The Dynamics of Muhammadiyah and Salafi Preaching in Indonesia: An Exploration of Roles, Approaches and Impacts

This research aims to explore the dynamics of Muhammadiyah and Salafi preachers in the context of Islamic teachings and education in Tebing Tinggi City. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed using thematic techniques. The results showed that there are similarities as well as significant differences in the roles and approaches to preaching by Muhammadiyah and Salafi preachers that have an impact on the understanding and practice of Islamic teachings among the community. Muhammadiyah clerics with a more open educational tradition tend to promote critical thinking and dialogue. Meanwhile, Salafi clerics focus more on purifying Islamic teachings in accordance with classical texts. In proselytising religious education, Muhammadiyah ustadz tend to use a more interactive, participatory and problem-based approach that allows students to be directly involved in the learning process. In contrast, Salafi ustadz prefer conventional learning with a focus on direct teaching and memorisation.