Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah as an Antidote: Qur’an and Hadith Reception in Malay Communities of Pontianak and Singkawang
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.28918/religia.v27i1.8555Abstract
Initially, Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah was predominantly received by scholars with a focus on textual analysis.
However, its reception has expanded, incorporating various practices within communities, including its use
as a remedy believed to cure ailments. This study aims to examine the belief in the efficacy of Sūrah AlFātiḥah as a healing remedy among the Malay communities of Pontianak and Singkawang. A qualitative
research methodology was employed, analyzed through Ahmad Rafiq’s theory of functional reception. Data
were gathered through observations, interviews, and related literature. The findings reveal that the Malay
communities of Pontianak and Singkawang believe in Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah’s healing properties based on a
Hadith stating: “The Opening of the Book serves as a remedy for various ailments.” Performatively, in
Pontianak, Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah is recited in one breath over a glass of water, which is then consumed by the
ill. In Singkawang, there are two ways: first, reciting Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah while directing the thumb to the
roof of the mouth and applying it to the affected area; second, reciting the surah over water, which is then
consumed and applied to the afflicted area. The transmission of this knowledge in Pontianak is linked to
Kitab Mujarabat (literally: Book of Remedies) by Daeng Matse, while in Singkawang, it derives from
Kitab Harian (literally: Book of Daily Guidance) by Datok Ngah Dolah. This study contributes to the
understanding of Living Qur’an and Hadith, revealing a model of acculturative religious education. The
theoretical, practical, and methodological contributions of this research offer recommendations for future
studies, such as developing new methods or expanding research datasets
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