Islam and Cults: A Study of the Implementation of the Fatwa Policy of the Indonesian Ulema Council

Abstract

Fatwa of the Indonesian Ulema Council serves as a decision to guide the implementation of Muslim religious worship in Indonesia. Problems that occur related to religious harmony are indications of cult practices in Indonesia. This research looks at Islam and Cults in Indonesia and the mechanism of the Indonesian Ulema Council's Fatwa policy towards the dissolution of cults. In addition, this study looks at the implications of the Fatwa Policy of the Indonesian Ulema Council on Muslim harmony. This research used a desk research approach through qualitative methods and aimed to identify objectives, select sources, collect data, and compile and analyse data to conclude. The results showed that MUI Fatwa plays an essential role in maintaining the order of religious life in Indonesia by determining the religious life of Muslims based on Islamic teachings. This includes determining the status of heretical groups, involving proper interpretive science, dissolving and stopping heretical activities, and cooperating with the government and religious leaders to protect the community. MUI's Fatwa has a positive impact on the eradication of cults based on a solid Islamic legal foundation, acting as a party that protects the community from deviant activities.