Interfaith Relations Research Articles

The Polish Noble Society of the Early 1690s. Annotation and Counter-Reformation

The article analyzes evidence from publicistic texts about the reaction of the Polish nobility of different confessions to the pogroms of Protestant churches in cities in the early 1690s, where the nature of interfaith relations differed drastically from their nature in many other European countries. A number of acts here sanctioned the legality of the existence in the country of Christian denominations different from the dominant Catholic faith. But in the 1590s, persecution of followers of Protestantism began. Particular attention in the article is paid to the reasons of the strong negative reaction of nobility to their «sbors» by supporters of the Counter-Reformation. Among them the author names the specific consciousness of the Polish noble society: both the Catholic and Protestant gentry perceived themselves as a single community interested in preserving and expanding their class rights.

Analisis Terhadap Pandangan Pluralisme dan Eksklusivisme di Kalangan Gereja-Gereja di Papua pada Masa Kini

This article discusses the current views of pluralism and exclusivism among churches in Papua, focusing on how these concepts are understood and applied in the diverse social, cultural and religious context of Papua. Pluralism recognizes religious diversity and opens space for interfaith dialogue and cooperation, while exclusivism emphasizes that salvation can only be achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. In the context of Papua, which consists of various tribes, customary traditions, and religions, churches face challenges in determining attitudes towards pluralism and exclusivism, which have an impact on interfaith relations and social dynamics in the region. The purpose of this study is to analyze how pluralism and exclusivism affect the role of churches in Papua in dealing with religious and cultural diversity. It also aims to reveal the different views among the more pluralist and exclusivist churches and how these views shape their strategies in building relationships with other communities in Papua.

Multikultural dan Pendikan Islam

Multiculturalism is the acknowledgment and admiration of the variety of cultures present in a society. Islamic education that embraces multiculturalism imparts Islamic principles while also fostering respect and admiration for diverse cultures and religions. Multiculturalism is crucial for fostering cohesion and concord among religious groupings. The primary objective of multicultural education in Islam is to establish an all-encompassing educational setting where each student is esteemed and embraced, irrespective of their religion or cultural heritage. The multicultural method in Islamic education integrates global concepts, such as tolerance, justice, and peace, into the curriculum. This is accomplished by comprehending and valuing disparities through explicit teaching, collective deliberations, and engaging exercises. Furthermore, Islamic intercultural education places significant emphasis on the value of interfaith discourse as a means to enhance interfaith relations and eradicate preconceptions and prejudices. The implementation of multicultural education within the context of Islam encounters numerous obstacles. One of the criticisms comes from individuals who contend that education should be limited to a select group and uniform in nature. Proper implementation and dedication from all stakeholders can significantly contribute to the development of a more inclusive and harmonious society through multicultural Islamic education. Hence, implementing multicultural education in Islam is a prudent approach to foster cultural comprehension and foster tranquilly and concord in an ever more heterogeneous community.

Nature and causes of conflict among communities bordering in Borabu-Sotik Border Kenya

This study sought to analyse the nature and causes of conflict among communities bordering in Borabu-Sotik border Kenya. Cross-border conflicts have long existed worldwide, with recent ethnic and communal tensions affecting Africa, including Kenya. This study utilised descriptive statistics and a qualitative research design, focusing on churches at the Borabu-Sotik border, such as SDA, PAG, and Catholic, with a target population of 7,738 respondents. In the context of interfaith relations at Borabu and Sotik, churches play a significant role in conflict resolution through mediation and negotiations. Religious leaders actively mediate disputes and promote compromises between conflicting parties. Additionally, the church contributes to nation building by advocating for peace and supporting youth often involved in conflicts. The church collaborates with the government and other agencies to address social issues like land rights and ethnic discrimination, thus maintaining stability and security. The study used purposive and simple random sampling to select a sample size of 392 respondents, comprising 35 church leaders and 357 church members. Proportionate sampling methods were employed to categorize the sample according to churches. Stratified random sampling was usedto select the respondents, who were then given questionnaires. Data collection tools included interview schedules for church leaders, questionnaires for church members, focus group discussions, and a checklist. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, means, and standard deviations were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Sociological monitoring of interethnic and interfaith relations in the cities of the south of the Tyumen region

