Cultural Broker are Led by Kiai, What Now?

Cultural Broker as the role of Kiai was originally introduced as a theory by Clifford Geertz. Derived from Javanese culture, the term ‘Kiai’ encompasses notions of respect for many things. It includes elders, honoured objects and others. However, Kiai in this paper is synonymous with Islamic scholars or clerics. A figure of authority and respect in Indonesian society (Dhofier 2011, 93).

Geertz introduced the concept of cultural broker to describe the role of kiai in connecting the rural population with the Indonesian political elite in the post-independence period (Geertz 1960, 228). Since its introduction in Geertz’s seminal 1960 work, there has been little academic discourse responding to this proposition. At the same time, there is a need for a contemporary perspective on the role of kiai and pesantren, which has expanded beyond the scope of Geertz’s research.

In today’s digital era, an important question arises: is the concept of kiai as cultural broker still relevant? This article seeks to answer that question, by examining the application of the kiai as cultural broker framework in the context of contemporary digital dynamics.

The Origins of Cultural Broker

Before delving deeper into the concept of cultural broker, it is important to trace its origins. Coined by Eric Wolf, the term ‘cultural broker’ denotes an important figure tasked with bridging the gap between sophisticated and folk cultures, or between cosmopolitan groups and smaller communities in rural environments (Wolf 1956, 1075).

The main function of cultural broker revolves around facilitating the exchange of information and knowledge between different social groups. This role is considered important as it can foster relationships and a sense of bridging ideas. Indeed, the essence of this position lies in its ability to operationalise and actualise command objectives through the dissemination of ideas. In addition, cultural broker have the responsibility to mediate agreements and accommodate interests among various stakeholders. It is through the favourable accommodation of these interests that harmony and common goals become possible.

Cultural Broker in the Javanese Context

In Eric Wolf’s research conducted in Mexico, he observed the existence of cultural broker inherent in the context of Kingdoms and Plantation Leaders (Wolf 1956, 1075). Similarly, in the Javanese context, cultural brokers are embodied by kiai, who act as local leaders. After Indonesian independence, kiai gradually shifted to a political role, striving to become local politicians.

Although the two roles performed by kiai show similarities, as local leaders, they operate outside formal political structures. In contrast, in their capacity as local politicians, they take official positions within the political framework, potentially becoming members of parliament or other government posts.

The selection of kiai as cultural broker, as opposed to other figures in the community, may be due to several factors. Firstly, kiai have a significant position of influence in Javanese society, especially in the context of pesantren communities. This prominence is underlined by the kiai’s diverse roles as spiritual leader, educator, and patron of the society.

In traditional Javanese society, kiai have a central role as custodians of knowledge and information. This role goes beyond information dissemination, but also includes cultural and social guidance that is an integral part of community cohesion. Kiai are not only repositories of wisdom, but also arbiters of community norms and values. Kiai authority often extends to the naming of newborn children, further cementing their position as cultural authorities.

In addition, kiai influence is also strengthened by their proximity to grassroots communities. Through their interactions with individuals at different levels of society, kiai function as transmitters of cultural practices, religious teachings, and communal solidarity. This accessibility fosters trust and dependence on kiai as mediators and facilitators in the social order.

In essence, the kiai’s rise as a cultural broker can be attributed to a unique blend of spiritual authority, educational prowess, and community patronage. In the complex social space of Javanese society, kiai emerge as the link between the worlds of tradition and modernity, while upholding the values of community cohesion and identity.

Reconstructing Cultural Broker as Kiai’s Role in Society

In the previous discourse, the discussion centred on the traditional attributes associated with kiai, or Islamic religious leaders in Indonesia, as previously described. Against this contextual backdrop, the imperative arises to investigate the potential influence of these figures in today’s contemporary society. That is, the digital age.

Possibilities and Obstacles as Cultural Broker in the Digital Age

This discourse arises because we are today entering the digital age, which is characterised by the widespread democratisation of information, the dissemination of knowledge extending beyond the boundaries traditionally monopolised by kiai and educated elites, and reaching a wider spectrum of society. This democratisation creates a dynamic of empowerment where everyone, regardless of educational background, is given access to a wide array of information resources.

As a result, individuals were empowered to customise their learning experiences to suit personal inclinations, thus adding to the diversity of ideological perspectives within the fabric of society.

In the contemporary landscape, we are in the midst of a phenomenon often referred to as the post-truth era, where decisions are increasingly influenced by personal sentiments and inclinations rather than factual knowledge and empirical data.

This trend is particularly noticeable in the field of religion, where individuals rely on digital platforms to validate their beliefs and preferences. As a result, this shift has led to confusion and misinformation among the public.

Traditionally, individuals sought guidance primarily from local clerics. However, with the advent of digitalisation, people now have access to a plethora of religious texts, or ‘thurats,’ uploaded on the internet. This accessibility has enabled individuals to engage with different perspectives of clerics from different regions and to seek clarifications and interpretations from various religious scholars.

Moreover, this digital transformation not only affects religious discourse but also extends to other areas of knowledge, including politics and social issues. People are increasingly turning to the internet to access original information and educate themselves on various matters. As a result, the traditional authority of scholars, or ‘Kiai,’ has been challenged as individuals have multiple sources to make decisions.

Combating Misinformation and Embracing the Integrity of Ulama

However, despite the changing landscape, kiai remain indispensable in society. They have the expertise and authority to rectify misinformation and provide guidance on religious matters. In addition, Kiai play an important role in adapting to the evolving demands of society by taking on new roles aligned with contemporary needs.

