studies on the Hajj, Umrah, and religion in the digital age. Data analysis is conducted through concept reduction, contextual interpretation, and theoretical synthesis by integrating theological, phenomenological, and sociological perspectives. The results of this study indicate that the Rodrigues–Harding approach allows for a more holistic understanding of the Hajj and Umrah as ritual practices that are simultaneously sacred and social. This study also finds that the commodification and mediatization of rituals in the contemporary era creates a paradox between the ideal of spiritual simplicity and the reality of material splendor, but at the same time opens up new spaces for the formation of global Muslim solidarity, including through digital media. The contribution of this study lies in strengthening the interdisciplinary analytical framework in the study of Islamic rituals that bridges faith and science, and offers a critical reflection on the spiritual meaning of the Hajj and Umrah amidst modern socio-cultural changes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Dimas Anugrah, Dody S. Truna, Raden Roro Sri Rejeki Waluyajati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Power and Leadership in Wawacan Abdul Muluk: Islamic Values in Classical Sundanese Manuscripts
This study examines the representation of power and leadership in the Wawacan Abdul Muluk, a classic Sundanese literary work that holds significant value in Indonesian literary heritage. Through textual analysis and literary hermeneutics, this study aims to identify the leadership values ​​contained in the manuscript, particularly those related to the concept of power from an Islamic perspective. The results show that Wawacan Abdul Muluk presents an ideal leadership model, emphasising three main dimensions: the legitimacy of power derived from noble descent and moral virtue; the exercise of power oriented towards justice and the welfare of the people; and the regeneration of leadership through education and character building. This manuscript reflects the integration of Islamic values ​​with the Sundanese leadership tradition, emphasizing the importance of morality, competence, and social responsibility in exercising power. The findings of this study contribute to understanding the concept of leadership in classical Indonesian literature and its relevance to the development of leadership grounded in local and Islamic values in the contemporary era.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Al Hafidz, Rian Ananda Putra, Dedi Supriadi, Asep Achmad Hidayat, Yan Nurcahya, Abdul Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Spiritual Healing and Self-Discovery in Independent Umrah: A Study of the Perceptions of Young Z Generation Pilgrims
This study aims to analyze the spiritual experiences, motivations, and self-transformation of young Z generation pilgrims who performed the Umrah independently in 2025. A qualitative approach was used with in-depth interviews with eight pilgrims, two mutawifs, and one Umrah travel agency manager. The results show that the decision to perform the Umrah independently is driven by spiritual needs, self-discovery, the need for flexibility, and the influence of social media. The most dominant emotional experiences arise during the moment of seeing the Kaaba and performing the tawaf, which gives rise to feelings of emotion, amazement, and a strong existential awareness. In addition to producing inner peace during the pilgrimage, the independent Umrah also encourages behavioral changes after returning home, especially in worship discipline, emotional management, and a more spiritual orientation. Travel challenges such as language barriers, navigation, and logistics actually strengthen the independence and problem-solving abilities of young pilgrims. This study concludes that the independent Umrah is a form of contemporary religiosity for Z generation that prioritizes authentic experiences, freedom, and self-development. These findings imply the need for Umrah service providers to adapt their approaches to suit the characteristics and needs of the increasingly independent and experience-oriented younger generation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adi Irawan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Epistemological Parallels and Divergences: A Comparative Analysis of Legal Maxims and Fiqhiyyah Rules and Their Implications for Contemporary Jurisprudence
This study aims to analyze the similarities and differences between legal maxims in the Western legal tradition and Islamic legal maxims from a comparative epistemological perspective. Using a qualitative literature study approach, the study explores the conceptual structure, sources, hierarchy, and theological, sociological, and juridical dimensions of both legal maxim systems. The results show that both serve as guidelines for legal reasoning and decision-making, providing a normative framework that guides consistency, fairness, and flexibility in legal practice. However, there are fundamental differences in their legitimacy and scope of application. Islamic maxims have a strong theological foundation, derived from the Qur'an, hadith, ijtihad, and scholarly consensus, and are structured in a systematic hierarchy from universal principles to applicable rules. These maxims also integrate vertical (human relations with God) and horizontal (human relations among humans) dimensions, thus creating a holistic and welfare-oriented legal approach. In contrast, legal maxims develop through jurisprudential practice and precedent, are more flexible, pragmatic, and focus on legal certainty and procedural justice in social interactions. This comparative analysis not only demonstrates functional similarities and normative objectives but also highlights the potential for epistemological integration between the two legal traditions. The research findings provide an important contribution to contemporary legal development, particularly in countries with pluralistic legal systems like Indonesia, where dialogue between Islamic and Western law can enrich national legal methodology, support the formation of adaptive, contextual, and equitable regulations, and equip practitioners and academics with more comprehensive insights.
