Riri, who had been mostly listening up until then, suddenly spoke up with a serious expression. However, there was a slight sparkle in her eyes that lightened the mood.
"Actually, when talking about clear and directed policies, I was thinking about Prophet Muhammad," Riri said as she adjusted her hijab, looking like a very pious, very Islamic woman. "Prophet Muhammad was extraordinary in building clear policies, and he successfully led with principles that were very focused."
Marlon turned to look at Riri, curious, while Romo and Bu Siti stared at her, puzzled.
"What's the connection, Riri?" Romo asked, smiling with half curiosity.
Riri smiled broadly, raising her hand as if she were giving a lecture. "Let's look at it from an economic perspective, Bu. The Five Pillars of Islam, right? Well, if we relate it to economics, the first one, the Shahada, is like having a vision, knowing the direction that the country or a business should go. Without a vision, we could go anywhere, right? So, the Shahada is like a 'brand' or a 'core value' that forms the foundation of everything."
Bu Siti listened seriously, while Marlon started laughing quietly, sensing Riri's typical humor.
"Next, there's Salah," Riri continued, moving her hands, "Salah is time management. Imagine if we didn't have a clear schedule in our lives, everything would be chaotic. So, Salah is actually time management, teaching us to be productive and focused. Without time management, we would just be tossed around."
Marlon could hardly contain his laughter, watching Riri explain so seriously with a strong Islamic tone.
"Then, Zakat," Riri continued enthusiastically, "Zakat is wealth distribution, Bu. It's like the concept of economic equality. If everyone has the awareness to share, no one will go hungry or lack opportunities. Zakat is like 'income redistribution' in a country, so there's no sharp economic gap."
Romo smiled, enjoying Riri's explanation that blended religion with an economic perspective. "And then there's fasting, right?" Romo asked with a small laugh.
Riri nodded, "Exactly! Fasting is about discipline and self-control. If we can control our desires for an entire month, it means we can resist the urge to be consumptive, not wasteful, and better manage our spending. That, of course, ties into the economy too, Bu."
Bu Siti chuckled, feeling lightened by Riri's perspective that seemed to offer a new outlook on worship.
"Lastly, Hajj," Riri said, seriously yet casually. "Hajj is like a big company that organizes logistics in an orderly manner. People come from all directions, but with a structured system, everyone can reach their destination safely. This is similar to large-scale management, like a big national project. A clear system is needed so everything runs according to plan."
Marlon laughed again, unable to hold back. "Riri, you're really teaching religion while talking about economics. That's amazing!"
Riri smiled widely, adjusting her hijab, and said, "Well, economics is part of life, Marlon. If there's no connection between knowledge, everything can fall apart, like this country right now."
Riri smiled even wider, feeling that her explanation wasn't yet complete. "Look, Bu, if we dive deeper into the Five Pillars of Islam, it's actually not just about religion, but also about economics and industry. For example, Salah. People need prayer rugs, supplies for worship, even special clothes. This creates an opportunity for the textile industry to grow, right?"
Marlon, who had been smiling while listening, nodded thoughtfully. "Oh, yeah, that's true. So, it's not just about religion, but it connects to economics. A lot of industries can thrive from those needs."
"Exactly!" Riri continued, "And then, when we talk about Zakat, it actually encourages the emergence of philanthropic industries and social financial institutions. These institutions can manage the distribution of zakat funds to those in need. Many people work in this sector, some even starting businesses specifically to manage zakat and charity funds. This also drives the service sector, right?"
Romo began to be intrigued by Riri's thoughts, although he was a bit surprised. "So, you're saying the Five Pillars of Islam are connected to economic growth too?"
Riri nodded confidently. "Yes, Romo! Actually, there's so much. For example, Hajj is related to the tourism industry, transportation, and logistics. Every year, tens of thousands of people go to Mecca. They need accommodation, transportation, catering, even tour guides. The infrastructure development to support Hajj also creates jobs. That's also part of the economy!"
Bu Siti chuckled softly. "So, from an economic standpoint, Prophet Muhammad didn't just teach religion, he also taught us how to do business?"
"Exactly, Bu!" Riri answered eagerly. "That's the greatness of Prophet Muhammad. He didn't just provide religious teachings, but also gave the foundation that allows the economy to develop naturally. All of this is connected—worship and economic activities. Everything related to the Five Pillars actually leads to greater social and economic welfare."
Marlon added, "So, from an economic perspective, religion and the state can't be separated. What the Prophet taught isn't just about how we draw closer to God, but also about how we maintain the sustainability of social and economic life."
Riri smiled proudly, feeling that her explanation had been well received. "Isn't it right if I say the Five Pillars of Islam are more than just religion? They also build industries and an economy related to public welfare?"
After this long and deep conversation, the atmosphere fell silent for a moment. They all seemed to be thinking, processing what had just been discussed. Only the sound of footsteps from vendors starting to close their stalls and the soft wind blowing in the market filled the silence.
