Naelul Marom

ULAMA PEREMPUAN SEBAGAI MEDIATOR SAINS-AGAMA: KAJIAN FATWA DAN PANDANGAN TOKOH PEREMPUAN DALAM ISU KONTEMPORER ILMU FALAK

Introduction

Ulama perempuan sebagai mediator sains-agama: kajian fatwa dan pandangan tokoh perempuan dalam isu kontemporer ilmu falak. Telusuri peran ulama perempuan Indonesia sebagai mediator sains-agama dalam isu kontemporer Ilmu Falak. Mereka meredakan konflik, dorong kesetaraan gender dengan pendekatan integratif.

Abstract

The study of Ilmu Falak (Islamic Astronomy) in Indonesia is often dominated by male figures, both in determining religious law (fatwa) and its practice. This article analyzes the role of Women Scholars (Ulama Perempuan - UP) as a bridge (mediator) between the perspective of pure science (astronomy) and the view of Sharia (astronomical fiqh - fikih falak), particularly in contemporary issues such as the criteria for Hisab-Rukyat (calculation-sighting) and the Global Hijri Calendar. Using a descriptive qualitative method with content analysis of fatwas and the views of Indonesian female Falak figures (e.g., female Falak academics, members of the Lajnah Falakiyah - Astronomical Board), this study finds that Women Scholars tend to adopt an Integrative-Contextual approach. Women Scholars play a crucial role in reducing the tension of the Hisab-Rukyat conflict, positioning the consideration of social welfare (maslahat) (socio-astronomical aspects) alongside mathematical accuracy, and encouraging a gender equality perspective in the public space of Falak. The contributions of Women Scholars ensure that the Falak discourse remains relevant, moderate, and inclusive amid technological advancements and modernity.

Review

The proposed article, "ULAMA PEREMPUAN SEBAGAI MEDIATOR SAINS-AGAMA: KAJIAN FATWA DAN PANDANGAN TOKOH PEREMPUAN DALAM ISU KONTEMPORER ILMU FALAK," addresses a highly pertinent and underexplored area within Islamic studies and the sociology of religion. By focusing on the role of Women Scholars (Ulama Perempuan) in mediating between scientific (astronomy) and religious (Sharia) perspectives in *Ilmu Falak*, the study promises to offer a refreshing counter-narrative to the traditionally male-dominated discourse. The identified aim to analyze their specific contributions in contemporary issues like Hisab-Rukyat criteria and the Global Hijri Calendar is timely and critical, suggesting a valuable intervention in ongoing scholarly and public debates. The use of a descriptive qualitative method with content analysis of fatwas and views of Indonesian female Falak figures appears well-suited to capture the nuances of their influence. The abstract effectively highlights several significant findings and contributions. The identification of an "Integrative-Contextual approach" adopted by Women Scholars is a crucial conceptual insight, suggesting a nuanced methodology that balances mathematical accuracy with social welfare (maslahat) considerations. This approach is positioned as instrumental in de-escalating the long-standing Hisab-Rukyat conflict, thereby fostering moderation and inclusivity in *Ilmu Falak* discourse. Furthermore, the article's emphasis on their role in advocating for gender equality within the public space of Falak is particularly noteworthy, adding a vital feminist perspective to an otherwise traditional field. These contributions collectively suggest that Ulama Perempuan are not merely participants but active shapers of a more relevant, balanced, and progressive understanding of Islamic astronomy. While the abstract presents a compelling overview, the full paper would benefit from elaborating on the specific mechanisms through which Ulama Perempuan implement their "Integrative-Contextual approach" and how their advocacy for gender equality practically manifests and impacts outcomes. A deeper dive into the challenges they face in this male-dominated field, and how they navigate these obstacles, would further enrich the analysis. Overall, this study offers a highly valuable contribution to the fields of Islamic studies, gender studies, and the history/sociology of science. By illuminating the critical, yet often overlooked, role of Women Scholars in bridging scientific and religious thought, it promises to significantly advance our understanding of how religious authority is negotiated and transformed in modern Islamic societies, ensuring the continued relevance and dynamism of *Ilmu Falak*.

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