Inclusive Theology Research Articles

The dynamics of Sunni-Shia integration in Indonesia: a structural-functional perspective

Much research has been conducted on Sunni-Shia conflicts within the Muslim world. However, there is still limited research on integrating these two denominations. Conflict and integration, in theory, represent two distinct aspects of the same issue. This study aims to elucidate the process of Sunni-Shia integration in Indonesia and the factors contributing to it, employing a structural-functionalist perspective. Additionally, it seeks to assess the potential for such integration. Through intensive library research on offline and online sources, the article uncovers three forms of Sunni-Shia integration: peaceful coexistence, accommodation, and cooperation. These outcomes stem from six interrelated factors: inclusive theology, the role of moderate actors, collective ritual practice, ‘Alid piety, friendship and kinship, and social activity. These factors play important roles in shaping the prospects of Sunni-Shia integration in Indonesia. While the inclusive theology, as the first factor, is normative and may produce normative integration aligned with the prevailing norms, the others are more functional and may elicit functional integration emerging from the functions in the society.

Evaluating the Relationship between Christianity and Indigenous Religion in the Context of the Christian Evangelical Church in Timor (Gereja Masehi Injili di Timor)

This article examines the relationship between the Christian Evangelical Church of Timor (Gereja Masehi Injili di Timor, or GMIT) and Indigenous religions. It gives special attention to the Monthly Cultural Liturgy (Liturgi Bulan Budaya, or LBB), which is a contextual theological construct instituted by the GMIT Synod. This research explores the limited efficacy of contextual theology as the approach only aids GMIT members in observing aspects of Indigeneity within the context of Christian worship, while the LBB otherwise rejects Indigenous cultural and religious practices as errant and infidel. Despite incorporation of Indigenous values within an ecclesial milieu, the discriminatory attitudes of GMIT members towards Indigenous communities remain unaddressed within the current prism of contextual theology. Consequently, I aim to improve Christian contextual theology through studying other religions by means of the Indigenous religion paradigm. The goal is to create a more inclusive theology that encourages GMIT members to be more open and accepting of local communities practicing Indigenous religions. Such an amalgamation yields an intersubjective paradigm of contextual theology, the upshot of which makes for a more adaptive LBB that fosters relationships within the scope of GMIT’s ministerial services.

Al-Hiwar baina al-Iman 'inda Nurcholish Madjid

Interreligious dialogue has been a significant topic in recent years, especially in the effort to create harmony between religious communities. Nurcholis Madjid, a prominent Indonesian Muslim scholar, has advocated for the concept of pluralism in his efforts to promote interfaith dialogue. However, some of his thoughts have been controversial among religious people. Using descriptive and analytical methods, as well as a theological approach, this article aimed to reveal and criticize Nurcholish Madjid's inclusive-pluralist theology. In conclusion, Nurcholish Madjid believes that all religions, including Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Shabiin, are true as long as they believe in Allah, believe in the Day of Judgment, and do good. He argues that Islam is a universal religion and pluralism is sunnatullah, which means it has been occurring since the beginning of time. While Nurcholish Madjid's approach to interreligious dialogue may seem inclusive and tolerant, it deviates from the core teachings of Islam. According to the Qur'an, Islam is the only true religion, and it cannot be equated with any other faith. Pluralist inclusive theology is not a way to achieve inter-religious harmony but instead creates new problems because it reduces the meaning and identity of religions. As such, a critical evaluation of his thoughts is necessary to understand the implications of pluralism in the context of Islam.

