Religious Leaders Research Articles

Upaya Kantor Urusan Agama Dalam Meminimalisir Pernikahan Dini

This research examines the implementation of early marriages in North Padangsidimpuan District, Padangsidimpuan City and the efforts of the religious affairs office in minimizing early marriages in the District. The research method used is field research with a qualitative approach. The primary data sources in this research are the Head of the North Padangsidimpuan District Office of Religious Affairs, religious leaders and people who enter into early marriages. While secondary data was collected through several references such as books, laws and journals that were considered relevant to this research. Data collection techniques with interviews and documentation with qualitative descriptive data analysis techniques. Based on the research results obtained, namely to carry out early marriages in North Padangsidimpuan District, there are procedures to be followed so that the marriage is legal in the eyes of religion and in the eyes of the law. Such as submitting a marriage dispensation to the Padang Sidempuan Religious Court, obtaining a marriage license, providing a copy of the dispensation decision to the religious affairs office, notification of the will to marry, examination of the will for marriage, announcement of the will for marriage, and implementation of the marriage contract. Then the KUA's efforts to prevent early marriage in Padang sidempuan Utara District are checking the administrative completeness of the two prospective brides, conducting outreach to the community, youth and parents and socializing law number 16 of 2019. It is proven by the KUA's efforts that the number Underage marriages are decreasing every year. Namely, from 2020 to 2022 there will be 16 underage marriages, with details of 5 underage men and 11 women. Then in 2020 there will be 11 people, in 2021 there will be 4 people and in 2022 there will be 1 person.

The Role of Religious and Traditional Leaders in Maintaining Harmony Among Religious Communities: Strategy for Implementing the Religious Moderation Concept in Indonesia

The Role of Religious and Traditional Leaders in Maintaining Harmony Among Religious Communities: Strategy for Implementing the Religious Moderation Concept in Indonesia

Culture of Interfaith Tolerance in Multicultural Communities In Mbawa Village, Donggo District, Bima Regency

The people of Mbawa Village, Donggo Subdistrict, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, consist of various monotheist religions, such as Islam, Catholicism and Protestantism. With a pluralistic background, the people of Mbawa Village are able to maintain a culture of tolerance that has been passed down by their ancestors. This research aims to explore and analyse the culture of interfaith tolerance in Mbawa Village, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. Mbawa Village is an example of a multicultural society inhabited by various religious groups that live side by side in harmony. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation studies. The results show that the culture of interfaith tolerance in Mbawa Village is reflected in various aspects of community life, such as religious rituals, customs, and daily interactions. Factors that support interfaith tolerance include the existence of social norms that respect diversity, positive interfaith interactions, and the role of religious leaders and community leaders in promoting peace and harmony. In addition, awareness of the importance of inter-religious harmony and a deep understanding of the teachings of each religion also strengthen the culture of tolerance in Mbawa Village. This research makes an important contribution to understanding the cultural dynamics of interfaith tolerance in multicultural societies, particularly in the West Nusa Tenggara region. The implications of these findings can serve as a reference for policy makers and related parties to develop more effective strategies in promoting peace and inter-religious harmony in Indonesia.

Using Vignettes to Gain Insights Into Social Norms Related to Voluntary Family Planning and Gender-Based Violence in South Sudan.

Social norms are the shared expectations about behaviors that are held within collective groups. These differ from attitudes and beliefs, which are individually held. In South Sudan, social norms can affect the use of voluntary family planning and reproductive health (FP/RH); some of these norms even present risks for women seeking FP/RH care and their FP/RH providers. This cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted in 5 counties in South Sudan used vignettes as a qualitative method to explore social norms related to FP/RH and decisions related to contraceptive use and gender-based violence. Participants were asked to respond to vignettes about a fictional couple during various life stages of care-seeking. Vignettes allow respondents to share their opinions and feelings without directly speaking about their own experiences. Respondents included community members, FP/RH providers, and key influencers (e.g., religious leaders, traditional leaders, elders). The study identified restrictive social norms related to FP/RH, including entrenched, dominant gender roles (i.e., requiring male consent to use contraceptives) and risk for the woman and her provider if she accesses FP/RH services. Of note, supportive social norms are gaining acceptance regarding women's voice and agency; it was found that some women can negotiate their reproductive choice with their partners and participate in planning their families, which has not always been a widely accepted norm. The use of vignettes can lead to a better understanding of the challenges and provide insights on effective implementation approaches. It is essential for programs working to promote the use of FP/RH services in South Sudan to consider the challenges presented by social norms. Findings from this study were shared with stakeholders and communities to codesign interventions aimed at increasing the use of FP/RH services. Additionally, the dialogue stimulated by this study should lead to an organic transformation toward supportive social norms through collective agency.