Copyright (c) 2026 Raden Rara Rita Erawati, Neng Yani Nurhayani, Erika Rishan Adillah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Epistemological and Axiological Integration of Legal Maxims with Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah: Advancing Contemporary Islamic Jurisprudence
This study examines the integration of legal maxims' epistemology and axiology with maqāṣid al-sharīʿah to advance contemporary Islamic legal reform. Employing qualitative-descriptive analysis of classical texts (e.g., al-Shatibi's al-Muwafaqat, al-Ghazali's al-Mustasfa) and modern works (Jasser Auda, Ibn ʿĀshur), it highlights how maxims provide general epistemic principles from Shariah texts, while maqāṣid ensure axiological focus on benefit (jalb al-maṣlaḥah) and harm prevention (darʾ al-mafāsid). Findings reveal this synergy offers a robust basis for dynamic fiqh renewal, fostering adaptive rulings on economics, family law, technology, and environment, despite challenges like maqāṣid misuse, methodological variances, and classical limits. Ultimately, it proposes a contextual ijtihād paradigm enhancing maqāṣid-oriented uṣūl al-fiqh and equitable global policies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iib Hibaturohman, Asep Risnandar, Ricky Fattamazaya Munthe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Critical Discourse Analysis of “Criticism of the Representation of Islam in Western Media and the Role of Da’wah in Transformation” by Suud Sarim Karimullah
This study critically analyzes Suud Sarim Karimullah's article, "Criticism of the Representation of Islam in Western Media and the Role of Da'wah in Transformation," using Norman Fairclough's three-dimensional Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) model (text, discursive practice, social practice). It examines the article's discursive construction, legitimation strategies, and ideological tensions, including binary oppositions between "Western media" and "Islam," da'wah as dialogical "soft resistance," reverse essentialism, discursive hybridity, and the postcolonial intellectual's subject position. Through close reading of lexical choices, arguments, intertextuality, and social functions, the analysis reveals the text's sermonic-academic hybridity and its universalizing Islamic epistemology as a counter-hegemonic response. Findings urge da'wah practitioners to avoid reverse essentialism, embrace internal diversity in counter-narratives, and integrate critical reflexivity into media literacy education. This reflexive CDA application contributes to Islamic media studies and postcolonial discourse by illuminating paradoxes in counter-hegemonic knowledge production.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fathan Tibyan Rahman, Sajidin Sajidin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Commodifying Faith: Symbolic Economies in Media Constructions of the Cikande Halal Industrial Zone
This study investigates how government media construct the Halal Industrial Estate of Cikande (KIHC) as a religious-economic space through the commodification of sacred values. Drawing on key concepts such as religious commodification, Bourdieu’s symbolic capital, and the global halal economy, this research employs a qualitative design using Critical Discourse Analysis integrated with symbolic economy theory. The dataset consists of official press releases, social media posts and promotional materials issued by the Banten Provincial Government between 2019 and 2024. The findings reveal three major mechanisms: the resignification of religious symbols into commercial branding tools, the conversion of religious symbolic capital into economic capital, and the production of futuristic narratives that position KIHC as a center of moral-economic authority. The main methodological challenge arises from the exclusive reliance on government-produced discourse, which limits the study’s ability to capture public reception or contestation. Practically, the study recommends the development of ethical standards for public communication to prevent the reduction of religion into mere commercial branding. This research contributes to the study of religion and media by elucidating how the state deploys religious values as symbolic commodities within Indonesia’s halal industrial development. This article extends theoretical discussions on symbolic economy within the halal industry and offers a conceptual framework for understanding the interplay between religion, state authority, and capitalism in media discourse.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ikhsan Ahmad, Hamzah Turmudi, Asep Saeful Muhtadi, Zaenal Mukarom https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Islamic Apologetics in the Perspective of Religion and Development in the Digital Era