Finally, Romo, sitting beside Bu Siti, began speaking in a more serious tone, yet still full of warmth. "Bu Siti, actually, the purpose of our research isn't far from what we just talked about," he said calmly. "For a long time, we've often been forced to categorize everything. This is good, that's bad. Like earlier, we saw the New Order as something bad, black. Reform was seen as something white and full of hope."
Bu Siti listened carefully, while Marlon and Riri nodded. They were starting to understand where Romo was going.
"But the reality is," Romo continued, "there were many good things that happened during the New Order that we often overlook. Like what you told us earlier, about how prices were low, about the economic stability that felt more organized, and even about the GBHN providing clear direction. There were certainly many shortcomings and injustices during that time, but we also have to acknowledge that there were many things that brought comfort to the people. That's what we need to acknowledge."
Riri, listening carefully, nodded slowly. "That's right, Romo. We often see everything from one perspective. But in this research, we want to show that nothing is truly black or white. Everything falls in the gray area. We want to dig deeper into how big changes, like reform, don't automatically bring goodness. Sometimes, what once felt stable is destroyed afterward."
Marlon added, "Yes, what I've found in this journey, in our observations, is the reality that in every change, there are many unforeseen consequences. Not everything bad in the past needs to be eradicated, and not everything new brings goodness."
Romo nodded. "Exactly. And this isn't just a matter of politics or economics. In religion, we're also taught not to view everything in black-and-white terms. In my religious teachings, we're taught to look with more wisdom, with a deeper understanding. Sometimes, something that seems bad to us on the surface actually has a greater purpose behind it. God teaches us to understand everything with a broader heart."
Marlon and Riri fell silent for a moment, reflecting on Romo's words. There was something profound in this conversation. "So," Riri said seriously, "the purpose of this research is to look deeper into how we can see every situation without rushing to label it. We want to understand the social, political, and economic dynamics in a broader context, without getting trapped in black-and-white views."
Romo looked at them attentively. "Exactly, Marlon. There's so much we can learn if we open our minds and hearts to see everything more comprehensively. Religion teaches us that everything in this world has its process. We can't just judge from one side."
Marlon smiled, slightly clarifying the direction of their conversation. "Of course, Bu Siti, our research isn't that broad. We're more focused on a smaller, more specific example, which is the influence of the Seven Deadly Sins and Seven Heavenly Virtues in everyday life."
Bu Siti furrowed her brow, clearly confused. "Seven... what? I'm not too familiar with that, young ones," she said, squinting a little.
Marlon noticed her confusion and decided to explain in simpler terms. "Sorry, Bu, let me explain briefly. The Seven Deadly Sins are seven bad habits often considered major sins in many religious teachings. They are greed, anger, envy, pride, anxiety, carelessness, and lust. On the other hand, the Seven Heavenly Virtues are the opposite—seven virtues that everyone should possess: humility, patience, kindness, perseverance, honesty, self-control, and generosity."
Riri added with a more economical tone, "Yes, Bu Siti. From an economic perspective, these bad habits are often linked to failures in resource management. For example, greed can trigger economic imbalances, while humility and self-control can lead to fairer distribution and economic stability."
Bu Siti nodded, though she still seemed a bit confused. "So, you mean your research is about... seeing how these habits affect everyday life? But, it seems... not an easy task, right?"
Marlon smiled, realizing this explanation might sound heavy. "Exactly, Bu. That's why we're focusing on smaller things that are more noticeable in society, like here in the market. For instance, greed can cause prices to soar, while generosity makes traders more willing to share with each other. We want to see if, as we discussed earlier, many things happening in society can be viewed from two sides—virtue and vice—and how these affect social and economic welfare."
Riri added, "We're not here to judge, Bu. We're just trying to see how much impact these 'virtues' or 'vices' have in everyday life. Because in the end, whether it's in this market or in the larger world, everything is connected."
Bu Siti nodded, still a little confused but looking intrigued. "Hmm... I don't understand all of it, but it seems your research is important for understanding our current situation."
Romo smiled upon hearing that, adding, "Yes, Bu. Because sometimes we focus too much on one side, and forget that everything is complex. There's good, there's bad, and sometimes both exist at the same time."
Days passed quickly, and their lives continued with Bu Siti. They kept helping her in the market, interacting with other traders, and trying to understand the more complex dynamics of market life beyond just buying and selling transactions. Bu Siti, who had gotten used to their presence, began introducing Marlon, Riri, and Romo to other sellers in the market.
"These are my nephews," Bu Siti said with a big smile as she introduced them to other traders. "They're looking for materials for their research, so don't hesitate if they ask questions."
From then on, their interactions with the market traders became smoother. Whenever they had the chance, Marlon, Riri, and Romo asked light questions, trying to gather information from a more human and realistic perspective. They began speaking more freely with the traders, who now recognized them as "Bu Siti's nephews."