Exploring the drivers of pro-environmental behavioral intentions in an emerging nation

PurposeDrawing on the theory of planned behavior and value-belief norms theory, this study aims to explore the causes of pro-environmental behavioral intentions in the context of Sri Lanka.Design/methodology/approachData were garnered from 503 subjects with the aid of self-reported questionnaires. The formulated hypotheses were examined using a variance-based statistical approach (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe findings of the study revealed that personal values, particularly altruistic and biosphere values, significantly strengthen the psychological drivers of pro-environmental behavioral intentions. The study further found that religiosity enhances the association between personal norms and pro-environmental behavioral intentions and the place attachment augments the relationship between attitude and pro-environmental behavioral intentions.Practical implicationsThis study suggests that instilling altruistic and biosphere values in individuals can boost pro-environmental behavioral intentions. Campaigns and educational programs could focus on instilling these values to foster responsibility and empathy. Recognizing the influence of religiosity on pro-environmental behaviors and attitudes, this study suggests collaborative efforts between organizations and religious institutions. Religious leaders can integrate environmental stewardship into teachings, emphasizing ethical responsibilities.Originality/valueThe study pushes back the frontiers of environmental consciousness literature by highlighting the importance of personal values, psychological factors and contextual variables such as religiosity and place attachment in fostering pro-environmental behavior within the specific context of an emerging country – Sri Lanka.

Tradisi Ubeng Dusun Masyarakat Jawa di Dusun Slatri Kecamatan Kasembon Kabupaten Malang

Slatri Hamlet is a place where the community is all Muslim, because it is a place that is based on the Islamic religion, it cannot be denied that the activities carried out are based on religious activities that contain elements and even the reading of verses from the holy Koran. Ubeng dusun is the core procession in this tradition where residents who take part in ubeng are not allowed to speak at all because they have to read the recommended reading. Previously, Slatri hamlet was a place full of swamps. Because the meaning of the name Slatri itself is rowo sing garing (dry swamp). However, it is not known for certain what the relationship is between the ubeng dusun tradition and the origins of the slatri hamlet which originates from the swamp. However, because of the tradition that has existed for a long time and every year it is carried out precisely in the month of Suro. So until now this tradition has always been carried out because it was ordered by elders and predecessors. This research aims to find out the procession and symbolic meaning of the ubeng village procession carried out by the people of Slatri hamlet. Meanwhile, research data was obtained from interviews with current religious leaders, village heads, and several residents who knew about the ubeng village tradition. So that from the research results obtained, researchers can analyze using descriptive qualitative research methods.

Meningkatkan Kerukunan Warga NU di Parengan Dengan Konsep Tasamuh Ahlussunnah Wal Jama’ah An-Nahdliyah

Tasamuh is an important attitude to apply in social life because it can minimize conflict and thus create a harmonious society. The aim of this research is to describe the phenomenon of implementing the concept of Tasamuh Ahlussunnah Wal Jama'ah An-Nahdliyah in increasing harmony in the NU community in Parengan Village and to describe the supporting and inhibiting factors in its implementation. This research uses a qualitative approach and is included in the type of field research. Data collection was carried out using observation, interviews, and documentation methods. The results of this research show that: 1) The implementation of the Tasamuh concept in Parengan Village is that the community has carried out its obligations and has accepted its rights well, accepts all existing differences, understands each other, gives freedom to others, needs to increase equality, namely treating people others equally without discrimination, and need to increase cooperation. 2) Supporting factors in implementing the values ​​of Tasamuh Aswaja An-Nahdliyah in Parengan Village are that religious leaders carry out their roles well, family and kinship relationships in the community are well established, and good cooperation in the community. Meanwhile, the inhibiting factor is that the village government has not carried out its role optimally, especially in the field of cooperation.

