The Distinctiveness of Islam in Indonesia and Its Adaption to Local Cultures

As a Muslim from Indonesia, the differences between Indonesian Islam and Middle Eastern Islam are stark. In Middle Eastern countries, the Islamic faith is deeply intertwined with Arab culture, while in Indonesia, Islamic practices blend seamlessly with the country's diverse local cultures such as Java, Sunda, Minang, Malay, Bugis, and Betawi.

In Indonesia, we do not adhere to Sharia laws but follow Pancasila, the philosophical foundation of the state, which promotes civil liberties and pluralism. This coexistence of Muslims with non-Muslims, including Buddhists, Christians, Catholics, Hindus, Confucians, and Jews, reflects the inclusive nature of Indonesian society.

Differences in Islamic Practices

A fascinating distinction in Islamic practices can be observed by comparing the daily prayers of Indonesian Muslims to those practiced in different parts of the world. For instance, the final prayer call (tahiyat) during the early morning Fajr prayer in Indonesia traditionally includes 'tawaruk' (the invocation for good deeds and blessings), a practice unique to the Shafi'i madhab. This tradition is not as common in other regions, where many Muslims use 'iftirasy' instead. Upon further investigation, it was found that those not using 'tawaruk' were from the Hanafi madhab, another significant Sunni school of thought.

Moreover, the historical relationship between Islam and Indonesian cultures is noteworthy. While Islam, historically, has been iconoclast and discourages the use of images, especially of humans and animals to prevent idol worship, Islamic preachers in Indonesia took a different approach. They recognized the importance of local cultural practices and integrated them into the spread of Islam. This adaptation is exemplified by the use of shadow puppetry (wayang) to promote Islamic values. Trajectory wayang, a traditional form from Bali, was modified to minimize human-like features, reflected in

Indonesian wayang, featuring longer hands, necks, and noses, to symbolize non-human qualities. This modification allowed the continuation of local traditions while preserving Islamic principles. This approach led to a more nuanced understanding of Islam in Indonesia, setting it apart from the more stringent interpretations found in much of the Middle East.

Adapting Islam to Local Cultures

The integration of local customs and traditions into Islamic practices in Indonesia has given rise to a unique form of Islam known as 'Islam Nusantara'. Unlike the strict, often conservative interpretations of Islam found in the Middle East, Indonesia embraces a more moderate and tolerant form of the faith. This approach has allowed Indonesian Muslims to coexist harmoniously with their non-Muslim neighbors, fostering a sense of pluralism and respect for cultural diversity.

Islam Nusantara is characterized by its affability towards non-Muslims and its recognition of the cultural heritage of Indonesia. Unlike the Middle Eastern perspective, which may view non-Muslims as infidels, Indonesian Islam sees them as fellow citizens with full equality. This attitude has led to a respect for local traditions, such as the Hindu-Buddhist influences present in many aspects of Indonesian life. The close relationships between Indonesian Muslims and non-Muslims are a testament to the inclusive nature of 'Islam Nusantara'.

In conclusion, the Islamic faith in Indonesia is a vibrant and adaptive tradition that blends with the richness of local cultures. From the daily prayers with 'tawaruk' to the use of modified shadow puppets, Indonesian Islam reflects a nuanced, moderate, and tolerant approach that has made it a unique and influential form of the world's second-largest religion. This distinctiveness sets it apart from the more rigid interpretations found in the Middle East and highlights the importance of cultural adaptation in religious practice.