Controversy Erupts Over Claims of "Direct Phone Call to Allah" for Eid Determination

 

Mbah Benu Aolia

HOT NEWS INDONESIA - In the midst of the sacred observance of Ramadan and the anticipation of Eid al-Fitr, a controversy has stirred within the Muslim community, particularly in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta. The controversy revolves around assertions made by prominent figures regarding a purported "direct phone call to Allah" for determining the timing of Eid festivities.

Wading into the intricate terrain of religious interpretation and authority, the Deputy Secretary General of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Gus Fahrur, emphasized the importance of adhering to orthodox Islamic teachings based on knowledge and reason. He sternly warned against the manipulation of Islamic doctrines and cautioned against claims of direct communication with the Divine, stressing the necessity of grounding religious practices in established teachings.

Gus Fahrur's remarks come in response to the viral statement made by Raden Ibnu Hajar Pranolo, also known as Mbah Benu, a respected leader within the local Muslim community. Mbah Benu's assertion of having a "direct phone call to Allah" to ascertain the timing of Eid al-Fitr ignited a storm of debate and skepticism.

In a bid to clarify the statement, Daud Mastein, Mbah Benu's son, explained that his father's words were metaphorical, indicating his spiritual endeavors rather than literal communication with the Almighty. Despite attempts to defuse the situation through apologies and clarifications, the fallout from the statement continues to reverberate, prompting reflections on the boundaries of religious interpretation and the role of authority figures within the community.

The response from mainstream Islamic organizations has been swift and unequivocal. Ahmad Fahrurrozi, Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), condemned the actions of Masjid Aolia's congregation for celebrating Eid al-Fitr based on what he deemed as unfounded claims. He emphasized the need to prevent such incidents from recurring, underlining the potential ramifications of deviating from established religious practices.

Jemaah Masjid Aolia's decision to observe Eid al-Fitr five days ahead of the projected date has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism, particularly due to the unconventional method employed in determining the timing of the festivities. Despite assertions of adhering to their own religious principles and interpretations, questions linger regarding the validity and implications of such departures from mainstream practices.

The saga surrounding the purported "direct phone call to Allah" underscores deeper tensions within the Muslim community regarding religious authority, interpretation, and adherence to established norms. As the debate rages on, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in navigating matters of faith and tradition in an ever-evolving world. Only through dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to reasoned discourse can such contentious issues be addressed and resolved in a manner that upholds the unity and integrity of the Muslim community.***