Indonesian Ustazah Goes Viral for Charging to Dip Finger in Bottled Water
A female religious teacher, or ustazah, from Jember in East Java, Indonesia, has sparked controversy after a video of her blessing bottled water by dipping her finger into it went viral on social media.
The clip, which has since circulated widely, shows the woman receiving payments from people after she allegedly “blesses” the water simply by touching it with her finger. The water is believed by her clients to have healing properties and is intended for medicinal use.
This is not the first instance of such claims involving so-called religious figures in Indonesia. Similar cases have emerged before, where individuals offered water they claimed to have spiritually enhanced — usually for a fee.
The recent footage has triggered a wave of criticism and mockery from netizens. Many questioned the logic and authenticity behind such practices, especially when money is involved.
One user sarcastically commented, “What if she used that very finger to pick her nose?”
Another added, “It’s 2025, and people are still falling for things like this?”
While some defended her actions as part of traditional spiritual beliefs, others viewed it as a clear exploitation of religion and faith for monetary gain.
This incident has again raised discussions about the commercialization of spirituality and how vulnerable individuals often fall victim to questionable religious claims in desperate search of healing.
By Tarziman — 06 May 2025, 10:08 AM
