ISLAMIC ECOTHEOLOGY STUDIES: AN EXPRESSION OF THE HARMONY OF THE COASTAL COMMUNITY OF KONDANG MERAK TOWARDS NATURE

Abstract

The ecological crisis has become a crucial discourse, because there has been massive pollution, deforestation, and global warming. Of course, Islam as a religion that is rahmatan lil alamin does not only provide mercy for humans but all of nature, including the environment. In this case, humans as creatures who get the mandate as khalifah fil ardh should strive for all forms of activities that preserve the environment. This research departs from the natural beauty that is always maintained at Kondang Merak Beach and this is inseparable from the harmonious relationship between the community built towards nature. So this research aims to examine the concept of Islamic ecotheology embodied by the coastal community of Kondang Merak Beach through various activities so as to realize a form of harmonization with nature. This research uses a qualitative method with an analytical descriptive approach. Data collection was conducted through field observations, in-depth interviews with local communities, especially fishermen, and documentation. Direct observation was conducted to understand the natural conditions at Kondang Merak Beach, while in-depth interviews explored the views of the community regarding the role of ecotheology in their daily activities.  The results showed that the Kondang Merak coastal community expresses a harmonious relationship with nature through environmentally friendly seafood collection activities, mangrove planting, coral reef planting, and the tradition of picking the sea / sea alms. These efforts are based on individual awareness of responsibility as a khalifah on earth. This awareness forms a collective habit in preserving the environment while strengthening the value of community spirituality. Thus, this study shows that environmental management based on Islamic ecotheological values can strengthen the harmonious relationship between humans, nature and God.