Drawing on the Implications of Indonesia's Founding Father's Transformative Theological Practice for the Development of Inclusive Education for Students

This study analyzes the inclusive theology adopted by the Indonesian founding fathers in promoting Pancasila as an indigenous global theology for Indonesia. During the early days of the formation of the state and nation of Indonesia, it is evident that the founding fathers embraced inclusive theology. This paper aims to analyze the inclusive theology of the Indonesian founding fathers, highlighting their role in promoting Pancasila, particularly its first pillar of Ketuhanan Yang Maha Esa (the oneness of God), as an indigenous global theology for Indonesia. Moreover, their inclusive approach serves as an exemplary model of global theology for future Indonesian Muslim generations. Using a qualitative approach, this study analyzes historical documents, such as the debates and discussions in BPUPKI and PPKI, as well as religious texts like the Quran and Hadith. The findings demonstrate that the Indonesian founding fathers practiced inclusive theology by integrating their religious identity with the national identity of Indonesia. By adopting inclusive perspectives and drawing from the rich heritage of inclusive thought in Islamic civilization, their approach to theology provides valuable insights for fostering pluralism and unity within Indonesian society.

Nurcholish Majid's Inclusive Interpretation Pattern in Understanding Religious Tolerance Verses

Inclusive theology manifests itself in religious plurality, particularly in Indonesia, a pluralistic country with many diverse races, ethnicities, and religions. Islam, through its holy text Al-Qur'an, instructs its people to appreciate one another and forbids religious disputes. This paper attempts to reinterpret the verses of religious tolerance by combining the theme interpretation method and content analysis with an inclusive theological approach to address the challenge of interpreting the verses of tolerance. This paper leads to an understanding that a pluralist mindset is required in building inter-religious interactions in Indonesia by embracing the reality of other religions while maintaining one's Muslim identity.

Mercy Oduyoye’s model of ‘partnership between women and men’ in African Christian ministry

Masculinity and manhood ideologies remain a serious theological concern in the context of South Africa and the continent of Africa. The masculinity ideology perceives femaleness as a symbol to be lower than maleness and thereby uses this as a strategy to dominate and oppress women. While the oppression and domination of women is experienced in many parts of African society, such experiences also exist within the church walls. The androcentric culture creates an unbalanced theology which then brings the entire discourse of theologisation into question. As this article grapples with these issues, it employs Mercy Oduyoye’s African women theology, particularly the model of ‘partnership between women and men’ in ministry, to reflect and respond to the issues raised. It further argues that as long as African women are subjected to oppression and domination by ideologies that are adiaphora, Oduyoye’s liberative hermeneutics remain relevant and necessary for doing inclusive theology in Africa.Contribution: While the article grapples with African women theologies within a theological terrain, the implications of the outcome are multidisciplinary as they aim to respond to challenges of oppression, masculinity and manhood ideologies that women face in their daily life.

Toward an Inclusive Theology: Muhammad Syahrur's Hermeneutical Interpretation of Religious Inclusivism based on Al-Quran

Many experts have authored studies on Islamic theology to understand religion in the modern world. The research on religious inclusivism is essential for the literature since many researchers continuously contribute to it. This work analyzes Muhammad Syahrur's Hermeneutical interpretation of religious inclusivism based on the Al-Quran. This research is library research using a qualitative-descriptive approach to explore the views, ideas, concepts, and theories given by Muhammad Syahrur linked to inclusive theology. This research claims that religious inclusivism is highly necessary to create and expand as human interaction is becoming intensive in the current digital era. In this regard, Syahrur proposes a solution to establish religious inclusivism by referring to the content of the verses of the Quran as a moral foundation and life advice that contains verses that are always under the situations of the times and locations. This study offers theoretical implications to improve the literature based on religious inclusivism.

