Dwi Rizki Nabila Nasution, Muhammad Faishal

Actualizing Maqam Qanaah in Responding to the Consumptive Lifestyle of the Younger Generation

Introduction

Actualizing maqam qanaah in responding to the consumptive lifestyle of the younger generation. Explore how youth in Sigara-gara actualize maqam qanaah to counter consumerism. Discover strategies like religious education, gratitude, and financial management to combat materialism.

Abstract

The consumptive lifestyle of the younger generation in Sigara-gara Village, Patumbak Sub-district is influenced by the rapid development of technology and materialistic tendencies. This can be seen by the purchase of goods that are not basic needs in order to build self-image and fulfill social pressure. This research aims to find out how the younger generation perceives and practices maqam qanaah in overcoming their consumerism. The method used is a qualitative approach that focuses on case studies. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with six young people aged 20-27 years old. After the data was collected, it was analyzed using the Miles and Hubarman model. The findings of this study show that maqam qanaah can be actualized through three ways, first by providing religious education through religious studies and examples from parents. Second, by changing the mindset to be more grateful and being in an environment that supports the value of qanaah. Third, wise financial management by keeping a record of expenses every month to avoid impulsive buying and saving for the future. These findings are contextual and cannot be generalized widely due to the small number of respondents and the limited scope of the region. Therefore, other research is needed with a broader approach and coverage area. This research makes a significant contribution to the development of contextual Sufism, by connecting maqam qanaah with the challenges of modern life.

Review

This paper addresses a highly pertinent issue: the pervasive consumptive lifestyle among the younger generation, a challenge exacerbated by technological advancement and materialistic tendencies. By focusing on the concept of *maqam qanaah* from Islamic Sufism, the research offers a unique and culturally grounded approach to mitigating consumerism. The study, employing a qualitative case study method, delves into the perceptions and practices of six young individuals in Sigara-gara Village, aiming to understand how this spiritual station of contentment can be actualized. The use of in-depth interviews and the Miles and Hubarman analysis model provides a robust framework for exploring these complex individual experiences. The findings illuminate three key pathways for actualizing *maqam qanaah*: fostering religious education, cultivating a mindset of gratitude within supportive environments, and implementing wise financial management practices. These insights offer concrete, albeit context-specific, strategies for combating impulsive buying and promoting responsible consumption. A significant strength of this research lies in its innovative connection between a traditional spiritual concept and a contemporary social issue, contributing meaningfully to the field of contextual Sufism. However, the explicit acknowledgment of the study's limitations – namely, the small sample size and localized geographical scope – is crucial. These factors mean the findings are highly contextual and cannot be broadly generalized, an important consideration for readers. Despite the inherent limitations of a focused case study, the paper makes a valuable contribution by laying foundational qualitative data and demonstrating the practical relevance of *maqam qanaah* in a modern context. It effectively bridges theoretical Sufism with lived experience, offering a nuanced understanding of how spiritual principles can inform daily financial and lifestyle choices. The call for future research with a broader scope and larger respondent base is well-justified and highlights a clear path for expanding upon these initial, compelling findings. Overall, this research provides a thoughtful and culturally sensitive exploration of consumerism, offering unique insights and paving the way for further investigation into the application of traditional wisdom to contemporary challenges.

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