Patterns of women empowerment in rural Indonesia: the role of quran completion tradition

This qualitative study examines the historical context and implications of women's empowerment in rural Gorontalo, Indonesia, focusing on the Quran Completion tradition. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with elderly women, religious figures, and traditional practitioners of the Quran Completion tradition. The findings indicated that despite Indonesia's independence, women in rural areas faced significant limitations during the study period. Adolescent girls were confined to household activities and were prohibited from pursuing formal education outside their homes. Interestingly, this tradition predates the official discourse on women's empowerment, initiated by the Indonesian government in 1972. It served as a symbol for parents to showcase their success in educating their daughters and gradually encouraged women to assume public roles, demonstrating their Quranic recitation skills, and boosting their confidence to participate in public spheres. Psychologically, the Quran Completion tradition played a pivotal role in enhancing women's self-assurance and fostering their active engagement with society. While this empowerment pattern was widespread among Gorontalo women in the past, the present-day practice of the Quran Completion tradition has undergone significant changes. It is now primarily observed during wedding ceremonies by a limited number of individuals dedicated to preserving Gorontalo's culture.