Before I start writing this book review. The book is entitled "Religion is Love, Love is Religion" (Agama adalah Cinta, Cinta adalah Agama). This is a book I've been buying for a long time, but I'm only reading it now. I haven't read a book in a long time. But this book is no more than 200 pages. I'm so sorry it took so long to finish this book. this book is very interesting. I like the perspective and understanding written by the author.
A number of philosophies are outlined in this book. However, leftist philosophy and religious views are written in the book. the two do not conflict with each other. There is a lot of history to be told in this book. Either Islamic history or other history. The language used is not patronizing at all. Writers like to be very careful in conveying their understanding. Of course, this book is very understandable. There are actually a lot of interesting talks in this book. But I only summarize it into a few parts. There are only five things that interest me. Here's the discussion:
In Islam, there are different ways of understanding the Qur'an and Hadith. Because of this difference, there were many people arguing with each other. Especially with Indonesia, cases that are often in the spotlight are at Christmas. There are some people who forbid Christmas greetings. Often, there are differences in the interpretations and opinions of scholars which result in the destruction of human relations. However, it should be noted that the schools of thought in Islam are quite diverse. This situation needs to be considered so that we can accept the difference.
In this book, the author also wants to read accept the difference. With these differences of opinion, the author is of the view that there is a wrong method in taking interpretations of religion. There are things that need to be considered in interpreting the Qur'an or hadith, namely the quality of interpretation and social impact. The more disputes, the greater the conflict in the Qur'an, and the more vulnerable people are in accepting knowledge.
One of them, talks about hate. One of them punishes a drunkard. In Islam, drunkenness is forbidden. Some people will hate and hate drunk people. In fact, people will commit their hatred, insulting those who have committed crimes. This is a shameful word. In the hadith it is explained not to hate. From the subject, everyone treats humans well. Even if you do bad things and make mistakes, you still have to act well. Sometimes we forget to take care of it.
Picture By Nurdiani Latifah
There are many discussions that are very close to our lives. For example, we used to criticize others but end up with bad judgment and hatred. This is what will sever human relations. I am very about this discussion. The author includes the sentence "In lust covered in goodness". At the same time, the author asks the reader. Questioning what we do that becomes a hater.
And then, about several religious interpretations which ended in debate. The author also provides a solution to the debate. It needs a compensation test and a problem of Fiqh opinion. This was done to reduce the risk of harm. I agree with the author. These differences and arguments regarding fiqh issues often disturb us in our daily life.
In Indonesia, there is one of the most famous ulama. In each appearance, there are many interesting things when delivered. He is very funny and his language is easy to understand. However, this cleric often answers with spontaneous questions from his congregation. That has an impact on several things. One of them is to embarrass an artist in Indonesia. According to the author, this need not be the case. Not all questions of worship are answered to satisfy everyone. Because not everyone has to be happy. Various things must be done to maintain diversity. There are quite sensitive questions which if answered without sufficient knowledge. As well as ending in quarrels and destroying social cohesion.
Nurdiani Latifah
My name is Nurdiani Latifah. I currently live in Jakarta – Indonesia, after 25 years I live in Bandung. I am a media staff at an NGO in Indonesia. I have worked in this institution for almost 2 years on issues of women and peace. I had been a journalist in Bandung for 3 years.
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