Sociological monitoring of interethnic and interfaith relations in the cities of the south of the Tyumen region

Konsep Islam Wasathiyah Perspektif KH. Hasyim Muzadi (Telaah Surah al-Baqarah Ayat 143)

The number of extreme cases that occur in Indonesia is a focus for the author. It is a great achievement when Indonesia is able to survive in the midst of various differences it has, both race, religion, customs, foreign cultures and so on. However, it cannot be denied that sometimes conflicts in Indonesian society often occur both horizontally and vertically. This study, wants to try to explore the elements contained in the Qur'an, related to wasathiya Islam in the perspective of an Indonesian figure KH. Hasyim Muzadi who has a very strong influence in the establishment of interfaith relations and is one of the figures who often acts as a mediator in all matters relating to religion and the state. This research can be a driving force to form Muslims who are in the middle, not extreme right or extreme left and willing to accept various differences as long as they are in the level of khilafiyah. This research uses qualitative library research methods and content analysis. The formulation of the problems in this study are 1). what is the meaning of wasathiyah Islam. 2). How95Konsep Islam Wasathiyah Perspektif KH.Hasyim Muzadi…Muhamnad Al Fikri & Qathrunnadadoes KH. Hasyim Muzadi think about religious moderation (wasathiyah Islam). 3). How is the interpretation of Al-Qur'an surah al-Baqarah verse 143 about wasathiyah Islam?Primary sources in this study are books related to the thoughts of KH. Hasyim Muzadi including true Islam, Islam from the heart and various literature on wasathiyah Islam. The results of this research are (1) The results of the study prove that in the Qur'an wasathiyah Islam is explained in Q.s.al-Baqarah: 143. Interpreters explain that wasathiyah Islam is interpreted as a middle society, the chosen people, and the best people. The middle attitude is realized through several things, such as the middle in addressing the world and the hereafter, humans who reflect justice, and are able to be role models for others. (2) According to KH. Hasyim Muzadi, Allah has made Muslims the chosen people among other people. People who are able to apply 3 forms of justice, namely justice of equity, justice of equality and justice of balance (3) Indonesia's multiculturalism is not only an advantage, but also a challenge for Indonesian society. Answering these challenges, KH. A Hasyim Muzadi explained that the element of Wasathiyah Islam is a requirement to face the challenges faced by the Indonesian people.

The role of Muslim organizations in North Ossetia in the development of interfaith relations in the republic in the early 1990s and late 2010s.

This article is devoted to the study of the specific features of the participation of North Ossetian Islamic spiritual organizations in the development of interreligious relations in the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania in the late twentieth and the first decades of the 21st centuries and their role in the development of the spiritual sphere of the republic’s public life and the stabilization of the political situation in this territorial subject of the Russian Federation. This study examines the features of the peacekeeping activities of the Muslim community of North Ossetia in the republic and in the North Caucasus as a whole. This article examines the role of the chairman of the Spiritual Board of Muslims of North Ossetia A.H. Evteev, H.M. Tavkazakhov and H.H. Gatsalov in the formation and the development of interfaith dialogue in the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania.

The Intricate Tapestry of Toraja Spirituality: An Exploration of Animism, Ancestor Veneration, and Symbolic Rituals

