Between Arab Islam, Indonesian Islam, or Other Islams

Dear readers,

In today's interconnected world, the diversity of Islamic practices and interpretations has become more evident. It raises questions about the differences between Arab Islam, Indonesian Islam, and other variations of Islam. To shed light on this topic, we have prepared an article that explores the various facets of Islamic practices across different regions and cultures. We invite you to join us in spreading awareness and understanding by sharing this blog post with your English-speaking friends and acquaintances. Together, let's foster dialogue and appreciation for the diverse expressions of Islam.

Between Arab Islam, Indonesian Islam, or Other Islams

Lately, many people associate Islam with place names, ethnicities, or even the names of countries, giving rise to terms like Arab Islam, Kalimantan Islam, Javanese Islam, Nusantara Islam, and undoubtedly many other designations. Such labeling may not be a problem because true Islam is universal and becomes diverse when accepted by specific ethnicities, regions, or nations.

The intended differences are not fundamental but rather branch-like. For example, in Indonesia, many Muslims wear taqwa robes, sarongs, and fez caps in their daily lives. Of course, not everyone does so, as there are still many others who dress differently. Similarly, people from Pakistan, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and others also appear distinct from one another. Just by observing their attire, one can recognize whether they are from Sudan, Morocco, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and so on.

Many Indonesians are adaptable, so when they go for Umrah or Hajj, they wear batik uniforms. However, upon their return, they buy clothes commonly worn by people from Pakistan. They wear these clothes in their daily lives, leading their neighbors to whisper that they now dress like Arabs after Hajj. In reality, it's not the attire of Saudis but rather that of Bangladeshis or Pakistanis. Such a situation may not be a problem, but it often leads to misunderstandings. People assume that after Hajj or Umrah, one must change their clothing to Arab attire, whereas what should actually change is the quality of their piety.

Some time ago, with the existence of various Islamic identities, someone asked me which form of Islam I follow. In response, I stated that I strive to follow the Islam brought by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Such an answer is easily understood, but it can certainly invite debate. However, as usual, I prefer not to debate about religion, especially when it comes to the Quran and the Hadiths of the Prophet. I always adhere to the principle that the Quran should not be debated or refuted. Engaging in arguments and differences of opinion often leads to either victory or defeat. Those who win usually become arrogant, while those who lose become disappointed. Yet, arrogance and disappointment are qualities that Islam teaches us to avoid. Furthermore, the Quran also prohibits engaging in argumentation to prevent weakening and losing its strength.

Indeed, professing to follow Islam according to Prophet Muhammad turns out to be no easy task. After the departure of Prophet Jesus for approximately five centuries, many people abandoned his teachings, and then Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent. But until now, it has been about fifteen centuries since Prophet Muhammad left us. The Quran and the Hadiths, which are the sources of Islamic teachings and should be the guidance for Muslims, have been understood and interpreted by various scholars and intellectuals, leading to unavoidable differences.

The emergence of various schools of thought, sects, groups, organizations, and others is the result of different interpretations and understandings of these two aforementioned sources of Islamic teachings. The multitude of interpretations makes it understandable that Muslims themselves, especially the common people, become confused. The easiest way for them is to follow the scholars they know. Naturally, it differs for someone like me who freely reads the Quran, the Hadiths of the Prophet, and reflects on what I read. Eventually, I choose what aligns best with my conscience. I believe that the voice of the heart does not lie, so that's the path I follow, and I refer to it as Islam according to the Prophet and his Companions, not by any other names. Wallahu a'lam.