Bhikhu Parekh's Thought on Multiculturalism

Bhikhu Parekh's conceptualization of multiculturalism offers a significant contribution to the theoretical and practical debates surrounding multiculturalism in highly diverse urban societies. In the realm of theory, Parekh's notions of multiculturalism provide an alternative discourse to the prevailing emphasis on individual and minority rights within liberal frameworks. Conceptually, Parekh categorizes cultural diversity in modern/urban societies into three forms: 1) subcultural diversity; 2) perspectival diversity; 3) communal diversity. Furthermore, he divides multiculturalism into several models, including isolationist multiculturalism, accommodative multiculturalism, autonomous multiculturalism, interactive multiculturalism, and cosmopolitan multiculturalism. This philosophical perspective on multiculturalism holds relevance in the context of managing ethnic and religious diversity in Indonesia. It underscores the emergence of awareness and 'sensitivity' to differences, starting with political and religious leaders becoming more attuned to the diversity of distinctions.

Ethical Resolution of Customary Land Disputes Through Harmonizing Tradition and Law

This research examines the customary land disputes between the Tiwu Kondo sub-district government and the Ndoko tribe in East Manggarai, NTT Province. It aims to identify the resolution efforts involving mediation and deliberation with traditional and religious leaders, emphasizing ethical values, local customs, and applicable laws. Using a juridical-empirical approach, data were collected through literature studies, observations, and interviews. Findings reveal that integrating traditional customs and modern legal frameworks, guided by UUPA No.5/1960 and PERDA Manggarai No.1/2018, can effectively resolve disputes, offering a model for fair and sustainable outcomes. Highlights: Integrating Traditions and Laws: Combining customs with modern legal frameworks. Mediation and Deliberation: Involving traditional and religious leaders. Fair and Sustainable Outcomes: Emphasizing ethical values and local norms. Keywords: Land disputes, Customary land, Mediation, Traditional customs, Legal frameworks

ASSESSING THE NATURE OF PATRONAGE FOR TRADITIONAL MATERNAL HEALTH CARE SERVICES IN SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA

<p><strong>Background:</strong> The study assessed the nature of patronage for traditional maternal health care services in Southwestern Nigeria. These were in view of providing information on the nature of patronage of traditional maternal health care services (TMHCs) in Nigeria, thus assisting in meeting the 2030 target of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). <strong>Methods:</strong> The study adopted a descriptive research design method approach. The study population was comprised of all pregnant women and nursing mothers attending TMHCs in Southwestern. The sample size consisted of 1020 pregnant women and nursing mothers. A self-designed questionnaire was used to gather information from the respondents. Data collected were analysed using frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation and ANOVA. <strong>Results:</strong> It showed that respondents patronized centre owned by a tradition and culture 351(41.1%), respondents attended their preferred TMHCs on Wednesdays (738), and respondents were introduced to using TMHCs by their in-laws, religious leaders and friends, respectively. However, a large number of the respondents agreed that they use TMHCs because of the passionate care shown towards them (28.9%), spiritual reasons (26.6%), belief in the efficacy of service (30.2%), accessibility (29.7%) and offer of good and quality service (31.2%). Also, the study shows that there is a significant influence of the husband's age (df=3,870, F=5.909, p<0.05), husband's income (df=4,869, F=3.747, p<0.05) and husband's education level (df=3,870, F=64.70, p<0.05) on the reasons for patronizing TMHCs in the study area. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The study concluded that nature patronage is a contributing factor to the high usage of TMHCs, which encourages maternal mortality in Nigeria.</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0528/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