Contextual Islamic Theology – Contemporary (A Study of Hasan Hanafi's Contextual Theology)

In the development of modernity, Religion is often criticized, which then in response to that criticism, people began to question again and look for the most authentic relationship between religion and modern problems. The response appears in various forms of renewal of religious understanding based on the context that occurs. Among the forms of renewal, it is colored by the emergence of Hasan Hanafi's contextual theology with liberation theology, Modernist Theology that desires to modernize the Muslims, trans formative theology that wants to realize the transformation of Muslims societies and inclusive theology that invites Muslims to live an Inclusive religious life, tolerance and respect for religious pluralism. This research is library research with a focus on contemporary contextual theology. Data is collected through documentation techniques that collect data contained in various books, printed journals and online journals. The data that the author has collected was then analyzed deductively. From this research, it can be concluded that this contextual theology talks about God and His relationship with humans both based on revelation and reason. While contemporary theology is theological thoughts that emerged in contemporary times, which emerged to modernize or advance Muslims, realizing the transformation of Muslim society so that they can achieve progress, and the development of religious understanding and life that is inclusive, tolerant, and respectful of religious pluralism.

A Queer Heavenly Family: Expanding Godhood Beyond a Heterosexual, Cisgender Couple

A Queer Heavenly Family: Expanding Godhood Beyond a Heterosexual, Cisgender Couple

Queer Bodies, Queer Technologies, and Queer Policies

Queer Bodies, Queer Technologies, and Queer Policies

Ecumenical Convergences: Romanian Evangelicals Exploring Orthodoxy

Historically, in Romania, the relations between the Romanian Orthodox Church and the evangelical communities have been characterized by tension and mutual distrust. That is why, unfortunately, there has been no official dialogue between the two communities so far. The present article investigates the theoretical possibility for such an ecumenical dialogue to occur by analysing the contributions of several evangelical theologians who published research studies on theological topics specific to Eastern orthodox theology. Their positions were analysed from the perspective of an inclusive theology which allowed us to identify some common themes for both traditions: the authority in interpreting the Scriptures, salvation as a process, and the Church understood through the application of a perichoretic model. All these convergent themes could constitute the basis for a future official ecumenical dialogue between the evangelicals and the orthodox from Romania.

DAKWAH INKLUSIF DALAM KERANGKA MAQĀṢID AL-SHARĪ’AH: STUDI KASUS POLA INTERAKSI LINTAS AGAMA PADA MASYARAKAT KALUKKU

This study aims to elaborate and analyze the harmonization model of religious life which is integrated into the patterns of religious social interaction in Kalukku and the role of religious leaders in knitting religious social harmony. The method applied is a qualitative method using inductive data analysis. The results of this study indicate that the pattern of religious interaction in Kalukku refers to the three patterns of Hossein Nasr interaction, namely: 1) concentric interaction patterns; 2) reciprocal interaction patterns; and 3) bound interaction patterns, which are carried out in an integrated manner have succeeded in creating a dynamic, harmonious and quality model of religious interaction. The motivation that underlies the realization of an energetic relationship refers to the concept of the four pillars of maqāṣid Ibn ‘Āshūr namely Fiṭrah, Samāḥa, al-Musāwāh, and Ḥurriyah. The paradigm of religious leaders towards the existence of cross-faith parties leads to a tolerant attitude based on the concept of Cak Nur's inclusive theology. The harmony and tolerant paradigm in Kalukku is built through formal and non-formal da'wah which is woven in efforts to acculturate religion and culture.

Cultural syncretism: an investigative study of nineteenth century Sikh Fresco paintings in Baba Sir Khem Singh Bedi’s Haveli in Punjab/Pakistan

ABSTRACT This paper is an exploration and investigation of the frescoes that decorate the majestic haveli (mansion) of Baba Sir Khem Singh Bedi (1832–1905), a Sikh social and education reformer and religious leader. The haveli was constructed in the late nineteenth century. The frescoes are beautiful and interesting in themselves and fill the walls with a plethora of colour and design. They are unique because they represent three religions and cultures, i.e. Sikhism, Hinduism and Islam. Thus this art work is evidence of cultural syncretism. This study used ethnographic field research of the subject at the site and analysis of secondary data. Through close examination of and interpreting these icons this study concluded that this collection must have been Baba Khem Singh’s tribute to the religious and historical personalities he admired; his intention to depict the Sikh religion in its truer sense of belief in a more inclusive theology and his own practical and benevolent religious idealism and also to promote cross culture/religious harmony. This study surmised that displaying these frescoes in his domestic environment gave this ‘pilgrim of the soul’ a transcendental sense of security, protection and certitude in portraying a broader and friendlier universe. The condition of the historic haveli is deteriorating rapidly and the government has not designated it as a heritage site so that it may be protected. Therefore, this study would like to suggest that perhaps UNESCO might consider this site worth conserving.

