Indonesia, Islam in
Overview
Indonesia, by 2001, boasted the largest Muslim population globally. The country’s population, over 180 million strong at the beginning of the 21st century, comprised between 85 and 90 percent Muslims, predominantly adhering to the Sunni branch and the Shāfi’ī school of Islamic jurisprudence.
Historical Arrival and Spread
Islam (الإسلام) arrived in Indonesia during the 13th century through traders and religious scholars accompanying them. By the 18th century, Islam had become the majority religion, primarily through peaceful and commercial engagements rather than conquest. Prominent during this period were the Sufis (صوفيين / Sûfiler in Turkish), whose mystical practices and tolerance incorporated many local traditions, which also led to a distinctive blending of Islamic, Hindu, and other non-Islamic customs.
Reformism and Modern Influence
The 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the rise of Islamic reformism, which critiqued non-Islamic practices within the faith. Islam took on a greater communal and political role during this era, particularly as a unifying identity opposing European colonialism and addressing Indonesia’s intricate ethnic and linguistic tapestry.
Pancasila and National Ideology
Following independence in 1945, Pancasila (پانچاسيلا / Pankasila in Turkish) was adopted as Indonesia’s national ideology. This set of five principles reflected a commitment to a secular, pluralistic view of religion’s role within the state framework, emphasizing unity in diversity.
Rise of Islamism and Modern Political Dynamics
The 1960s onwards saw increased Islamic missionary work and a rise in Islamism (الإسلامية / İslamcılık in Turkish). The late 1970s marked the onset of more radical elements resorting to violence, demanding a greater presence of Islam in Indonesia’s political realm. Tensions between different religious groups grew, particularly Christian-Muslim dynamics. The election of Abdurrahman Wahid in 1999 briefly marked an era promising reduced violence and a strengthened Islamic governance role until his ousting by the parliament in 2001.
Etymology and Translations
- Islam (الإسلام) - Arabic word meaning “submission” or “surrender,” reflecting submission to the will of God.
- Indonesia - From the Greek ‘Indos’ (India) and ’nesos’ (island), collectively meaning “Indian Islands.”
- Pancasila - Indonesian term derived from the Sanskrit words “Panca” (five) and “Sila” (principles).
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “A History of Modern Indonesia Since c. 1200” by M.C. Ricklefs
- “Indonesian Islam: Social Change through Contemporary Fatawa” by M. Syafiq Mughni
- “Muslim Puritans: Reformist Psychology in Southeast Asian Islam” by James L. Peacock
Key Takeaways
- Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim population.
- Islam spread peacefully in Indonesia, predominantly through trade and Sufi teachings.
- Local traditions have influenced Indonesian Islamic practices.
- Pancasila symbolizes Indonesia’s approach to balancing secularism and religious pluralism.
- The country experienced significant reformist and Islamist movements, particularly amid post-colonial identity consolidation.
Conclusion
The evolution and adaptation of Islam in Indonesia exemplify the dynamic interplay between religion, culture, and politics. The nation’s unique approach through Pancasila seeks harmony amid diverse religious expressions, even as it navigates through periodic Islamic reformist stirrings and political challenges. Indonesia’s history offers a rich study for understanding the multifaceted nature of Islam and its regional influence.