The Integration of Local Wisdom with Learning Innovations in the ‘Buddhism’ Course for Lower Secondary School Students in Thailand’s Educational Opportunity Expansion Schools

This research aims to investigate the local wisdom within communities served by educational opportunity expansion schools in Thailand. Specifically, it seeks to identify local wisdom that can be integrated into the ‘Buddhism’ course for lower secondary school students. The study also synthesizes the integration of this local wisdom with learning management and develops an innovative learning model named ‘SAAOL’. Additionally, student satisfaction with this learning approach is evaluated. The study involved religious leaders, local philosophers, community leaders, educational administrators, teachers, and 200 students selected through purposive sampling. Research tools included in-depth interviews, a learning management manual, and a satisfaction assessment form. The results reveal four local wisdoms, namely ‘Sim’, ‘Khalum’, ‘Pha-Wed Cloth’, and ‘Khun Mak Beng,’ which can be integrated into the ‘Buddhism’ course through the ‘SAAOL learning model.’ Student satisfaction with this approach was notably high.

Urgensi Bimbingan Penyuluhan Islam (BPI) Dalam Membentuk Karakter Remaja di Lingkungan Tembelok Kelurahan Mandalika Kecamatan Sandubaya Kota Mataram

This research aims to determine the urgency of Islamic counseling guidance in shaping the character of teenagers and to find out the supporting and inhibiting factors for implementing the urgency of Islamic counseling guidance in shaping the character of teenagers in the Tembelok Neighborhood, Mandalika Village, Sandubaya District, Mataram City. This research uses a qualitative approach. This approach is used so that the author can gain a broad and in-depth understanding of the urgency of BPI in shaping the character of teenagers in the Tembelok Neighborhood, Mandalika Village, Sandubaya District, Mataram City. The research results show that Islamic Counseling Guidance (BPI) is very important. First, BPI helps direct teenagers to the path of goodness with strong supervision from parents and religious figures. Second, BPI instills religious values ​​from an early age to direct youth's piety and faith. Third, BPI helps develop an attitude of awareness in teenagers with love, patience and coaching. Meanwhile, supporting and inhibiting factors in shaping adolescent character include the existence of Islamic Counselors and the active role of religious and community leaders as supporting factors, while environmental complexity, difficulty in controlling adolescent self-control, character formation from an early age or during puberty, negative environmental impacts, and lack of affection. from parents as an inhibiting factor.

Pancasila Village as a Role Model of Local Wisdom-Based Religious Moderation in Lamongan Regency

Balun Village in Turi sub-district, Lamongan Regency, known as a Pancasila Village, is one example of religious abstinence based on local wisdom. The aims of study are to:(1) identify the implementation of Pancasila Village as a demonstrate for devout control, (2) get it the points of view and parts of devout and community pioneers related to Pancasila Village, and (3) create the village as a demonstrate for devout control. This study was conducted in Baran Village employing a subjective approach. Information collection was carried out through in-depth interviews, documentation, and perception with key witnesses, and youth pioneers. The discoveries demonstrate that: 1) The implementation of Pancasila Village in Lamongan has succeeded through mutual tolerance and not the imposition of religious beliefs. 2) Religious and community leaders in Baran Village effectively communicate and prioritize common interface. 3) An interesting finding is the existence of a multi-religious grave digging team in the village.

The Dynamics of Early Marriage in Terms of Islamic Family Psychology (Case Study in Sub-District of Bolo, Bima Regency)