Teologi Inklusif Untuk Membangun Kerukunan (Analisis Teks Tutur Jatiswara)

<p><em>Harmony can be interpreted as a living and living condition that reflects an atmosphere of peace, order, peace, prosperity, respect, respect, price respect, tolerance, mutual cooperation in accordance with religious teachings. Harmony that adheres to the teachings of each religion can make every group among fellow human beings who have different beliefs as an open group (inclusive). Regarding this reality, in the text of Tutur Jatiswara there is an inclusive theological concept that can be a "nutrient" to build harmony, so that a plural religious life can live harmoniously, peacefully and help one another in the joys and sorrows. Inclusive is a way of thinking and an open attitude to all differences. Inclusive theology opens the door to apology and recognizes the existence of truth and salvation in other religions.</em></p><em>Based on several excerpts in the text of Tutur Jatiswara, that truth is not narrow and not exclusive, because the truth lies in a vast expanse. This means that the truth radiates on each side. Because it radiates on every side, humans must build an inclusive paradigm of thinking so that they can become 'religious people', not just 'feel' religious or do religious activities. By being a religious person, the application of life together will form mutual respect (price-respecting), compassion (love-loving), and fostering (respect) towards adherents of different religions because they have the same rights.</em>

The Concept of Imago Dei as a Symbol of Religious Inclusion and Human Dignity

This article aims to examine how the concept of Imago Dei can serve as a symbol for the broadly understood idea of religious inclusion and human dignity. The article explores the concept of Imago Dei primarily from a protological perspective, analyzing its usage in biblical writings, theological tradition and modern philosophy. The substantial, relational and functional—which three usages of the concept can be found in the inclusive theology of Gregory of Nyssa—are analyzed in this article. Arguably, in the context of religious inclusion, the relational angle of Imago Dei seems to be the most important. Similarly contemporary Protestant theologian, Jürgen Moltmann states in his book, God in the Creation, that the “relational” concept of Imago Dei underscores the fundamental dignity of every person. In his book, God for Secular Society, Moltmann states that properly understood human rights should include democratic relationships between people, cooperation between societies, concern for the environment in which people live, and responsibility for future generations. From these perspectives, the concept of Imago Dei can be utilized as a symbol indicating the dignity of every person and human community, but also a symbol against any types of racism, nationalism or xenophobia.

ENVIRONMENTAL THEOLOGY IN ISLAM AND CHRISTIANITY (A study of the thoughts of Mujiyono Abdillah and Robert P. Borrong)

It is an undeniable fact that environmental crisis take place everywhere. It causes environmental damage in various spheres This crisis demands some awareness from the society. Therefore, it is not surprising that many activists of environment create concepts, both secular and religious nuance, to reduce the crisis. In the last few years, concept of theology of environment started to appear. This concept is relevant to be discussed, as it could bridge the secular and theological theory of environment. This research aims to look what is the environmental theology ideas of Mujiyono Abdillah and Robert P. Borrong. Also, this research identifies the similarities and differences between Abdillah’s and Borrong’s thoughts as well as how their theories could contribute to solve the environmental crisis. This is a library research and the primary source of this study is a book entitled Agama Ramah Lingkungan - Perspektif Al-Qur’an (Eco-Friendly Religion - Perspective of the Qur'an) by Mujiyono Abdillah work and Borrong’s work entitled Etika Bumi Baru (Neo-Eco Ethics). The data is analyzed by the hermeneutic theory of Hans-Georg Gadamer. The research found out that environmental theology of Abdillah includes proportional theology and meta-social-system theory. While Borrong also constructs two theories of environmental theology: theocentric inclusive theology and new earth ethic. Through these theological theories, Abdillah and Borrong expect to awaken people minds so that they could restructure their relationship with the environment. Both of the authors employ different methods. While Abdillah only utilize theology as the basis of his argument, Borrong benefits from both theology as well as biblical ethics. These theories provide an invaluable contribution to be part of the solution to the environmental crisis as they could be the alternative environmental theory which change the attitude of the community in treating the environment.

