The Shifting Social-Religious Behavior of the Minority Muslim Jama’ah Tabligh COVID-19 Cluster in Wonosobo, Indonesia

Abstract

This article discusses the changes in religious rituals and social relations experienced by members of the Jama’ah Tabligh as a minority group identified as a cluster in the spread of COVID-19 in Wonosobo, Indonesia. The socio-religious changes during the pandemic were not only influenced by the medical dangers of COVID-19 but also by the societal stigma toward groups of sufferers. This article is based on a research conducted in November 2020 using qualitative methods with data collected through interviews and observations. The results of this study indicate that changes in worship behavior carried out by members of the Jama’ah Tabligh in Wonosobo are caused by the negative societal stigma toward the group. Other groups carried out behaviors of repression and expulsion of all members of the Jama’ah Tabligh, a minority group. As a result of the negative stigma, members of Jama’ah Tabligh responded with a more inclusive attitude. Excessive concerns raised by the community are influenced by mitigation efforts carried out by the authorities in a repressive manner. The socio-religious conflicts that have emerged after the pandemic should be a concern for all groups, beyond health and economic recovery.