The busy morning market atmosphere gradually quieted down over time. The traders started wrapping up their last transactions, the stalls were tidied up, and the bargaining voices began to fade. Marlon, Riri, and Romo, now accustomed to this routine, helped Bu Siti clean up.
"Bu Siti, are we still talking tonight?" Marlon asked as he helped tidy up some of the merchandise.
Bu Siti nodded. "Of course, dear. We'll continue our conversation tonight, but if you need to go home first, that's fine too."
Once all the stalls were tidy and the goods were neatly arranged, they hurried to Bu Siti's house to continue their deeper conversation. The busy market street, which had been crowded earlier, was now starting to quiet down, with only a few traders left cleaning up the remnants of their sales. The late afternoon sky began to turn yellow, signaling that it was almost time to head home.
Arriving at Bu Siti's house, they sat down again in the simple living room. The lights began to shine, creating a cozy atmosphere amidst their deepening conversation. Marlon started again with a question, speaking in a lighter tone, yet still serious.
"Bu Siti," Romo began, his eyes focused and attentive. "I think there's something I'd like to ask. From what I observed in the market, most of the traders here seem to be Muslim, right? But there are some things I've noticed that seem to contradict religious teachings."
Bu Siti raised an eyebrow, curious about what Romo meant. "What do you mean, Mo?"
Romo took a breath and then explained gently, "For example, some are using 'penglaris' (market charms). I also heard that some use amulets to attract buyers or even do things considered supernatural to bring in prosperity. Isn't that contradictory to religious teachings, Bu? In Islam, shouldn't we believe in destiny and good effort, rather than relying on things like that?"
"Mo," Bu Siti began, her voice soft and filled with concern. "It's not just about the use of charms and magic in the market. There's something else, something more... frightening, more terrifying."
Romo looked at Bu Siti with full attention, as did Marlon and Riri, who were now listening more seriously.
"There's something supernatural, Mo," Bu Siti continued hesitantly. "Even my late husband, he experienced it directly. There was one time when our store became completely deserted. Every day, no customers came. We tried everything, but it was still empty. My husband was almost desperate at that time."
Marlon leaned forward slightly, curious about Bu Siti's story. "So, what happened next, Bu?"
Bu Siti took a deep breath, her eyes blank, as if she were transported back to that time. "One night, my husband suddenly vomited blood. They said it was some sort of magic. I didn't understand. We sought help from various people, but our store still didn't sell. Eventually, someone told us that someone had cursed us, and that was why our store was empty."
Riri looked at Bu Siti with empathy. "That must have been very scary, Bu."
Bu Siti nodded, still clearly shaken by the memory. "Yes, Riri. But what confuses me is, why would someone do that? We lived honestly, we worked hard. But why would someone want to block our way using supernatural means?"
Romo nodded slowly, trying to understand from a religious perspective. "Sometimes, Bu, there are people who feel so desperate, who feel like their business or their life is threatened. They try to deal with that fear in the wrong ways, like using black magic or other supernatural things. However, religion teaches us not to rely on such unclear things. There is always a right and good path in religious teachings."
Marlon added, "Economically, people under pressure often seek shortcuts. They think it's faster and easier to solve their problems that way, but it's just a temporary solution that causes damage. Even in economics, trust is incredibly important. Without it, the market will collapse."
Riri, usually serious about economics, also explained, "And things like this can disrupt the market's order, Bu. If everyone just focuses on supernatural methods or seeks profit dishonestly, the market becomes unhealthy. This is also what can hinder our economy."
Bu Siti, with a weary expression, spoke again, revealing how complicated the competition in the market really was. Her voice grew heavy again, as if every word she spoke carried the weight of bitter experiences.
"Mo, Riri, Marlon," she said quietly. "In the market, it's not that simple. The competition is fierce. If one person cheats, does something supernatural, like using magic or charms, others often follow suit. The reasons vary. Some say it's to make their goods sell, others say it's to survive. No one wants to lose."
Marlon and Riri exchanged glances, as if they already knew what she was about to say next.
Bu Siti continued, "There was one time when a merchant got involved in a huge conflict, and it even cost a life. All because they were fighting over customers. There were also loan sharks starting to spread, helping merchants with high interest. For them, capital for business became like a basic necessity they couldn't negotiate. Without it, they couldn't sell, and in the end, they went into debt."
Riri looked at Bu Siti seriously, realizing how tough life in the market was for her. "Yes, Bu, but the problem is, if this continues, no one will move forward. Everyone will just survive, but no one will develop."
Bu Siti nodded slowly, her eyes starting to well up, perhaps due to the painful memories. "That's right, Riri. But sometimes, we don't have any other choice, especially if everyone is already trapped in that cycle."
The room fell silent for a moment. Romo, who had been listening attentively, finally spoke up, trying to view the situation from a religious standpoint. "Bu, looking at all of this, I'm starting to wonder—does religion no longer matter in such a reality? How can things get to this point, where people justify doing anything to survive and advance? Shouldn't religion provide clear guidance on how to live the right way? Why is this happening?"