This study aims to explore the complex spiritual belief system and ritual practices of the Toraja people through a qualitative research design. Aligned with the study's objective of unraveling the multifaceted layers of ritual and understanding the connections between tradition and modernity, an ethnographic approach is employed. Researchers immerse themselves in the Toraja community to gain a deep understanding of cultural practices, beliefs, and values. This immersive experience involves participant observation and engagement with community members. In-depth interviews with key informants, such as elders or individuals knowledgeable about the ma’nene’ or corpse preservation tradition, provide insights into cultural nuances, symbolism, and changes over time. Audio-visual documentation, including recording rituals, interviews, and cultural events, enriches the study's depth and authenticity. Thematic analysis identifies and analyzes themes related to the ma’nene’ tradition, such as cultural preservation and the role of ritual in shaping collective identity. The discourse surrounding the ma’nene’ tradition reflects a complex spiritual belief system and ritual practices of the Toraja people, blending elements of animism, ancestor veneration, and a deep connection to the natural landscape. Specific items in offerings and their ritualistic consumption highlight the importance of symbolic actions in religious ceremonies. These findings extend beyond academic curiosity, impacting cultural appreciation, academic research, interfaith relations, and cultural heritage preservation positively. Through this comprehensive exploration, the study contributes to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Toraja spirituality and culture.

Religious Cooperation in Plural Ghana: Challenges and Ways for Improvement

There is a global call for religious cooperation and tolerance, and it is a non-negotiable necessity for Ghana, through a collective responsibility. This study thus investigated the perspectives of Ghanaians on the religious situation in Ghana. It looked at whether or not Ghana is a “one religion” State, by exploring the existence of several religions in Ghana. The global advocacy for religious cooperation motivated this study to explore some challenges hindering religious cooperation in Ghana, and ways for improvement. Using a mixed methodology of quantitative and qualitative designs, the study sampled 225 individuals ethically from the Faculty of Social Sciences in KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana. Primary data was obtained through questionnaires and interviews. The findings revealed that Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion are the three main religions amongst others in Ghana. A majority of 179 respondents indicated that Ghana has plural religions and is not a “one religion” State, hence, a non-negotiable advocacy for religious cooperation. The majority of these advocates are youth within the age brackets of 15-25 years, followed by adults within 36-45 years. Despite challenges hindering religious cooperation in Ghana such as religious, social, cultural and political barriers, the practice of respect, tolerance and value toward one another and interfaith relations, could guarantee some improvement. Therefore, whether Christians, Muslims, Traditionalists or the Other, one has to be and behave religiously inclusive, tolerant, and humble toward the other. Whether in speech or actions, one should give a listening ear to the other. This paper is relevant for peace and interfaith studies. Keywords: Plural Ghana; Religious Cooperation; the Other; Religious Inclusivism; Tolerance

The Thudong Bhikkhu Pilgrimage

Thousands of kilometres travelled by 32 thudong monks from Thailand to Indonesia was not only a spiritual moment for the participants but also a historical event in Indonesian interfaith relations. Given the abundance of enthusiasm, this article aims to explain the purity of interfaith harmony created by local communities and Thai monks, who also contributed to promoting interfaith dialogue discourse among grassroots communities. By delving into the internet, a netnography approach is used to get a deeper and broader understanding of the events by comparing one digital document with another. In the interfaith encounters along the pilgrimage highway, both parties exhibited reciprocal behaviours of shared feelings and kindness that encouraged them to complete the ritual mission together. They were able to dismantle the religious barriers that frequently impede harmonious interfaith relations as a result of warm acceptance, hospitable interactions, and engaging dialogue onsite and via social media.

Духовна просвіта та імперські наративи: українська минувшина у дзеркалі єпархіальних журналів другої половини ХІХ ст.

