From Religious Understanding to Tradition: The Role of Tuan Gurus in the Fidyah Practice within the Sasak Muslim Community

Abstrak

This study examines the tradition of fidyah paymentsÔÇöcompensation for missed prayers (ß╣úal─üt) on behalf of the deceasedÔÇöwithin the Sasak Muslim community in Central Lombok, Indonesia. Although this practice diverges from the mainstream Sh─üfi╩┐─½ school of law (madhhab), which the community primarily follows, it endures as a deeply ingrained tradition. Based on fieldwork and interviews with tuan gurus (local religious leaders) and deceased family members, the research finds that fidyah is commonly paid using rice, money, or gold from the deceasedÔÇÖs estate, distributed as alms to the poor. The community views fidyah as a means of atoning for missed prayers, offering peace to the family. Tuan gurus legitimize this practice by citing specific Islamic juristic opinions, particularly those of Im─üm al-Subk─½ and Im─üm Ab┼½ ß©ñan─½fah. Over generations, the Sasak community has internalized fidyah as a communal obligation, with non-compliance regarded as a family dishonor. This study demonstrates how tuan gurusÔÇÖ teachings shape and institutionalize religious practices, transforming them into essential cultural traditions.