Wasilatuna: Jurnal Komunikasi dan Penyiaran Islam
Vol. 8 No. 2 (2025): Oktober

Pop-Eschatology: Reconstructing Islamic Death Narratives in Sal Priadi’s ‘Gala Bunga Matahari’

Yanti, Siti Mahmudah (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Oct 2025

Abstract

The rapid digitalization of religion has transformed Islamic communication, enabling pop culture to function as an alternative spiritual vessel. This study examines the representation of da’wah values in “Gala Bunga Matahari” by Sal Priadi, a viral Indonesian song, to analyze how theological messages are encoded in secular pop music. Employing a qualitative approach with Ferdinand de Saussure’s structural semiotics, the research focuses on the dyadic relationship between signifier (lyrics) and signified (concept) to uncover latent spiritual meanings. Data were collected through close reading and purposive sampling of key verses, then analyzed using syntagmatic and paradigmatic dimensions. The findings reveal that the lyrics construct a coherent system of signs representing Islamic eschatology specifically the concept of Barzakh and the afterlife phrased not through explicit religious jargon but through metaphors of nature (sunflowers) and eternal longing. The song reframes death not as a frightening end, but as a continuity of love. The study concludes that this work transcends mere entertainment, serving as a new theological medium for Gen Z. It offers a non-dogmatic approach to understanding mortality and Rida (acceptance), proving that digital pop culture can effectively bridge the gap between rigid orthodoxy and the spiritual needs of contemporary Muslim youth.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

wasilatuna

Publisher

Subject

Religion Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Wasilatuna Journal of Islamic Broadcasting Communication is a journal published by the Islamic Broadcasting and Communication Studies Program Darullughah Waddawah Islamic Institute of Pasuruan This journal provides writings for practitioners and academics to develop theories empirical research and ...