Tasawwuf moderation in higher education: Empirical study of Al-Ghazali's Tasawwuf contribution to intellectual society

In Indonesia, Tasawwuf is not a new phenomenon. Religious practices that purifying the heart have been deeply rooted in religious traditions, from academics, Islamic boarding schools, and universities. However, lately, demands to disband the authority of Tasawwuf from Islamic teachings have come from reformist groups fronted by Salafi Jihadi, where the basis of their argument is based on the prevalence of Sufi practices that are too far-fetched, irrational, and even tend to injure the theological aspects. Amid the vortex of debate dialogue between reformists and traditionalists in the area of tasawwuf, a community emerged which they called wasatiyyah or moderate, where the main focus of their mission was to bring together different points of view in a wiser portion in responding to them. This article closely examines the contribution of Muslim intellectual Tasawwuf Moderation through Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali (who died in the 5th century) and its implications for Indonesian society's culture in general to the discourse of socio-religious movements of intellectuals in higher education.

Automated summary

In Indonesia, Tasawwuf has a long history and is deeply rooted in religious traditions and educational institutions. However, in recent years, there has been a growing demand from reformist groups to disband the authority of Tasawwuf, arguing that its practices are irrational and harmful to theological aspects. In response, a moderate community called wasatiyyah has emerged, aiming to bring together different perspectives and contribute to the socioreligious discourse. This article examines the role of Muslim intellectual Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali in promoting Tasawwuf Moderation and its implications for Indonesian society's culture, particularly in higher education.