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| Online studies which are currently booming in society. (Foto: Freepik) |
In the era of digital connectivity, many aspects of life have been adjusted. This includes religious preaching (da'wah). The availability of virtual connections provides an opportunity to participate in da'wah studies regardless of the presence in person.
For millennials and Z generations who understand technology, religious studies through online networks are an effective method of da'wah. It was conveyed by a lecturer in Islamic Religious Education (IRE) at the Faculty of Islamic Religion (FIR), University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), Nafik Muthohirin, S.Pd.I., MA. Hum. This is proven by the term "Ustaz Medsos," which often appears with a cool style and a da'wah presentation easily understood by the youth.
"Generally, up to date, online-based Islamic da'wah is very effective in targeting the Muslim in the middle group, which is basically the largest active internet user in Indonesia. In addition, the existence of social media preachers has made the appearance of various Islamic da'wah communities in cyberspace, such as One Day One Juz, Hijrah Youth Shift, and other youth hijrah events, proving that online media is very effective as a da'wah space," he added.
Although Nafik agrees on the effectiveness of proselytizing through social networks, he says that this phenomenon also has its challenges. According to Nafik, several things need to be considered. For example, consider the pedagogical function of Ustaz, kyai, Ulama, or religious teachers.
"We can get religious knowledge from YouTube, Instagram, or various video lectures in WhatsApp groups. However, the exemplary attitude and character building of a kyai or ustaz in a pesantren or madrasa will not be obtained from these media," he said.
Therefore, online Islamic studies cannot be used as the primary style of religious learning because it eliminates this pedagogical aspect. Furthermore, not all Islamic da'wah content on social media provides a reconciling message. There are also many Islamic da'wah contents that irresponsible people make to spread hostility and hatred towards other groups and religions. In fact, they also promote a political identity containing the doctrine of terrorism and religious radicalism.
"Online-based Islamic content and da'wah are good alternative learning spaces. However, people still need a depth of literacy or learning from an authoritative religious expert, such as Muhammadiyah or NU scholars," he said.
Finally, Nafik advised that even though Ustaz is popular and loved by the public, the content of his lectures must be analyzed more deeply. "To confirm this, a person can do a deeper study through existing religious literature," he concluded. (rev/wil/put)
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