The purpose of the article is to analyze the role of Orthodox spiritual journals of the second half of the 19th century in the spread of imperial narratives about the history of Ukraine. The research is aimed at determining the mutual influence of the publications of ecclesiastical diocesan publications with the state ideology, as well as analyzing the connection of these publications with the modern propaganda of the Kremlin and the Russian Orthodox Church against Ukraine. The methodological principles. Based on the analysis of historical literature and the source base, the article’s author used the methods of historical analysis and synthesis to examine the imperial narratives in the Orthodox spiritual journals of the period under study. The research also uses the comparative method and the method of systematic analysis to study the topics of publications of magazines of individual dioceses, as well as to determine the influence of the views of pre-revolutionary Orthodox publicists on the modern narratives of the Russian Orthodox Church regarding Ukraine. The scientific novelty of this topic is based on an attempt to analyze the variability of the thematic spectrum of historical publications issued in various diocesan journals and on revealing views on interfaith relations in the historical retrospective of Orthodox authors and determining the influence of these views on the beliefs of the hierarchs of the modern Russian Orthodox Church. Conclusions. The authors analyzed the topics of historical publications issued in the unofficial part of diocesan journals in the territory of the Russian Ukraine and the Cholm-Warsaw diocese. Interrelationships and regional differences of imperial narratives in Orthodox diocesan journals were traced. The role of diocesan information in relaying these narratives, as well as their reflection in modern Kremlin propaganda against Ukraine, is highlighted. It is asserted that the diocesan Orthodox publishing houses of the second half of the 19th century played an important role in forming the Russian imperial vision of the past of Ukrainian lands. The study revealed their role in the spread of numerous regional variants of imperial propaganda. The indirect influence of these narratives on Ukrainian national historiography is noted, and the need to distance themselves from them for a better study of the past and opposition to Russian propaganda is specified.

The Impact of Religious Diversity on Socio-Ethical Behaviour: Case Study of the Kotei Community in Ghana

The influence of religious diversity on the socio-ethical behaviour of the Ghanaian society is the subject of the research. The study aims at exploring how Ghana’s religious variety has impacted the socio-ethical behaviour of the people in Ghana with a particular reference to the people in the Kotei community in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The study highlights the fact that the Ghanaian people’s way of life is defined and informed by their respect and tolerance of the religious other. Thus, recognition and tolerance for different religions is be found in nearly every area of the people’s lives. There are three main religious groups situated in the Kotei Community: African Indigenous adherents, Muslims and Christians. These religious groups are pluralistic with several divisions and denominations. This study therefore explores how the prevalence of several religions have affected the people’s way of life. It also discusses how religious tolerance and cooperation among the various religious groups in the area has gotten positive and negative effects on the people. The study does so using primary data derived from fieldwork in the said community and secondary data from the intern, published and unpublished literature in the form of books, newspapers and journal articles. The researchers adopted the qualitative method of research for the study. It is the expectation of the researchers that, after reading this material, readers will get to have an overview of the nature of religious diversity evidenced in Ghana and its effects on the socio-ethical behaviour of Ghanaians. The study will serve as precedence for future research on the nature of Interfaith relations and encounters in Africa especially in Ghana and the resourceful means of ensuring interreligious peace and harmonization in Ghana.

ISLAMIC TOLERANCE: CONCEPTUALITY, CONTEXTUALITY, PRACTICE

The article examines the phenomenon of Islamic tolerance in the context of the value-based cultural paradigm of Islam. Based on sociological studies of the Arab Barometer of Public Opinion of Muslims living in the countries of the Islamic world, the interpretation of tolerance as a key value is given. The authors provide respondents' opinions on problematic issues related to Islamic identity and gender issues. The authors believe that Islamic tolerance is a multifaceted phenomenon that includes spirituality, moral imperatives, and a philosophy of mutual understanding. The article reveals the importance of tolerance for developing dialogue in interfaith relations. The Arab Barometer is a marker of the level of Islamic tolerance. The significance of Islamic tolerance lies in its formation of ideological and tolerant attitudes.

Perspectives of Interfaith Figures on Religious Moderation in an "Intolerant City": A Study in Padang

This study aims to examine the perspectives of interfaith leaders in Padang City on religious moderation. This study uses a naturalistic qualitative approach, with data collection techniques of in-depth interviews with Muslim, Catholic, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist and Confucian religious leaders. This study focuses on four pillars or indicators of religious moderation, namely commitment to nation and state, tolerance, non-violence, and accommodation to local culture. The results found that interfaith leaders in Padang City strongly support the concept of religious moderation because religious moderation is believed to be relevant to the teachings of each religion, such as the common ideals of building the life of the nation and state for mutual progress, living in harmony amid differences, rejecting acts of violence in the name of religion, and maintaining and respecting local culture. This study also found that interfaith leaders as religious elites spread the values of religious moderation to each of their followers. The interfaith leaders also agreed that Padang City is conducive in terms of interfaith relations, even though the city is ranked low in the tolerance index by a number of research institutions