Digital Islamic apologetics has become a new phenomenon in the relationship between religion and socio-cultural development. Digital space, especially YouTube, has become not only an arena for the dissemination of religious teachings, but also a platform for the formation of new religious authorities that influence solidarity and polarization in society. This study uses qualitative methods to analyze the structure of religious messages presented in two Bang Zuma videos uploaded on YouTube based on Robert Entman's (1993) framing analysis. Insights from Craig's (2008) apologetic epistemology consisting of five models: classical, evidential, Reformed epistemology, Presuppositional and Cumulative Case, as well as Berger & Luckmann's social constructionism model will be used to understand the emergence and development of digital faith reality. The findings show that Bang Zuma's apologetics integrates Craig's four main models: evidential (analysis of biblical texts and history), presuppositional (the Qur'an as the standard of absolute truth), classical (philosophical arguments against the Trinity), and reformed epistemology (tawhid as human nature), which emphasizes the rational and moral defense of Islam. This message study affirms Islam as a rational and ethical religion, but also fosters an oppositional logic of "us versus them," reinforcing exclusive identities. Digital Islamic apologetics has a dual function: strengthening spiritual literacy and community solidarity (bonding social capital), but also potentially causing sociocultural polarization and narrowing the space for interfaith dialogue (bridging social capital). This research emphasizes the importance of a cumulative and moderate approach that integrates rationality, morality, and social empathy to make digital Islamic apologetics a moral and intellectual force in the development of an inclusive society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iman Mukhroman, Yusuf Zainal Abidin, Aep Kusnawan, Rohmanur Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Cultivating Islamic Virtue and Leadership: Strategic Management of Mosque-Based Youth Education as a Habituation Framework
As the nation's next generation, adolescents are highly vulnerable to the negative impacts of technological developments and globalization. One of the most obvious impacts is the shift in Islamic values in their daily lives. Furthermore, instilling leadership values is urgent, as adaptive leadership habits relevant to global dynamics are necessary from adolescence onward. The Mosque Youth Association (IRMA) is one such organization with the potential to be a strategic solution in fostering Islamic values while fostering leadership character. This study aims to describe the application of management functions, including planning, organizing, implementing, and supervising, to support the instillation of Islamic values and leadership through IRMA activities. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach, with data triangulation techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation to obtain a comprehensive picture of the phenomenon under study. The results indicate that management functions have been implemented effectively. In the planning stage, the program is systematically structured through goal setting, member recruitment mechanisms, and annual program development. The organizing stage is evident in the structured division of tasks and the provision of resources to support activities. Program implementation proceeded according to schedule with active member participation, while monitoring was conducted through periodic evaluation and reporting of activity results. This study concluded that sound management enabled IRMA's activities to be effective and sustainable in fostering Islamic values and youth leadership.
Copyright (c) 2026 Awaludin Sidik, Fitriyani Kosasih https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Empirical Contributions of Islamic Religious Education to the Cultivation of Noble Morality and Student Character Formation in the Paradigm of Holistic Education
Islamic religious education plays a vital role in fostering noble morals and character development in students, particularly adolescents. In this case, students of SMAN 3 Bogor, especially in the context of the holistic education era that emphasizes the integration of cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects. This article examines how Islamic religious education can systematically contribute to producing students who are not only knowledgeable but also virtuous. Through a review of previous literature and an analytical approach using descriptive-qualitative methods, this study highlights the gap in understanding the comprehensive implementation of Islamic religious education in student character development in modern educational institutions. The results of the study indicate that Islamic religious education effectively strengthens moral and character development through a contextual and adaptive approach to religious values, meeting the demands of the times. This study provides strategic recommendations for developing a holistic curriculum and character development based on Islamic values that are more integrative and applicable. Thus, this article is expected to enrich the academic treasury while providing a practical contribution to the development of religious education in the era of holistic education. Islamic religious education plays a strategic role as a bulwark against these challenges. Through the practice of worship, students can be shaped into resilient individuals who are not easily influenced by negative external factors. In conclusion, Islamic Religious Education plays a vital role in shaping students' character holistically from an early age.
