Political Dynamics of Muhammadiyah and Its Relevance to the Concept of the State in Islam

Abstract

This study describes the political dynamics of Muhammadiyah and its relevance to the constitutional concept from an Islamic political perspective. This research uses a descriptive, and historical approach. The results of the study find out: First, the characteristics of an Islamic state are applying God’s law, adopting a form of leadership, being universal, not totalitarian, and applying a humane leadership pattern. This character is supported by a leadership system based on basic principles in the Islamic state (al-mabda ‘al-asâsî fi dawlah al-Islamiyyah) which includes: trustworthiness (al-amânah), deliberation (al-syûrâ), equality (al-musâwâ), justice (al-’adâlah), and plurality (al-ta ‘addudiyya). Second, the Muhammadiyah doctrine originates from the al-Qur’an and al-Hadith and contains a system of beliefs, thoughts, and actions which, as a whole, are accumulated into the ideology and values of the Muhammadiyah movement. This doctrine is then outlined in Muhammadiyah’s statute and Bylaws (AD/ART) and covers all steps and strategies for the struggle, personality, beliefs, and way of life of Muhammadiyah. Third, political theology and universal and fundamental religious understanding serve as guidelines, and at the same time, as the blueprint for Muhammadiyah’s political midset which is implemented through political and cultural channels in the realm of high, allocative politics.