Counter Narratives of Extremism: A Study of the Exclusive Islamic Discourse of the Islamic Movement of IAIN Lhokseumawe Students

Abstract

This research aims to explain the Counter-Narrative of Extremism: A Study of the Exclusive Islamic Discourse of the Islamic Movement of IAIN Lhokseumawe Students. By using a qualitative method that utilizes the main data of interviews, this study found that the exclusive Islamic discourse of IAIN Lhokseumawe students who are members of the HMI, PMII and LEKISMA organisations refers to talks or debates that occur in discussions made by these organisations. Both discussions that are coordinated in organisational activities as well as discussions personally by members of the organisation. In particular, the discussions that take place are related to issues, understanding, and practice of Islam such as those related to tafsir, hadith, fiqh and differences in mazhab, the relationship between Islam and society and politics. It was also found that not all student Islamic movements at IAIN Lhokseumawe hold exclusive views. Organisationally it is not exclusive, but personally there are indications that lead to an exclusive understanding, although not strong. This is due to the lack of religious knowledge as well as the weak reading or literacy of IAIN Lhokseumawe students. IAIN Lhokseumawe students construct counter-narratives of extremism through seminars, lectures and education of awareness of Islamic student activists IAIN Lhokseumawe to be respectful and respectful of those who do not agree or agree with their religious understanding. In general, the construction of counter-narratives of extremism carried out by Islamic students of IAIN Lhokseumawe, HMI, PMII and LEKISMA is with a narrative of religious moderation.