The Legacy of Islam Nusantara in Local Traditions: Between Acculturation and Cultural Da'wah

Grégory Baron; Almuzammil Perdhana; Athiyah Mardatillah

Authors

Grégory Baron University of Reunion Island Author
Almuzammil Perdhana Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar Author
Athiyah Mardatillah Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar Author

Keywords:

Cultural Acculturation, Cultural Da'wah, Islam Nusantara, Local Traditions

Abstract

Islam Nusantara represents a unique expression of Islam that has grown and developed throughout the Indonesian archipelago through a long process of interaction between Islamic teachings and local cultures. This phenomenon not only reflects the success of past Islamic scholars in spreading the faith but also highlights Islam’s capacity for peaceful dialogue with deeply rooted local traditions. This study aims to explore the dynamics of cultural acculturation within local traditions as a form of Islamic cultural da'wah across various regions in the archipelago, while also identifying expressions of local wisdom that remain aligned with Islamic values. The research uses a qualitative-descriptive method with ethnographic and literature study approaches, involving observation and narrative analysis of Islamic-influenced cultural practices in Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi. The findings indicate that Islam Nusantara has successfully fostered harmony between Islamic values and local culture through inclusive, non-confrontational, and transformative approaches. This acculturation process does not dilute Islamic identity; rather, it strengthens the message of da'wah by embedding it within local symbols that are easily accepted by the community. The study concludes that preserving Islam Nusantara is essential as a model of peaceful, moderate, and culturally relevant da'wah, particularly in facing the challenges of globalization and in maintaining the Islamic identity of Indonesia’s plural society.

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