Ahok controversial on Al Maidah 51

In one of his speech, Ahok said, “In your inner hearts, Bapak/Ibu may not vote for me, because [you have been] lied to by [using] Surah al-Maidah, Verse 51, etc. […] So, if you cannot vote for me because you are afraid of being condemned to hell you do not need to feel uneasy as you are being fooled. It is alright”. The speech sparked protests from Indonesian Muslims. Differences of opinion occur in the community, including among fellow Muslims.

Friends and neighbors asking for my opinion on the case. Obviously the first one I say is that I am not a cleric or ulama. So my opinion would have been only the opinion of ordinary Muslims.

First, to strengthen my faith I've often discussed and debated about the teachings of Islam, not just with fellow Muslims but also with other believers. I tried to keep an open mind when going on dissent, and remain in a position of mutual respect and not to impose the faith. One of discussion is about the leadership of women and non-Muslims in community organization.

In my opinion, Ahok speech showed his opinion that's Islam allows his people led by non-Muslims for non-religious affairs. This opinion is based on Gus Dur’s statement as he supports Ahok’s candidacy for governor in the province of Bangka-Belitung decade ago.
So the first thing I do on Ahok speech is to be open to receive his "opinion"

Secondly, Indonesia is a country that requires its citizens to embrace one of the five recognized religions. Harmony on this distinction is done through religious tolerance, including not insult other religions.

Although Ahok simply express an opinion, it was not delivered in a discussion forum, but in his introductory speech as governor. Because his opinions are beyond its capacity, then he can be considered an insult to religion.
On this mistake, we should call Ahok, admonish him and advised to apologize openly to the public. It would be better if on that occasion Ahok urge other people, for the sake of the sovereignty of our beloved country, to be careful in the expression regard to religious issues.

Third, for me any feedback or criticism is a gift, an opportunity for improvement or enhancement. Ahok controversial speech is the right moment to consolidate and introspection for Muslims. Muslim rulers should immediately gather and unite opinions. If necessary, held discussions with Islamic ulama in the world, especially on interpret Al Maidah verse 51. Different understandings will affect Indonesia in the order of the state and nation.
Considering the differences in background, knowledge and intent, it is rather difficult to get a common understanding. The difference in setting the date for the Idul Fitri feast that happened over the years is proof of difficulty in obtaining an agreement among Indonesian Muslims themselves. But at least we're trying.
Even if the results are still differences, we will let it and announce that we are still agreed on multiple interpretations, and leave it to each individual to choose. Surely as a mediator, religious departments must choose an official interpretation from the standpoint of the government.

Fourth, this incident is a critical moment for Indonesia. In the global trend of radicalization, it would be easy infiltration to divide the nation, or erode national identity. Political rivalry, especially in the face of the local government election, also can add to the complexity of this issue

On the other hand it is an opportunity to strengthen the unity in diversity. All elements of the nation must be echoed determination of national unity. Surely the president of Indonesia must be at the forefront in this national movement. This movement includes organize and regulate the use of social media to be free but responsible, and give priority to national unity and sovereignty.

Finally, according the first principle of this nation, Believe in the One Supreme God, we have to think hard and develop the grand strategy and long-term planning on how the next generation can still maintain Indonesia as a religion state instead of secular. And the character is able to enhance global competitiveness in order to improve the welfare of the people. Education department, the leaders of each religion should play an active role in order to formulate the program and ensure that it is running well.

My fundamentals beliefs

I have not opened this blog more than seven years. Much has changed, one of which is the Google translate. So I will continue with this blog in English with the help of Google translate.


The first thing that I want to write here is related to the current world situation, where one of the topics that stands out is terrorism and radicalism, which is often misunderstood as teachings of Islam.
Because I was a Muslim who grew up in Indonesia, the view of the world (mostly western countries) against Islam, encouraged me to recalibrate my beliefs, whether my religion has fulfilled my desire to believe. Of course I had to check it and find it in the Koran.

There are some of my fundamentals beliefs that should be shown ;

First, I respect other people's beliefs and believe that everyone will find the good of their individual belief. Rather than discuss differences, I want more focus to interact with them in things that are good. I hope most people are in the same page, so we could live in peace.
I find this Koran verse that meets my belief:
002.148: And each one hath a goal toward which he turneth; so vie with one another in good works. Wheresoever ye may be, Allah will bring you all together. Lo! Allah is Able to do all things.

Secondly, all creatures in the worlds is interconnected, ranging from the microscopic to the galaxies. I belief that to be on par with all of them, as creatures created. I want the belief that is universal. Directed not only me personally, but for all human beings and even all sentient beings.
I think this verse describes the vision in accordance with my wishes
021:107 We sent thee not, but as a mercy for all creatures

Third, considering the order of the universe and none contradictions in the laws of nature, then I believe the universe must be designed and maintained by a single god, The One Almighty God.
This verse provides a logical reason of the oneness of God
023.091: Allah hath not chosen any son, nor is there any god along with Him; else would each god have assuredly championed that which he created, and some of them would assuredly have overcome others. Glorified be Allah above all that they allege.

Fourth, I want to pray directly to God, without intermediaries. Because my god is a god of the universe that is able to interact directly with each individual creations.
This verse depicts God openness to directly receive the prayer of His servant
002.186: And when My servants question thee concerning Me, then surely I am nigh. I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he crieth unto Me. So let them hear My call and let them trust in Me, in order that they may be led aright

Fifth, this belief does not force me to follow him, and also did not ask me to force others to follow. Everyone should be given the freedom to choose, in accordance with the mind and conscience
I find a verse that guarantees the freedom to choose
002.256: There is no compulsion in religion. The right direction is henceforth distinct from error. And he who rejecteth false deities and believeth in Allah hath grasped a firm handhold which will never break. Allah is Hearer, Knower.

Sixth, this belief must give me the opportunity to learn, reflect, and understand. There is no compulsion to believe or reject something not yet understood
This verse encourages and challenges me to understand first.
040.054: A guide and a reminder for men of understanding

Seventh, because it comes from the creator of the universe, then this belief must not conflict with science that has been tested and proven. In fact, this belief should provide clue and guidance to explore a broader and deeper knowledge.
I find a verse that challenge us to prove the truth of his statement; by continuously studying the universe as well as the human body,
041.053: We shall show them Our portents on the horizons and within themselves until it will be manifest unto them that it is the Truth. Doth not thy Lord suffice, since He is Witness over all things?

Eighth, I am not a superman who can understand it all at once. So of course I will learn something easy. Then, gradually and over time there will be more that I do understand. Be patient on the progress of my understanding.
This verse keeping our learning motivation by maintaining the level of simplicity
073.020: … Allah measureth the night and the day. He knoweth that ye count it not, and turneth unto you in mercy. Recite, then, of the Qur'an that which is easy for you…


It seems there are still many requirements that will I ask, but since it has met all eight of these basic requirements, I already feel comfortable with my current belief that I learned from the teachings of Koran and hadith I gladly would increase confidence in life by studying this belief and look forward to mutual respect in matters of belief. So that we can live side by side for a better human life.

For me the Koran is a holy book that contains knowledges, which is about 600-700 pages thick, containing 6236 verses. Koran is Arabic word which means reading or something read repeatedly.
Today, the branch of science is very broad. There is a science that easily I can understand, but some are very difficult for me to understand. However, I will read the book I'm interested, including the Koran.
Like the other books I have read, I am sure there are parts of the Koran that I can understand it easily and there is an elusive. This understanding is certainly related to how many other knowledges that I have which may help to explain. That is why I chose to keep open minds.