Social Transformation Through Public Religious Gatherings
By Dr. Abdul Wadud Nafis, LC., MEI Public religious gatherings, or pengajian, have become a strong tradition in the lives of Muslim communities. As a space to deepen one's understanding of Islam, these gatherings serve not only as a means of religious education but also as a platform for moral, social, and spiritual development. Every time they are held, pengajian creates a sense of togetherness, strengthens bonds of brotherhood (ukhuwah), and refreshes the soul thirsty for knowledge. It’s no wonder that these gatherings have a significant impact on the behavior of the people who attend them. From a social perspective, pengajian plays a role in inspiring positive change, both at the individual and community levels. Many attendees feel more responsible, more aware of the importance of good character, and closer…