Стереотипы межконфессиональных взаимодействий сибиряков

The successful term “stereotype” was substantiated by the journalist W. Lippman and became firmly established in scientific use. Researchers have studied the processes of stereotypes functioning. This is an important part ofthe collective consciousness, protecting a person from unfamiliar information. Stereotypes help save time and life resources for processing new information. But the negative side of stereotypes lies in the creation of mental templates for the perception of reality. It is easier for a group to simplify information than to waste time understanding the essence of another’s otherness. Information that contradicts stereotypical patterns is ignored, simplified, and distorted in terms of content. “We-group” begins to aggressively defend the meanings of its stereotypes from an alternative opinion. The opponent can be subjected to harassment and physical destruction. The structure of stereotypes and scenarios of stereotyping are considered by us from the standpoint of structuralism. “We-group” is socially differentiated. For extras and dominant members of the group, the rules of the social game are written. The meaning of the stereotype can turn into a tool for managing citizens, into a weapon against members of the “they-group”. The spontaneous part of the process of stereotyping lies in the routine existence of stereotypes, with the help of which people explain the complex phenomena of life. It is a routine practice of inventing and reinforcing language clichés. The manageable part of stereotyping is the use of these clichés for political gain. “We-group” is always in a state of stereotypical attitude. The group can choose a stereotyping scenario – a scenario of tolerant neighborhood or a scenario of negative solidarity. The first determines the path of development of a tolerant attitude towards non-Christians, the search for new knowledge about the culture of “outsiders”, the development of practices of new socio-cultural experience. The second is the way of intensifying intercultural and interfaith tension, leading to armed conflicts. The reason for interfaith conflicts is the use of creeds for personal gain. At the everyday level, conflicts arise due to cultural incompetence, the simplification of knowledge about the culture of “strangers”. In Siberia, despite the existence of stereotypes, interfaith relations are peaceful. This is emphasized by the heroes of in-depth interviews representing different confessions. Their perception of non-Christian neighbors is based on an understanding of personal merit, and not on a stereotyped understanding. Spiritual leaders confirm the idea of intercultural rapprochement of Siberians as members of a multi-confessional community. Tolerance is a social practice of neighborhood that develops the spiritual sphere of community life.

The State of The Topiaj During 14th Century

Purpose: The paper provides historical context on the Topias family's role in Naples' political and religious landscape, detailing their break from Byzantium, alliances with Anjouans, and power dynamics. Methods: The paper discusses the Topias family's historical context, indicating that historical scholars used a combination of archival research, primary source analysis, comparative analysis, contextualization, and narrative storytelling to understand their interactions, relationships, and historical context. These methods were likely used to gather and analyze information about the family's history. Results and Conclusion: The paper provides a narrative account of the Topias family's historical significance, their break from Byzantium, and their role as vassals to the king of Naples. It highlights their resilience and adaptability in medieval European politics, highlighting the complex dynamics of political and religious spheres. Research implications: The paper provides a rich historical account of the Topias family, highlighting their political strategies, interfaith relations, vassalage, Anjouan influence in the Balkans, and the influence of clergy in politics. It also highlights the importance of examining the historical narrative and its potential to contribute to ongoing scholarly discussions on medieval European history, politics, and culture. Originality/value: The paper provides valuable insights into medieval Balkan politics, interfaith relations, and vassalage dynamics in medieval Europe. It focuses on lesser-known actors like the Topias family, their religious conversion, Angevin influence in the Balkans, and the complexities of feudal relationships. The narrative also highlights the intersection of clerical and political power, enhancing our understanding of medieval governance and interfaith relations.