Copyright (c) 2026 Enung Herawati, Iskandar Mirza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Strategic Management of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) for Enhancing Religious Character Development Among High School Students
The implementation of the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model at SMA Negeri 1 Ciracap and SMA Negeri 1 Surade, Sukabumi Regency, West Java, plays a crucial role in shaping students' religious character. This study aims to explain how PjBL management is implemented as a strategy for strengthening religious values in the Islamic Religious Education learning process. Using a qualitative descriptive case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation with Islamic Religious Education teachers, principals, and students. The results show that project planning was systematically structured by integrating spiritual values, such as digital da'wah materials, social and religious practices, and moral strengthening. Teachers acted as facilitators, guiding students to be responsible, collaborate, and relate each project to Islamic teachings. The evaluation process was comprehensive, not only assessing the final product but also evaluating the learning process, spiritual goals, and changes in students' religious behavior. The applied management emphasized active collaboration between teachers, students, and the school to create a religious, participatory, and character-building learning culture. In line with the Pancasila Student Profile, this study concludes that effective PjBL management is an innovative approach to improving students' religious character and providing practical guidance for Islamic Religious Education educators and school policymakers in developing a curriculum that balances academic, moral, and spiritual aspects.
Copyright (c) 2026 Feri Firmansyah Athori, Basnang Said https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Walimatus Safar: Strengthening Mental and Spiritual Readiness for Prospective Hajj Pilgrims
This study aims to analyze the impact of the Walimatus Safar tradition on the mental and spiritual readiness of prospective Hajj pilgrims before their departure for the Holy Land. This tradition is a deeply rooted socio-religious practice in Muslim society and is often understood as a form of prayer, support, and gratitude before the Hajj pilgrimage. This study seeks to explore the meaning directly experienced by prospective pilgrims and assess the tradition's contribution to strengthening their psychological and spiritual readiness. The study used a qualitative, phenomenological approach to understand participants' subjective experiences. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation of the Walimatus Safar ceremony, and reflections on the researcher's experiences. Analysis was conducted by interpreting these experiences to identify key themes related to mental and spiritual readiness. The results show that Walimatus Safar plays a significant role in enhancing the mental readiness of prospective Hajj pilgrims. Social support from family, relatives, and the community provides emotional reinforcement that can reduce anxiety, foster a sense of calm, and increase self-confidence as one faces the long and challenging pilgrimage. Furthermore, the atmosphere of togetherness created also strengthens the pilgrims' psychological resilience. From a spiritual perspective, this tradition serves as a reflective moment that encourages the internalization of the values of sincerity, humility, and an awareness of the meaning of the Hajj pilgrimage as a divine calling. The Walimatus Safar (preparation for the journey) helps prospective pilgrims affirm their intentions, deepen their religious awareness, and strengthen their commitment to carrying out the pilgrimage earnestly. Thus, this tradition is not merely ceremonial but serves an essential psychological and spiritual function in the Hajj preparation process.
Copyright (c) 2026 Alif Daffa Ryanditya, Anasom Anasom https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Model of Pastoral Ministry for Priests in the Light of the Document Evangelii Gaudium
In the document Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis emphasises that the Church today faces serious challenges from secular culture, including consumerism, materialism, and individualism. These cultural dynamics pose significant obstacles to the realisation of authentic pastoral ministry. This article focuses on the ministry of priests within this context, particularly in urban settings in Indonesia, where such challenges are increasingly evident. In practice, some priests are confronted with temptations influenced by secular values, such as attachment to comfort zones, the pursuit of recognition, and a tendency toward a more luxurious, less missionary lifestyle. This study aims to propose a model of pastoral ministry, inspired by Evangelii Gaudium, that responds to contemporary challenges. Employing a qualitative approach through literature review and theological reflection, the study analyses key themes in the document in dialogue with biblical texts, especially the Gospels. The findings highlight three essential forms of pastoral ministry: a ministry that goes beyond the comfort zone, a compassionate ministry rooted in mercy, and a dialogical ministry grounded in listening and participation. These models are expected to provide a relevant, contextual framework for priests to carry out their mission more authentically and effectively. Ultimately, this study contributes to the renewal of pastoral ministry by integrating theological foundations with the concrete realities faced by priests in today’s world.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vinsensius Hulu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Ritual as the Primordial Nexus: Bellah's Evolutionary Framework for Social Solidarity and Cultural Identity
