Ulama Perempuan dan Otoritas Keagamaan: Fenomena Perempuan Pempimpin Pesantren Perspektif Mubadalah di Pondok Pesantren Roudlotul Qur’an Jember

Abstract

The phenomenon of women leading Islamic boarding schools increasingly shows the important role of female ulama in religious authority in Indonesia. This research examines the role and authority of female ulama at the Roudlotul Qur'an Jember Islamic Boarding School from a Punjabi perspective, emphasizing gender equality and justice in social and religious interactions. This research aims to understand how female ulama build their religious authority, the challenges they face, and the impact on society's views regarding the role of women in religious leadership. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method at the Roudlotul Qur'an Jember Islamic Boarding School. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis. The research results show that female ulama at this Islamic boarding school can demonstrate strong intellectual and spiritual capacities, thereby gaining legitimacy as religious leaders. The mubindah approach they apply creates an inclusive and fair environment, where the values of gender equality are practiced in religious teaching and Islamic boarding school activities. These findings highlight the importance of the mubindah approach in strengthening the religious authority of female clerics, as well as changing public perceptions regarding women's leadership in religious institutions