One of the important functions performed by Kiai is to accompany individuals on their religious learning journey and to serve as discussion partners. In addition, Kiai are also adept at explaining complex religious concepts and guiding systematic Islamic teachings, thus ensuring the accuracy and coherence of religious knowledge amidst the abundance of information available online.

In addition, Kiai are required to have a broad knowledge base to address various social issues and provide appropriate opinions or fatwas. As such, they act as disseminators of knowledge and moral guidance within their communities.

Despite the flood of information in the digital age, Kiai remain relevant by contextualising information, synthesising different sources, and fostering critical thinking among their followers. Their role goes beyond the dissemination of information; they facilitate the transformation of information into meaningful knowledge, thus ensuring clarity and objectivity in the pursuit of understanding.

Promoting Ideas, Concepts, and Knowledge

Kiai also play an important role in promoting democratic values, civic education, and disseminating important information necessary for the betterment of society. When the government and Kiai act as cultural broker and collaborate to spread common ideas in Indonesia, they contribute to rapidly achieving national goals, which include economic, social, and cultural progress, ultimately aspiring to become a developed country.

This vision is in line with the basic principles outlined in the Indonesian constitution, which supports the ideal of a welfare state, accessible to all citizens.

These ideals are primarily championed by the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah movements. NU, in particular, has pioneered global initiatives aimed at revitalising civilisation to reduce the dangers of war and environmental disasters, encouraging collective contributions to shape a new global agenda for a better world (Abdalla et al. 2023, xvii-xxii).

In contrast, Muhammadiyah focuses on developing economic, educational, and health systems that complement government initiatives, thereby enhancing societal progress (Mas’udi 2020, 2).

To effectively maintain relevance, kiai must master contemporary vocabulary and cultivate an understanding of important issues such as geopolitics, the environment, and food. Rather than engaging in competition with experts in these fields, kiai can play a role by positioning themselves as collaborative partners, promoting the figures and scholarship of experts while advocating for a well-informed and critically thinking society.

Failure to build relationships between experts and the community may result in community rejection of the expertise offered. It is not uncommon for individuals to harbour prejudices against unfamiliar concepts. By legitimising experts and facilitating their engagement through lectures–forum ceramah atau pengajian–and similar platforms, Kiai can foster trust in the community. In addition, Kiai should emphasise the role of ideas as catalysts for improving living standards and societal progress.

On the other hand, in cases where government performance is lacklustre, Kiai can offer constructive criticism, thus serving as agents who are consistently aligned with and accommodate the aspirations of the community. This ensures their function as educators, intellectuals, and social activists who are able to guide the community and government to continuously develop social structures that lead to improvements. Therefore, they can act as partners to the government or opposition figures who provide constructive criticism at the same time.

Kiai Must Embrace Constructive Criticism

Given the magnitude of this role, there is potential for abuse by kiai. One worrying aspect of the kiai’s prominent role is the potential for egoism and exploitation of the community. Therefore, the integrity of kiai needs to be constantly monitored. As individuals emerging in modernity, kiai must be open to criticism. The community, in turn, should not hesitate to criticise and clarify (tabayun) when deemed necessary. Thus, kiai, as community leaders, can uphold their integrity under scrutiny, ensuring their relevance as community guides and cultural brokers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the role of Kiai as cultural broker in the digital age remains relevant and continues to evolve. Although the democratisation of information challenges their traditional authority, kiai continue to serve as important guides, educators, and facilitators in Indonesian society. Their expertise in contextualising information, encouraging critical thinking, and promoting societal progress remains invaluable amidst the abundance of online resources.

In addition, Kiai play an important role in bridging the gap between experts and society, advocating for collaboration over competition. By accepting constructive criticism and aligning themselves with community aspirations, Kiai can maintain their integrity and relevance as trusted cultural broker.

Ultimately, Kiai must navigate the complexities of the digital age while upholding their foundational principles of knowledge dissemination, moral guidance, and activism for the betterment of society. Through adaptation, collaboration, and integrity, Kiai can continue to fulfil their important role as cultural broker, contributing to the prosperity and cohesion of Indonesian society.

Reference

Abdalla, Ulil Abshar, Imam Addaraqutni, Muddassar Ahmed, Miftachul Akyar, Shawki Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Alam, Archbishop Angaelos, Andrés Pastrana Arango, et al. 2023. Proceedings of the R20 International Summit of Religious Leaders : Bali, Indonesia, 2-3 November 2022. Edited by Muhammad Najib Azca, Timothy Samuel Shah, and Charles Holland Taylor. Yogyakarta: UGM Press (Gadjah Mada University Press).

Dhofier, Zamakhsyari. 2011. Tradisi Pesantren : Studi Pandangan Hidup Kyai Dan Visinya Mengenai Masa Depan Indonesia. Jakarta: LP3ES.

Geertz, Clifford. 1960. “The Javanese Kijaji: The Changing Role of a Cultural Broker.” Comparative Studies in Society and History 2, no. 2: 228–49. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0010417500000670.

Mas’udi, Muhammad Maulana. 2020. “Eksistensi Amal Usama Muhammadiyah.” Al-Hikmah : Jurnal Studi Agama-Agama 6, no. 2 (November). https://doi.org/10.30651/AH.V6I2.6457.

Wolf, Eric R. 1956. “Aspects of Group Relations in a Complex Society: Mexico.” American Anthropologist 58, no. 6 (January).

Editor: Sukma W.

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