Sejarah Gerakan Sosial Keagamaan di Indonesia Melalui Kiprah Muhammadiyah dan Nahdlatul Ulama

Abstract

This study examines the historical role of Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama,
the two largest socio-religious organizations in Indonesia, which have significantly
shaped the country’s religious landscape and social development since the early
twentieth century. Rooted in the social reality that both organizations operate
through extensive networks of education, religious outreach, and community
services. This research aims to describe their historical origins, patterns of
movement, and contributions to the modernization of Islam in Indonesia. The
study employs a literature review method by analyzing books, academic journals,
organizational documents, and relevant previous studies. A comparative
analytical approach is used to highlight the similarities and differences in the
social-religious characteristics of Muhammadiyah and NU. The findings reveal that
Muhammadiyah emerged as a reformist movement focusing on educational
modernization and purification of Islamic teachings, while NU played a crucial role
in preserving pesantren traditions and local religious culture. Together, they have
become essential pillars in strengthening Islamic moderation and fostering social
cohesion in Indonesia. This study contributes to Indonesian Islamic historiography
by offering a more comprehensive understanding of the socio-religious dynamics
that have shaped the distinctive character of Indonesian Islam.