The intense engagement with Gus Dur’s thoughts and various ideas promoting a liberal interpretation of Islam further accentuated both the liberalism and radicalism within PMII. In the early 1990s, figures such as Ulil Abhsar Abdalla, Mun’iem DZ, and Ahmad Baso emerged. The reading references for PMII members during that period were indeed ‘terrifying,’ ranging from leftist Islamic thoughts following Hassan Hanafi’s ideas, the Islamic critique in the style of Mohammed Arkoun, the liberation theology of Ashgar Ali Enginer, Nasr Hamid Abu Zaid’s critique of Quranic sciences, to post-traditionalism by Muhammad Abied Al-Jabiri.
Where does Gus Dur’s thinking stand within PMII today? Or more precisely, where do the thoughts of PMII members align with Gus Dur’s?
Merely knowing a fraction of Gus Dur’s biography might not suffice for PMII members to truly delve into the depths of his thoughts. Let’s set aside the issues surrounding Islamic thought within PMII for a moment. A figure as colossal as Gus Dur seems somewhat distant from the minds of PMII members today. However, Gus Dur’s immense contributions to the critical tradition of PMII remain substantial and impactful. This serves as a poignant reminder for current PMII members.
The discussion isn’t centered on the current interests, talents, or tendencies of PMII members. The decline in critical and argumentative prowess today serves as a significant area for evaluation within PMII. It’s not just about being stagnant in Aswaja (Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah) teachings alone. PMII members should revisit the ideological roots, namely Gus Dur’s thoughts. Ultimately, this approach will fortify their perspective on the Aswaja ideology.