Aesthetic Reception of the Chants of Praise to the Prophet Muhammad in the Tradition of Reciting the Book of Al-Barzanji in Lombok

Abstract

This research discusses the aesthetic reception of the chanting of praise to the Prophet Muhammad in the tradition of reading the Al-Barzanji book in Mekebat Hamlet, Prai Meke Village, Central Lombok. The tradition of reciting the Al-Barzanji book has become part of the religious and cultural rituals of the local community, which is carried out at various events such as the commemoration of the Prophet's birthday, weddings, aqiqah, and other thanksgiving. This research uses a qualitative approach with observation, interview, and text analysis methods based on Wolfgang Iser's aesthetic reception theory. The results show that the recitation of Al-Barzanji is not just a ritual, but also has spiritual and social values for the community. This recitation serves as a means of strengthening love for the Prophet, strengthening ukhuwah Islamiyah, and becoming a medium for transferring Islamic values to the younger generation. However, there is also a perception that this tradition has a sacred aspect that makes it seem mandatory in every celebration. This research provides insight into how religious traditions can shape a community's cultural and religious identity as well as the challenges of maintaining the purity of faith amidst evolving cultural practices.