The Ritual Roots of Society and Culture of Bellah’s work (2005) in the Handbook of the Sociology of Religion discusses ritual as the foundation of society and culture through an interdisciplinary perspective. Bellah integrates Durkheim’s (1912/1995) theory of collective effervescence, Collins (1998) on the rituals of everyday interaction, Deacon (1997) on the origins of symbolic language, and Rappaport (1999) who divides the meaning of ritual into three levels: low as information, middle as metaphor, and high as unity of self with others. Bellah argues that ritual is not just a religious practice but a basic social action that shapes solidarity, morality, and collective meaning, from human evolution to modern life, including elections and public events. A critical analysis shows the strengths of this article, namely its integration of cross-disciplinary theories, its depth of evolutionary perspectives, and its contemporary relevance. However, there are limitations, including minimal exploration of scepticism, speculative empirical examples, and a focus on the Western context. The application of Bellah’s theory to Indonesian and Sundanese culture is demonstrated through the rituals of Cokaiba Maluku, Seren Taun, traditional weddings, and angklung music, which strengthen mutual cooperation and communal identity. In the context of Islam, worship rituals such as prayer, zakat, fasting, and the pilgrimage align with Bellah’s concept, supported by Qur’anic verses such as Al-Baqarah: 43 and Al-Hujurat: 10, which foster communal solidarity amidst cultural diversity. Overall, Bellah’s theory asserts that ritual is a crucial mechanism for creating social harmony and preserving cultural identity, relevant to the challenges of globalization and secularism. The emphasis on collective meaning and solidarity makes ritual a vital instrument in maintaining social, moral, and cultural balance in contemporary society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ridha Herdiani, Yeni Huriani, Rahimin Abdul Rahim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Strategic Management and Digitalization: Elevating Islamic Education Quality in the Global Era
The development of globalization and the digital era requires Islamic educational institutions to implement strategic management and digital transformation to improve the quality and competitiveness of institutions. This study uses a qualitative, comparative case study design across two institutions: the Addzimat Dai Indonesia Islamic Boarding School and SMPIT Qordova. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation analysis. The results show that integrating strategic management, digital transformation, and transformational leadership significantly improves the quality of education. SMPIT Qordova has successfully implemented the EMIS and LMS systems, while the Addzimat Islamic Boarding School has begun implementing digital learning that remains rooted in Islamic values. However, the study also found several obstacles, particularly in digital infrastructure and technological literacy, which are not evenly distributed across the two institutions. Strategic management integrated with a culture of quality and the use of digital technology has been proven to improve the efficiency of Islamic education governance. Digital transformation plays a role in strengthening transparency, managerial effectiveness, and real-time quality data management. This research offers a conceptual framework that can be replicated by other Islamic educational institutions to formulate evidence-based policies that strengthen quality, innovation, and competitiveness in the global and digital era.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fuad Sahrul Wafa, Endi Suhendi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) in the Perspectives of Philosophy, Neuroscience, Neuro-Psychology, and Tasawuf
This study critically examines Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) through the combined lenses of philosophy and modern neuroscience. It aims to investigate how NLP conceptualizes the relationship between mind, language, and embodied experience, and to what extent its theoretical foundations align with contemporary understandings of consciousness. Employing a qualitative, library-based methodology using conceptual analysis, hermeneutics, and comparative neurocognitive review, this study analyzes primary NLP formulations by Bandler and Grinder alongside philosophical perspectives from Wittgenstein, Merleau-Ponty, and Gadamer, as well as neuroscientific findings on neuroplasticity, mirror neurons, and predictive processing. The findings reveal that NLP provides a constructivist model of consciousness in which meaning, perception, and behavior emerge from the dynamic interaction of neural processes, linguistic structures, and subjective experience. However, its scientific validity remains limited due to the scarcity of consistent empirical evidence, and several NLP techniques rely heavily on anecdotal claims. The study also finds that NLP’s theoretical framework tends to simplify complex ontological questions about consciousness, indicating the need for deeper engagement with phenomenology and neurophilosophy. A major limitation of this research lies in its reliance on textual analysis without empirical examination of NLP practices in therapeutic or cultural settings. Practically, the study recommends a more rigorous integration of NLP with contemporary neuroscience and ethical guidelines to prevent misuse in interpersonal communication, therapy, and political persuasion. Contribution: This research contributes to the philosophy of mind by proposing a synthesis of NLP with neuroscience and phenomenology, presenting it as a Neuro-Linguistic-Phenomenological Programming framework. Practically, it offers a conceptual foundation for the responsible application of NLP in education, communication, and religious or spiritual studies, emphasizing ethical awareness and evidence-based practice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhamad Atamimi, Muhtar Solihin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Integrated PJBL-PBL Management: Strengthening Character Values in Vocational Education in Bandung City
