Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia, and it has a strong presence not only in the country but also globally. It is known for being inclusive, moderate, and promoting social justice and religious tolerance. As a result, NU has formed a vast and influential network known as the "Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama" or the "Big Family of Nahdlatul Ulama". This network plays a vital role in various aspects of Indonesian society and promotes the values and principles of NU.
Structure and Membership
The Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama consists of NU members and affiliated groups that share the same vision and ideology. NU has a hierarchical structure, with the highest authority held by the Rais Aam (Supreme Leader). However, the Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama operates more as an extended family, with members supporting and collaborating with each other in various endeavors.
The network includes various NU-related organizations, such as Banser (NU’s youth wing), Fatayat NU (NU women’s organization), Muslimat NU (NU’s women’s division), and many others. These organizations have their own leadership structures but work together under the umbrella of NU, contributing to the unity and strength of the Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama.
Contributions and Activities
The Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama is actively involved in various fields, including education, social welfare, religious preaching, and politics. One of its primary focuses is education, with NU establishing and managing a vast network of Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) throughout Indonesia. These pesantren provide education and religious guidance to millions of students and play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Islamic values and teachings.
In terms of social welfare, the Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama operates numerous charitable organizations and foundations. These institutions provide assistance to the underprivileged, including healthcare services, disaster relief, poverty alleviation programs, and support for small businesses. NU’s commitment to social justice is a core element of its ideology, and the Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama actively translates this commitment into practical initiatives.
Religious preaching and guidance are other key activities of the Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama. NU puts a strong emphasis on promoting a moderate and inclusive form of Islam, which is tolerant and respectful of other faiths and cultures. Members of the network are involved in religious teaching, organizing study circles, seminars, and conferences, and publishing magazines and books to disseminate authentic Islamic teachings that counter extremist ideologies.
Political Influence
The Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama also wields significant political influence in Indonesia. NU has been involved in politics since the country’s independence and has established political parties that represent its interests and values. NU’s political arm, the National Awakening Party (PKB), has been an influential force in Indonesian politics, participating in both the national and local levels.
The Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama has often played a crucial role in shaping public opinion, supporting political candidates, and advocating for policies aligned with its values. NU’s moderate and inclusive stance has helped it gain a broad appeal and influence public discourse on various issues, including religious tolerance, social justice, and human rights.
Conclusion
The Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama is a powerful and influential network that extends beyond Nahdlatul Ulama itself. By bringing together NU members and affiliated groups, the Keluarga Besar Nahdlatul Ulama contributes to various aspects of Indonesian society, ranging from education and social welfare to religious preaching and political influence. Its commitment to promoting moderate and inclusive Islam has made it a significant force in Indonesia’s social, cultural, and political landscape.