The Nature of Pentecostal Theology: A Response to Velli-Matti Kärkkäinen and Amos Yong

The author offers a response to Velli-Matti Kärkkäinen’s essay, ‘Pentecostal Pneumatology of Religions: The Contribution of Pentecostalism to Our Understanding of the Work of God’s Spirit in the World’, which appeared in The Spirit in the World (2009) and often cites the work of Amos Yong. The author, who also draws from their wider writings, argues that while Kärkkäinen and Yong hail from Pentecostal backgrounds, their theological orientation is charismatic rather than Pentecostal; their approach is pneumatological rather than Pentecostal; and their methodology is ecumenical rather than Evangelical. More specifically, the author suggests that Kärkkäinen and Yong’s call for Pentecostals to embrace a more inclusive theology of religions is fraught with perils.

Book Review: Toward an Inclusive Theology for Global Christianity: Amos Yong with Jonathan A. Anderson, Renewing Christian Theology: Systematics for a Global Christianity

Book Review: Toward an Inclusive Theology for Global Christianity: Amos Yong with Jonathan A. Anderson, <i>Renewing Christian Theology: Systematics for a Global Christianity</i>

Keindahan dalam Disabilitas

This article challenges conceptions of intellectual disability that view such conditions from the perspective of normalcy. In Indonesia, conversations of theological anthropology still employ a medical model lens, which perceives disability merely as bodily and intellectual impairments, thus failing the standard of "normal." Normalcy unilaterally defines disability and dictates normative approaches toward persons with disabilities. Consequently, persons with disabilities are perceived in Indonesia as mere objects of charity to be pitied. On the other hand, they remain susceptible to suffering violence. These trends owing to the fact that Indonesian society does not adequately provide either tangible resource considerations or sufficient social support. Lacunae in the theological literature concerning disability in Indonesian contexts foment in the life of the church further challenges for persons with disabilities. For persons there with intellectual disabilities, in particular, the situation is even more severe, as their condition is regarded as a kind of punishment for sin and further stigmatized as abnormal. This article offers a constructive theology of disability to dismantle the myth of normalcy, which reduces persons with disabilities to being merely impaired organisms within society. Theological musings on the beauty of all creation, the perichoretic relationship within the Trinity, the doctrines of imago Dei and imago Christi are taken up in this essay, to offer an inclusive theology expressly for persons with intellectual disabilities.

Teologi Inklusif Nurcholish Madjid: Harmonisasi Antara Keislaman, Keindonesiaan, dan Kemoderenan

This article is motivated by the phenomenon exists today, that Muslims are no longer perform properly inclusive theology. Religion is expected to bring mercy to all the worlds mission no longer demonstrate their role appropriately. Today most Muslims understand Islam as a doctrinal teachings, exclusive, and opposite with local wisdom and culture of Indonesia. Nurcholish Madjid gives a different idea in understanding Islam. For him, Islam is a modern and inclusive teaching of the other religions and cultures, and countries. Madjid is famous for his ideas about the reform of Islamic thought. According to him, Islam should be involved in the struggles modernistic based on the richness of traditional Islamic thought that have been established, once placed in the context of Indonesian-ness. Methodologically this study uses hermeneutic approach, and methods that is used in the search data is library research.