This study addresses the importance of strengthening students’ character in the global era, when conventional learning often fails to integrate cognition and values. It examines the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a learning model combining Project-Based Learning and Problem-Based Learning, and its implications for character values in vocational high schools. Using a qualitative multi-site case study at SMK Negeri 12 and SMK Vijaya Kusuma, Bandung, the study involved teachers and students through observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings show that the model was implemented systematically through relevant projects/problems, dynamic group organization, and authentic assessment, with Islamic Religious Education teachers playing a key role as character facilitators. This approach improved students’ independence, collaboration, creativity, and responsibility through active engagement in real-world problem-solving and work production. The study concludes that the combined model is effective and relevant for vocational education because it strengthens both vocational competence and character formation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iqbal Hilman, Ahmad Sukandar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Historical Positivism and Axiological Criticism: A Critique of Qur'anic Reasoning on 20th-Century Indonesian Islamic Historiography
The writing of Islamic history (historiography) in Indonesia throughout the 20th century has experienced very rapid methodological progress, but on the other hand, faces serious challenges related to the drought of axiological values. This article aims to conduct a critical analysis of the development of 20th-century Indonesian Islamic historiography using Qur'anic reasoning as an analytical tool. The method used is qualitative with an intellectual history approach and discourse analysis. The results of the study show that the transition from traditional historiography to the academic-scientific tradition, pioneered by figures such as Hoesein Djajadiningrat and Azyumardi Azra, has succeeded in placing the history of Islam in the archipelago in a competitive global scientific standard. However, the dominance of the positivist paradigm in these Muslim works tends to reduce religious phenomena to mere empirical variables separated from transcendental values. Axiological criticism based on Qur'anic reasoning offers a new orientation that views history not only as an objective reconstruction of the past, but also as an instrument of social transformation and a moral message ('ibrah) for the future (li-ghad). This article concludes with the need to synthesize the sophistication of modern methodology with the Islamic worldview to produce a historiography that is not only scientifically accurate but also spiritually meaningful and emancipatory for human civilization.
Copyright (c) 2026 Moeflich Hasbullah, Asep Saeful Mimbar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Development of Anti-Radicalism Education Model at Miftahul Huda Al-Azhar Pesantren During COVID-19: A Descriptive Study in Banjar, West Java
This study aims to critically examine the development of an adaptive educational model at Miftahul Huda Al-Azhar Islamic Boarding School in maintaining the quality of students (santri) and mitigating the risks of radicalism during the Covid-19 pandemic. The primary focus lies in the synchronization of traditional values with digital disruption, incorporating key concepts such as ideological immunity, religious moderation (Tawasut), and educational crisis management. Adopting a qualitative descriptive method with participant observation and in-depth interviews, the scope encompasses digital curriculum transformation, productive quarantine policies, and cross-sector strategic collaboration in Banjar City. The findings indicate that integrating nationalistic values into digital platforms and reinforcing mental health through intensive counseling effectively counters radical narratives that exploit social vulnerabilities during crises. Critical challenges identified include digital infrastructure disparities and the limitation of physical interaction, which affects spiritual transmission. This study recommends adopting an inclusive blended learning model and strengthening synergy between educational institutions and security agencies as a prototype for national resilience. This research contributes to the discourse on contemporary Islamic education by formulating a pedagogical framework that bridges traditional ideological protection with modern technological flexibility in facing global disruptions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dewi Sadiah, Mustofa Mustofa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Beyond Words: Classifying Critiques of Linguistic Exegesis in Classical Tafsir