Marriage life will always experience changes and ups and downs. Reviewing early marriage from the perspective of Islamic family psychology provides important insights into the dynamics which occur. It helps identify challenges and opportunities to improve the welfare and success of marriage. The objectives of this research were to understand and analyse the dynamics of early marriage in terms of Islamic family psychology and to understand and analyse the efforts of early marriage actors in dealing with family problems. This thesis used qualitative research based on field research; it used primary data sources obtained from the perpetrators of early marriage, parents, officials at the Religious Affairs Office (KUA) and religious leaders in the sub-district of Bolo, Bima Regency and secondary data sources. The data were collected by doing observation, interview, and documentation. The results of this research showed that 1) The dynamics of early marriage in terms of Islamic Family Psychology that every couple would experience challenges and changes over time, the factors which influenced failure in dealing with the dynamics of early marriage were the couple's psychological factors, lack of understanding and communication, not understanding the roles and responsibilities, lack of family support, not being able to adjust in marriage. 2) The efforts of early marriage actors in dealing with family problems were a) there were problems, b) there was no communication to solve, and c) they silenced and ignored each other. While other couples tried to understand each other, communicated and the support of direction from parents.

Membangun Harmonisasi di Tengah MasyarakatMajemuk(Studi Kasus Toleransi Umat Islam dengan Budha di Kudus)

Indonesian society consists of various tribes, languages, religions, and cultures. Likewise, what happened in Kutuk Village, they lived side by side in the midst of religious differences. The purpose of this study will see how the Kutuk community is diverse but always harmonious and respectful of each other. This study used a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation and interviews with religious and community leaders from different religions. The result of this study is to build harmony between communities of the two religions through social activities carried out together. In addition, they also obtained harmony from interfaith marriages that occurred in Kutuk Village.

Religion and Coronavirus Response in Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract In April 2020 there was an inordinate spike in COVID-19 related deaths in Kano State, northern Nigeria, due to a lack of adherence to the national public health emergency recommendations. This article aims to explain why this public health fiasco occurred. Utilizing secondary academic literature and news reports from local media, the article interrogates the manifestation of Islam in northern Nigeria and the resulting undermining of the country’s coronavirus mitigation response. The evidence from Kano State indicates that religious authorities failed to heed the suspension of congregational prayers as the relevant health agencies advised, due to a belief in the exceptionality of northern Nigeria as a theocratic substate in a secular federation. The article therefore highlights the challenges of communicating public health risk in a context where the authority of religious leaders, real or imagined, undercuts the power of state institutions.

Religious Conflict in Central African Republic

One of the challenges facing the world today is the issue of religious conflict. The consequences of the above are unimaginable for a land-locked country like Central African Republic (CAR). Conflicts there have led to the destruction of lives and properties in the last decades of the country's nationhood. There is a strong link between religion and violence, and this link has a long genealogy in Western scholarship. It is against this background that this research addresses the political and economic effects of the religious conflict in CAR. More than half of the respondents in this study agreed that the use of religion as an instrument to acquire political power led to the conflict in CAR. Since religion is a major source of soft power, it is used and misused by religious and governmental organizations to pursue their interests. Religion is not inherently violent; instead, it is how people choose to interpret religion that provides justification for violent actions. The study recommends that the government should emphasize the secularity and supremacy of the constitution and religious leaders should establish inter-faith platforms to curb religious crises.

Uncovering community needs regarding violence against women and girls in southern Ethiopia: An explorative study.

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is a significant global public health problem and a violation of human rights experienced by one in three women worldwide. This study explores community perceptions of and responses to VAWG and challenges in accessing support services among female violence survivors in Arbaminch City. We adopted a phenomenological explorative qualitative study design. A total of 62 participants including female violence survivors, religious leaders, service providers, police, women, and men in participated in interviews, focus group discussions, and observations in August 2022. Participants were selected purposively, and the findings were analyzed thematically. We applied data source and respondent triangulation to increase the findings' trustworthiness. Community perceptions of VAWG, specifically of intimate partner violence (IPV) and non-partner sexual violence (NPSV), varied depending on gender, age, and social position. IPV and NPSV were normalized through tolerance and denial by young and married men, while resistance to all forms of violence was common among women. Survivors of violence responded to the act of violence by leaving their homes, separating from their husbands, or taking harsh actions against their husbands, such as murder. Support for VAWG survivors was available through health care, free legal services, and a temporary shelter. Yet factors ranging from individual to societal levels, such as fear, lack of knowledge, lack of family and community support, and social and legal injustice, were barriers to accessing existing services. Nonetheless, violence survivors desired to speak about their experiences and seek psychosocial support. Our qualitative evidence gathered here can inform tailored VAWG prevention and response services such as interventions to shift social norms and the perception towards VAWG among different population group through raising awareness in schools, health care settings, faith-based venues, and using social media.

