The phenomenon of “celebrity ustadz” in Indonesia on the ethics of dakwahtainment

摘要

One of the most striking trend of ‘Popular Islam’ in Indonesia is the emerging of celebrity ustadz within the lastuddecade. This phenomenon portrays a modern and fashionable Islam, however, it is also fears to degrade virtuousudvalues of ustadz. This phenomenon appears prominently along with the political reformation in Indonesia in the lateudof 1990s. The emerging celebrity ustadzs with glamorous life-style and highly exposure to public have changed notudmerely the image of ustadz and the interaction pattern between ustadz and the followers (umma), but also gave riseudwhat the so-called “dakwahtainment.” Now, here is the interaction between ustadz (like an idol-artist) with his fansudor followers. This trend also represents an ideal blend between religion (Islam), television industry, and capitalism.udThe commodification of Islam is obvious, with superficial actors, producers, and consumers. From both, the measure of the ethics of Ulamaship (traditional clerical moral qualifications) and ethics of dakwah, the phenomenon of ustadz udceleb is a new Islamic culture that is unethical. Therefore, many Indonesian Muslims, especially Muslim intelligentsia,udwere very disappointed. In fact, it causes a lot of cynicism. The ustadz profession, especially celebrity ustadz, is nowudconsidered “low”, and the only thing that is “high” seem to be their rate and theirlife style.