This article examines a critical study of linguistic exegesis. Linguistic interpretation constitutes one of the principal approaches in Qur’anic exegesis. However, in practice, this approach has at times produced interpretations that deviate from the rules of the Arabic language, the contextual meaning of the verses, and established methodologies of Qur’anic interpretation. In modern Qur’anic studies, such deviations are often classified as part of al-dakhīl fī al-tafsīr. Therefore, criticism of linguistic exegesis should not be viewed as a rejection of language itself, but rather as an effort to preserve the objectivity of interpreting divine revelation. This article aims to classify the forms of criticism directed at linguistic interpretation and to present their examples in classical exegetical works. This study employs a qualitative method with a library research approach, examining works of Qur’anic exegesis and Qur’anic sciences. The findings indicate that criticism of linguistic exegesis can be categorized into three main forms: first, criticism of lexical interpretation; second, criticism of the application of grammatical rules; and third, criticism of the use of Qur’anic readings (qira’at) within the linguistic approach to Qur’anic interpretation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Roni Sahroni, Muhamad Nasehudin, Muhammad Ulinnuha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Islamic Character Values in Hikayat Masyhud al-Hakk Volume II: A Philological and Cultural Analysis
This article examines the values ​​of Islamic character in Hikayat Masyhud al-Hakk, volume II, through a philological approach and cultural analysis. This manuscript is not only a literary heritage but also a medium for character education, full of Islamic moral and spiritual values. This study aims to reveal forms of values ​​such as ḥikmah (wisdom), sidq (honesty), amanah (responsibility), shajāʿah (moral courage), tawakkul, and ikhlāṣ (sincerity), which are articulated in the actions and dialogues of the main characters, and enriched by the context of traditional Malay culture. The results of the study show that this tale combines Islamic values ​​with socio-customary norms through language symbolism, narrative structure, and local idioms. These findings emphasize the importance of classical tales as a source of character learning that is relevant to modern education based on local wisdom.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ach Hakiki, Dedi Supriadi, Jajang A. Rohmana, Usman Supendi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
A Smart Transparency-Based Islamic Education Financing Strategy: Reconstructing Fiscal Planning in the Digital Era
The main challenge of Islamic Education Management (IEM) today lies in the stagnation of financing innovation, which still relies on conventional schemes and remains highly dependent on government support. This condition has an impact on limited space for innovation, low flexibility in budget management, and minimal transparency and accountability in the financial governance of Islamic educational institutions. This study aims to deconstruct the strategic planning framework for Islamic education financing by integrating the Smart Transparency approach as a basis for adaptive financial governance in the context of digital transformation. The study uses a qualitative method, with a literature-based case study approach, to critically analyse various education financing management models and digital governance practices in the public sector. The results show that the effectiveness of financing Islamic educational institutions is largely determined by two main factors: the digitalization of the financial governance system and the diversification of non-governmental funding sources, including Islamic philanthropy, strategic partnerships, and educational entrepreneurial innovation. The novelty of this study lies in the formulation of the Digital Fiscal Accountability (DFA) model that integrates digital transparency, technology-based financial reporting, and participatory control mechanisms as a preventive strategy to minimize budget inefficiency and strengthen public accountability in the management of Islamic education financing.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iska Fatmawati, Badrudin Badrudin, Qiqi Yuliati Zaqiah, Eva Saufana, Ade Abdullah Sidiq https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Contextual Qur'anic Studies through Phenomenology: An Analysis of Ninian Smart’s Dimensions of Religion
This article examines the application of the phenomenological approach to religion, particularly Ninian Smart's seven-dimensional model, in the context of the Qur’an. The study aims to explore how these dimensions ritual, narrative, doctrinal, ethical/legal, social, emotional, and material are represented in the Qur’anic text and to assess their relevance for contemporary interpretive methodologies. Using a qualitative-descriptive method and thematic analysis of relevant verses, the findings reveal that the Qur’an encompasses all seven religious dimensions. This suggests that the Qur’an not only conveys theological doctrines and legal injunctions but also constructs a multifaceted structure of religious experience. The article highlights the strengths of Smart’s approach in bridging divine revelation with lived religious realities, while also cautioning against the epistemological risks of reducing revelation to mere subjective experience. These insights offer new avenues for developing thematic Qur’anic exegesis and multidimensional Islamic education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nida Husna Abdul Malik, Rifki Rosyad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Dilemma of Islamic Rationalism: A Critical Study of Bassam Tibi’s Thought in Modernity
