In today’s era, technology is developing very rapidly; information is easily accessible anytime and anywhere and by anyone. In addition, Digital technology in various elements of life makes it easy for anyone to find information quickly.
Especially in the current pandemic era, technology plays an essential role in providing information, including preaching. A preacher can convey Islamic teachings through social media such as Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, etc. Because the digital era is the peak where everything is fast-paced and can be enjoyed by the public.
Meanwhile, we know that the process of Islamization in Indonesia started from the coast, which is a place for shipping traffic and Muslim traders. But, in addition, there is a reciprocal relationship between coastal communities and inland communities.
The still local solid and traditional culture inherent in Indonesian Muslims certainly creates its own uniqueness for the religion of Islam. This can be seen from several religious activities carried out by people in various regions with various local cultures that contain different Islamic elements.
In spreading Islam, Wali Songo approached the traditions and culture of the indigenous people, where at that time they already had the local culture they embraced. Whether there is a religion or not, they continue to survive by the guidelines they already have. Wali Songo is very concerned about the character and nature of the community as the target of da’wah in all its diversity of character and culture.
The presence of Wali Songo in Javanese society by bringing Islamic teachings was not readily accepted by the community. Thus, Wali Songo is faced with an organisation with traditions, culture, and instructions that they have long adhered to.
Therefore, the strategy taken by Wali Songo is through da’wah appropriately and wisely, namely by combining elements of Islamic religious teachings and local culture without eliminating aspects of culture, instructions, and socio-economic conditions of the community.
The communication pattern of Wali Songo’s da’wah was finally able to bear fruit with the acceptance of Islam as a new religion for indigenous people, especially Java, even Islam became the majority religion and developed until now.
Previously, da’wah was more concerned with worshipping Allah and was based on the intention and motivation to hope for the pleasure of Allah alone. However, along with the development of technology, preaching has developed. Therefore, the da’wah method carried out by Wali Songo can be applied by following the times.
Social media has become a necessity of life and provides a challenge and an excellent opportunity to convey Islamic teachings, especially for preachers. Preachers are required to be able to use social media as a means of preaching.
Unlike the times of the Wali Songo, in the digital era like today, technology can be used by scholars or preachers to spread Islamic teachings. A preacher can take advantage of technological advances, especially the Internet, as a strategy in delivering da’wah. Social media as a medium of da’wah is an opportunity and a challenge to spread Islamic teachings.
This is done so that da’wah is more widespread and is expected to be more effective and efficient. The people who are reached are broader, the impact is more comprehensive as well. For da’wah activities to run effectively and efficiently, they must use strategic methods in conveying Islamic teachings. In addition, the challenges of da’wah in the era of technology and communication must be faced and responsible for Islam’s progress.
With the advancement of digital technology, Muslims in Indonesia play an essential role as the successors of the Wali Songo and spearheads in the development of da’wah to convey Islamic teachings and invite goodness and instil goodness.
It is hoped that the public can understand and study that Islamic teachings bring peace and tranquillity. There is no compulsion to embrace Islam, but with the awareness that grows within, the teachings of Islam will shape personality characters with polite attitudes and behaviour both personally and socially.