Мусульмане Мордовии: историко-социологический портрет

In recent years, the ethnoconfessional diversity of Russia, the traditional lifestyle of its indigenous peoples are threatened with destruction. In this regard, confessional issues are becoming particularly relevant. The article is based on the results of field research conducted by employees of the State public institution of the Republic of Moldova “Scientific Center for Socio-Economic Monitoring” in 2016–2023. The author examines the historical and sociological profile of Mordovian Muslims and identifies the following features: adherence to traditional value orientations and social attitudes, a low level of confessional involvement, the dominance of national and local identity in comparison with ethnic and religious identity, low conflict potential in the field of interfaith relations. Despite the pressure on their everyday life practices, traditional rituals and religious attitudes, the Muslims of Mordovia retain their ethnic and religious identity.

Harmoni dan Toleransi: Menyelami Hubungan antar Agama dalam Perspektif Pandangan Dunia Islam

This article discusses the importance of harmony and tolerance in establishing interfaith relations, especially in the context of the Islamic worldview. The author explores key concepts in Islam that encourage harmony between religious believers, as well as delving into aspects that promote understanding and respect for differences in beliefs. The article also highlights the history and practices that support interfaith harmony in Islamic societies. In conclusion, harmony and tolerance are considered central values in Islam, and this article invites readers to explore them more deeply from the perspective of the Islamic worldview.

Legal Regulation of Religious Relations as a Factor in the Reintegration of the Crimean Peninsula into Russia

The entry in March 2014 of the Crimean Peninsula into Russia has significantly changed the lives of the population of this territory, and also influenced international relations with the participation of the Russian Federation. However, so far the processes related to the complete transition of the Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol into the domestic legal field have not been completed. In some sectors of the economy, the deadlines for the completion of such “transitional” measures are constantly being extended. At the same time, the religious sphere did not require significant changes. The changes that began in Ukraine after 2014, scandals and harassment against religious organizations, unthinkable in Russia, only strengthen believers in the correctness of their choice. The significance of this study is actualized by the prospect of passing through similar stages of adaptation of regulatory regulation and the practice of its application in the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions. The purpose of the work is to compare the normative legal regulation of religious relations in Russia and Ukraine, as well as in the Republic of Crimea and the federal city of Sevastopol in order to formulate a conclusion about the degree of completion of the reintegration of the Crimean Peninsula into Russia. Research objectives: to study the Ukrainian legal regulation of these public relations in order to identify deviations unacceptable by the population of the territory in question; to search for similar norms in Russian legislation; to identify positive foreign experience; to determine the degree of activity of regional authorities in terms of support for confessional and interfaith relations. The main method of research, in addition to general philosophical and general scientific ones, was comparative law. The method of modeling and expert assessments was also used in the formulation of the main author's conclusions. According to the results of the study, it is stated that the reintegration of the Crimean Peninsula into Russia in terms of the legal regulation of religious relations has not begun, but rather continues, strengthened by measures taken by the law-making bodies of the neighboring state.

The Position of Local Religions in Interfaith Relations as a Form of Religious Moderation in Indonesia

The Constitutional Court granted the petition for judicial review of the regulation to empty the religion column for indigenous faiths in family cards and electronic ID cards on November 7, 2017. This research focuses on the role of local religions in interfaith relations as a manifestation of religious moderation in Indonesia. Using qualitative data through literature study, this research explores the contribution of local religions in creating moderation, especially through moderation values that accommodate local wisdom. Local religions and moderation in religion can coexist, creating harmony in interfaith relations. This study highlights that ancestral and local religions have continued relevance in the face of changing times, making them important contributors to religious moderation and interfaith relations in Indonesia. By considering the Pancasila perspective of local religions, this study reveals how national values and history shape religious moderation. Meanwhile, local religions provide a foundation for building a harmonious society by raising awareness of relationships with nature and the environment. The findings suggest that history, nationality and the preservation of natural harmony by local religions simultaneously contribute to religious moderation in the context of local religions in Indonesia.