The Role of Religious Leaders in Healing Mental Disorders through Ritual Practices at PRS Maunatul Mubarok, Demak

Abstract

In Indonesia, religious- and tradition-based healing methods are still widely practiced, especially in rural areas with strong attachments to religious values. The study focused on how religious leaders, through certain rituals, act as healing agents believed to be able to restore spiritual balance and mental health to patients. Using an anthropological approach, research was conducted at PRS Maunatul Mubarok, Demak, Central Java, a religious healing center. Data was obtained through in-depth interviews and first-hand observation of healing ritual practices. The results of the study show that healing rituals function not only as therapeutic efforts, but also as social mechanisms that strengthen community solidarity and instill hope for patients. Furthermore, these findings highlight the importance of cross-cultural understanding in mental health systems and the need to develop treatment approaches that integrate medical and religious aspects in a balanced manner. Religious leaders and ritual-based healing practices have a significant role to play in providing alternative treatment for mental disorders, especially in communities heavily influenced by tradition and religion.