MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SURAKARTA – Worship in Islam should go beyond rituals and contribute to the well-being of society, said Ahmad Dahlan Rais, Chairperson of Muhammadiyah.
Ahmad Dahlan Rais explained that true worship has three key dimensions: formal, spiritual, and social.
“Worship is not just about performing rituals. We should understand its spiritual meaning so it can bring positive change to society. That’s why worship in Islam follows a trilogy: formal, spiritual, and social,” said Ahmad Dahlan Rais in the Ramadan preaching conducted by the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of Central Java in Surakarta on March 17.
The formal aspect refers to following religious practices according to Islamic teachings. The spiritual aspect involves deep reflection and connection with faith. The social dimension focuses on how worship should inspire actions that benefit others.
Ahmad Dahlan Rais also encouraged Muhammadiyah members to embrace Islam Berkemajuan (Progressive Islam), which promotes moderation (wasathiyah) in religious practice. He emphasized that this approach is based on four key principles: monotheism (tauhid), guidance from the Quran and Sunnah, openness to ijtihad (critical thinking in religious matters), and a balanced, inclusive perspective that benefits all of humanity.
He expressed hope that a deeper understanding of worship would not only strengthen personal faith but also encourage meaningful contributions to society.