Construction of The Concept of Religious Moderation Institut Agama Islam Negeri Curup

This study aims to analyze the construction of the concept of religious moderation at IAIN Curup based on the perspectives of the academic community, religious leaders and community leaders of Rejang Lebong. This type of research is descriptive qualitative research. This research was conducted in October 2021 with research instruments in the form of questionnaire sheets, observation sheets, and interview sheets. The population taken in this study is the entire academic community of IAIN Curup and all religious and community leaders of Rejang Lebong. From the entire population, a sample of 200 people who are the academic community and 22 people who are religious leaders and community leaders of Rejang Lebong are taken. Sampling using purposive sampling technique. The results of this study indicate that the concept of religious moderation in IAIN Curup is returned to their respective lecturers through course licensing, maybe not 100% but the concept of religious moderation at IAIN Curup is still being pursued. Empirical experience of religious moderation at IAIN Curup has been felt starting from internal activities on campus as well as external activities in collaboration with parties outside the campus. The first strategy for implementing religious moderation in IAIN Curup is licensing in certain subjects and lecturer workshops, research on religious moderation, and thematic Community Service and Community Service. The understanding of religious moderation from the academic community, community leaders and religious leaders of Rejang Lebong is good. The direction of developing religious moderation within IAIN Curup by making activities from Real Work Lectures (KKN), lectures, research and others has the aim of leading to religious moderation. For further research on the construction of religious moderation in the IAIN Curup environment, it can be taken from even more perspectives.

Countering extremism through islamic education: Curriculum and pedagogical approaches

The research aims to evaluate how Islamic education can counter extremism, focusing on curriculum and teaching methods. It reviews existing literature to identify how Islamic education can promote peace, tolerance, and critical thinking to challenge extremist ideologies. The study outlines the research process, which includes defining objectives, searching academic databases, and selecting relevant studies based on predefined criteria. It analyzes selected literature to identify key findings and gaps, providing insights for educators and policymakers. Key findings suggest that balanced Islamic teachings can reduce support for extremism, emphasizing values like compassion and justice. Critical thinking and interfaith dialogue are crucial in fostering peaceful coexistence. Educator training is vital for navigating sensitive topics and promoting tolerance. Successful educational programs often extend their impact beyond classrooms through community partnerships. The research highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and development of scalable educational interventions. It calls for collaboration among educators, policymakers, and researchers to create comprehensive Islamic education programs that promote peace and counter extremism, ultimately fostering inclusive and resilient societies. The keywords "Islamic education, countering extremism, curriculum, pedagogy, and systematic review" encapsulate the study's focus on educational strategies to combat radical ideologies. Research Highlights: Pedagogical Innovations: Research highlights the significance of integrating innovative pedagogical methods within Islamic education to foster critical thinking and dialogue. Approaches such as experiential learning, role-playing, and interactive discussions empower students to engage with complex religious concepts and challenge extremist ideologies effectively. Community Engagement: Studies emphasize the importance of community involvement in Islamic education initiatives. Collaborative efforts between educational institutions, religious leaders, and grassroots organizations facilitate the development and implementation of culturally relevant programs that promote peace, tolerance, and social cohesion within communities. Long-Term Impact: Research underscores the need for longitudinal studies to evaluate the sustained impact of Islamic education programs on countering extremism. Understanding the long-term effects of these interventions on students' attitudes, behaviors, and community engagement is crucial for informing evidence-based policies and practices. Cross-Cultural Perspectives: Cross-cultural research highlights the diversity of approaches to Islamic education and their effectiveness in different contexts. Comparative studies offer valuable insights into best practices and challenges, informing the adaptation and implementation of educational strategies across diverse cultural and regional settings