Constructing Muslim womanhood in Indonesia: Hijab and the governmentality of religious organizations

Abstract

This study investigated the ways in which two religious organizations in Indonesia govern female bodies; specifically focusing on the construction of ideal Muslim womanhood through hijab practice. This mixed-method study combines partial least squares path modelling (PLS-path modelling), ethnographic research during fieldwork, and content analysis of social media accounts. The quantitative analysis revealed that among members of Muslimat, involvement with the religious organization and subjective norms exerted a stronger influence on sharia compliance regarding hijab practices than among members of ‘Aisyiyah. Content analysis revealed that Muslimat prefers unified and monotonous hijab styles, while ‘Aisyiyah permits more colours and patterns. While both organizations tend to avoid presenting female sexualities, ‘Aisyiyah favours long and wide hijab, thus more strongly regulating the presentation of female sexualities. This research reveals the dynamics of religious organizations’ governing hegemony, highlighting the increasing influence of religion in the construction of ideal Muslim womanhood in Indonesian society.