Breaking Patriarchal Barriers: Research by Five UIN Jakarta Lecturers on the Impact of Technology on the Development of Da'wah by Female Ulama’s

Jakarta, UIN News Online — The influence of digital technology on the dissemination of religious messages becomes more significant. In a research journal written by a Professor from the Faculty of Psychology, Prof. Dr. Rena Latifa, M.Psi., titled “Study Of Cyber And Da'wah Acceptance In New Media: How Technology Affects Religious Message By Female Ulama,” published in AHKAM Jurnal Ilmu Syariah in 2022, the impact of new media on the da'wah by female ulama in Indonesia is explained. This study highlights the acceptance and challenges faced by female ulama in using technology to deliver sermons and fatwas.

Facing Patriarchal Barriers in Digital Da'wah

This research examines eleven potential relationship pathways based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The analysis results show that social influence is not significant in encouraging the use of new media to access sermons by female ulama. Despite being in a homogeneous environment, the popularity of female ulama remains low, possibly due to the traditional approaches they use.

The study also highlights the significant challenges faced by female ulama in spreading da'wah through new media. Strong patriarchal power structures and cultures are the main obstacles. They are often considered problematic and less experienced compared to male ulama. However, new media such as social media, blogs, and websites provide potential platforms for female ulama to claim their authority and deliver more inclusive religious messages.

The Inspirational Story of Ustazah Syifa Nur Fadilah

Amid societal concerns about gender injustice and limited access to information, Syifa Nur Fadilah, an alumnus of UIN Jakarta, emerges as a real example of how female ulama can utilize digital technology for da'wah. Syifa, using social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, has successfully built a solid online community.

Following the recommendations from Prof. Dr. Rena Latifa's research, Syifa has successfully developed a more modern and interactive da'wah method. She uses various digital content formats such as short videos, infographics, and live Q&A sessions, which not only attract attention but also invite active participation from her audience. This approach is very effective in facing the cultural patriarchal challenges that often hinder women from excelling in the field of da'wah.

Overcoming Challenges and Moving Forward

Syifa frequently collaborates with other female ulama and religious organizations to strengthen inclusive and relevant religious messages. Despite facing significant challenges such as patriarchal power structures and perceptions of being less experienced compared to male ulama, Ustazah Syifa continues to innovate in her da'wah methods.

Ustazah Syifa's story shows that by utilizing digital technology, female ulama can overcome patriarchal barriers and strengthen their role in delivering religious messages. Prof. Dr. Rena Latifa's research indicates that although female ulama still face significant challenges, digital media provides great opportunities to amplify their voices in delivering religious messages.

This research provides important insights for developing more effective da'wah strategies in the digital era and strengthening the role of female ulama in delivering relevant and inclusive religious messages in Indonesia today.

Bright Prospects for Digital Da'wah for Female Ulama

The research conducted by Prof. Dr. Rena Latifa on the digital da'wah of female ulama shows that women have a significant role in overcoming the strong patriarchal barriers in society. The use of digital technology by female ulama allows them to transcend geographical and social boundaries that have long limited their participation in religious discourse, thus providing them with a broader and more influential platform.

According to the author's perspective, the prospects for women's da'wah in the digital era are very promising and will continue to develop, provided they receive adequate support from various parties, including the community and the government. Technological advancements create opportunities previously unimaginable, and with the right support, female ulama can further solidify their role in spreading constructive religious and social values. Through their innovation and determination, female ulama not only succeed in overcoming patriarchal barriers but also pave the way for the next generation to play an active role in da'wah.

The research journal written by Prof. Rena can be accessed at the following link: [Prof. Rena Latifa's Journal] (https://scholar.google.co.id/citations?view_op=view_citation&hl=en&user=clq7DQkAAAAJ&citation_for_view=clq7DQkAAAAJ:O3NaXMp0MMsC)

(Ken Devina/Nadhira Rahmah/Fauziah M./Raihan Lail)