This study critically examines Bassam Tibi’s concept of Islamic rationalism within the context of modernity. It aims to explore how Tibi distinguishes between Islam as a universal ethical system and Islamism as a political ideology that often rejects rationality and pluralism. Employing a qualitative, library-based approach with content analysis and critical hermeneutics, the study analyzes Tibi’s major works—especially Islamism and Islam—and related scholarly debates on the relationship between Islam, rationality, and modernity. The findings reveal that Tibi proposes a revival of Islamic rationalism as a response to the epistemological crisis in the Muslim world, yet his framework remains influenced by Eurocentric notions of modernity. Conversely, Muslim thinkers such as Harun Nasution, Nurcholish Madjid, and al-Attas advocate for a reconstruction of Islamic rationality grounded in tawhid and spirituality. The study’s main limitation lies in its reliance on textual analysis without empirical validation of how Tibi’s ideas operate in non-Western Muslim societies. Practically, it recommends educational reform that integrates religious and modern sciences, promotes rational literacy, and fosters critical dialogue between Islamic tradition and global modernity. This research contributes to Islamic philosophy by emphasizing the synthesis between rationality and spirituality. Practically, it offers a conceptual framework for Islamic education and intellectual reform to engage constructively with modernity while maintaining ethical and theological integrity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Andri Lupias Satedy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Reconfiguring Muhammadiyah’s Intellectual-Political Thought in Strengthening Civil Society from the Jokowi Era to the Prabowo–Gibran Era
The relationship between religion and state in Indonesia since the Reformation era has been characterized by complex dynamics, with religious organizations playing a crucial role in balancing state power and civil society interests. In this context, Muhammadiyah has long served as a key actor in Islamic civil society, serving both as a counterbalancing force to the state and as a driver of social transformation. This study examines the transformation of Muhammadiyah's intellectual-political thinking in response to shifting power configurations and democratic dynamics during the Joko Widodo administration and the transition to the Prabowo Subianto–Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration. Using a qualitative approach based on desk research and limited interviews, the study finds that Muhammadiyah's political thinking has evolved into a more strategic and adaptive orientation. This transformation reflects Muhammadiyah's efforts to reinterpret its political role through social da'wah (Islamic outreach) and national responsibility while maintaining its identity as a progressive Islamic movement. It also strengthens civil society through critical, participatory, and collaborative engagement in public policy, social services, and humanitarian diplomacy. Overall, Muhammadiyah offers a constructive model of religion-state relations that combines organizational independence, public participation, and a commitment to democratic values ​​and social justice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yudaningsih Yudaningsih, Asep Saeful Muhtadi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Reading the Soul of Yayat Rukhiyat in Si Rawing: The Spiritual Transformation of a Fictional Character in a Digital Narrative on the Radio Cakra Bandung YouTube Channel
This study investigates the spiritual transformation of the main character in the Sundanese folktale series Si Rawing, broadcast on the YouTube channel Radio Cakra Bandung. Employing a qualitative content analysis and grounded in James Fowler’s theory of faith development, this research explores how the character’s inner journey reflects a shift from emotional and mythic-literal faith stages to more reflective and universal forms of spiritual awareness. Drawing on a religious psychology approach, the study also examines how the story embodies the lived spiritual experiences of its author, Yayat Rukhiyat. Findings reveal that Si Rawing is not merely a fictional hero but a symbolic projection of the author’s personal struggle with ego, suffering, and the pursuit of inner peace (wening panggalih). The narrative weaves together elements of Sundanese wisdom, Islamic spiritual values, and philosophical reflections into a coherent story of transformation. Moreover, the digital medium of YouTube allows this narrative to transcend local boundaries, making it accessible to a wider audience and reinforcing the role of digital platforms in preserving and transmitting traditional values. By integrating religious psychology, cultural narrative, and digital ethnography, this study offers a novel contribution to the field of digital spirituality and local cultural studies. It demonstrates how fictional narratives can serve as vehicles for both autobiographical reflection and moral-spiritual education, especially within culturally rooted digital spaces.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ucep Hermawan, Dadang Kuswana https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Redistributing Equity: A Contemporary Analysis of Justice in Islamic Economic Thought
Islam has a universal concept of a system of life and forms a complete order to regulate human life. As a guideline for life, Islam regulates various social, educational, and economic aspects. Islam has formulated an economic system based on sharia. Many economic problems can lead to social inequality. This inequality begins with an economic system that lacks a just perspective. Therefore, in this case, the researcher is interested in comprehensively examining the concept of justice from an Islamic economic perspective. This research utilizes literature from books, articles, and other sources related to the research theme. The results of the study indicate that justice from a Sharia economic perspective can be understood as economic activities carried out fairly by economic actors and without acts of oppression against others. Islam views justice as an obligatory and absolute provision as a crucial element in social and humanitarian life. Justice is a provision mandated by Allah SWT for all people in the world without exception.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lina Elpina https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0