STRATEGI GURU AGAMA ISLAM DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEDISIPLINAN SHALAT BERJAMA’AH

Abstract

Congregational prayer is an obligation for all Muslims from puberty to the end of life, except for those with serious obstacles. Women are encouraged to pray at home, but for students at SMP IT Rahmatul Ummah Sarolangun, the daily dhuhr prayer in congregation is a mandatory activity. However, in a time when religious values are often overshadowed, students may become less disciplined in their observance. Thus, the role of PAI (Islamic Religious Education) teachers becomes crucial in guiding students to uphold this practice consistently.This research aims to explore how PAI teachers enhance discipline in congregational prayer. Conducted as descriptive qualitative research at SMP IT Rahmatul Ummah Sarolangun, data collection methods included observation, documentation, and interviews. The results show that PAI teachers employ several strategies: (1) joining in group prayers to set an example, (2) offering in-class and out-of-class guidance, (3) applying varied teaching methods, and (4) conducting evaluations.Challenges include difficulty managing some students, limited facilities, low student awareness, tardiness, and peer influence. Solutions are implemented through targeted guidance, facility improvement, and efforts to build student awareness. Overall, the research highlights the essential role of PAI teachers in fostering discipline in congregational prayer among students.