Gus Miftah Controversy: Observing Polemics That Cover The Figure Of Da'i Nyentrik

Gus Miftah (Between)

YOGYAKARTA - Lecturer Gus Miftah has returned to the public spotlight because of his viral actions on social media when he patted his wife's head. After the video spread widely, netizens again discussed various controversial actions from the caretaker of Pondok Ora Aji.

The reason is, Gus Miftah, a famous preacher from Yogyakarta, is known as a figure who often shows an eccentric and controversial style of da'wah. His popularity skyrocketed after actively preaching in urban society, artists, to communities that are often considered marginalized, such as night entertainment workers. However, this popularity cannot be separated from various criticisms and controversies that accompany his steps.

One of Gus Miftah's most striking controversys was when he preached in nightclubs. When another preacher chose a mosque or holy place as the location for the delivery of da'wah, Gus Miftah took a different approach by choosing a position that was considered "unusual" by some residents. In 2018, Gus Miftah once drew widespread attention when his video was preaching in a nightclub that went viral on social media. For Gus Miftah, this step was taken with the intention of embracing those who were rarely or even had not had time to be touched by da'wah in official places of worship. He believes that Islamic messages must be informed to all groups, including those deemed "marginal". However, this method stimulates pros and cons. Some scholars and the public question the suitability of preaching in night entertainment venues that are considered full of immorality.

Not only about the location of da'wah, Gus Miftah is also often criticized for his communication style and appearance which is considered "very free" by some circles. On several occasions, he appeared to be in an unusual dress for a preacher, such as wearing sunglasses or casual clothes that are far from a religious impression. His style of lectures that often use humor and slang also raises debate. Some consider it innovative because they have succeeded in targeting the younger generation, while others feel that the method is disrespectful and does not reflect the splendor of Islam.

However, Gus Miftah's controversy is not limited to methods and places of da'wah. His opinions are adrift of religious issues are often the subject of debate. For example, his thoughts about pluralism and religious tolerance. Gus Miftah is known to be a very vocal form in supporting the behavior of inter-religious tolerance in Indonesia. In 2019, he was a priest in the prayer for the opening of a church in Yogyakarta. This action stimulated the strong response of several groups that accused him of supporting practices that were considered to violate Islamic teachings. However, Gus Miftah commented that his actions were part of an effort to strengthen brotherhood between religious believers and maintain national harmony.

Not only that, his inclusive views on the LGBT community have also drawn criticism. Although Gus Miftah did not explicitly support LGBT's behavior, but he had emphasized that every human being, regardless of sexual orientation, had the right to find good love and treatment. This was accused him of being accused by some parties of being a "melting" form of conservative Islamic teachings.

Behind the various polemics that surround him, Gus Miftah has always been firm in the principle that da'wah must be conveyed to all groups regardless of a person's social background or moral status. He believes that an inclusive and embracing approach is the best method for spreading loving Islamic messages. Gus Miftah argued that Islam taught to embrace, not stay away, those who got lost.

However, Gus Miftah's controversy seems to have not subsided in the near future. Each step and his words always attract public attention, both pros and cons. However, in the midst of all these debates, Gus Miftah has succeeded in establishing himself as one of the figures who is able to bring da'wah to a wider and varied realm, even though his methods often hit existing norms.

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