Religious Pluralism Research Articles

Mukti Ali's scientific-cum-doctrinaire approach and Ibn Arabi's wahdat al-adyan in strengthening religious moderation

A conservative adherence to religious beliefs and fanaticism has the potential to result in a unilateral judgment toward other faiths. At the exoteric level, religions represent different ways of approaching the divine. However, when one sees this from an esoteric point of view, all these religions aim for one divinity. This esoteric perspective is in line with the idea of religious pluralism in the modern world. However, long before that, Ibn Arabi had already discussed this idea. Firstly, Ibn Arabi talked about his philosophy of divinity. God, on one hand, is One, unreachable, transcendent, but also as the resembling, close, immanent. From the immanent aspect, God then manifests and reveals Himself continuously, resulting in diverse beings, including religion. However, in this research, Ibn Arabi's ideas were found to be only ideological-apologetic. Therefore, the author collaborates them with Mukti Ali's ideas, which are modern and methodological, combining various approaches, both normative and scientific, in the study of religious moderation called scientific-cum-doctrinaire. The method used in this research is descriptive-collaborative. The scientific-cum-doctrinaire is used to investigate Islam and other religions, with the expectation that it will foster interfaith literacy, encourage inter-religious cooperation, and contribute to the promotion of religious moderation. In this light, the parallel between Mukti Ali and Ibn Arabi becomes apparent.

‘Religion is the Opium of the People’: An FDA Analysis on the Construction of Religion by Young Greek Adults

This study examines the discourses constructed around religion in Greek society, focusing on the transition from conservative religious beliefs prevailing in micro societies to a more accepting discourse at the macro societal level. The research employs a qualitative approach, specifically utilizing Foucauldian Discourse Analysis (FDA) on 7 interviews of young Greek adults, to explore the evolving landscape in Greece and the power dynamics of religion influenced by education, social interaction, and relevant discourses, resulting in a diminished influence of religion over time. The findings reveal the presence of tolerance towards religious diversity, challenging the traditional conservative discourse, which is characterized by strict adherence to Orthodox religious practices and resistance to religious pluralism, while also highlighting the declining power of religion. The study demonstrates how individuals aligning with the acceptive discourse value their own religious beliefs while fostering co-existence with individuals of different religious groups, without being heavily influenced by the church. Notably, younger generations, shaped by an era emphasizing social interaction, exhibit a stronger alignment with this discourse. By illuminating the shaping of identities and orienting actions within these discourses, this research contributes to the understanding of religion in Greek society. It underscores the significance of religion as a subject warranting ongoing scholarly attention and highlights the need for future research to explore the complexities of religious beliefs and discourses across the country using varied methodological approaches. Keywords: Greek society, Greek Orthodox church, discourse analysis, conservative beliefs, religious tolerance, social interaction, power dynamics

INTERNALISASI NILAI KERUKUNAN UMAT BERAGAMA OLEH GURU PAK DALAM MEMPERKUAT SOLIDARITAS SOSIAL SISWA

The purpose of this study was to find out the internalization of the value of religious harmony by PAK teachers in strengthening the social solidarity of Grade VIII students at SMP Negeri 1 Soe. This study used a qualitative method where primary data was collected through interviews with 5 PAK teachers and 5 students from class VIII SMP Negeri 1 Soe as respondents using the FGD (Focus Group Discussion) approach. The data that has been collected is then analyzed and discussed using a descriptive approach. The results of the study show that the internalization of the values ​​of religious harmony has been manifested in every lesson by PAK teachers at SMP Negeri 1 Soe through teaching and education related to living the values ​​of tolerance, equality, and building cooperation with other friends regardless of background religious beliefs. In addition, the values ​​of inter-religious harmony that have been instilled as a whole and as a whole are able to have an impact on the strengthening of social solidarity among students at SMP Negeri 1 Soe which is shown by mutual trust, mutual respect, responsibility for the common good, paying attention to the interests each other despite living in religious pluralism.

Liberalisme Dalam Kajian Al-Qur’an (Study Pada Situs www.islamlib.com)

Many Islamic controversies, especially regarding the ideas of the Liberal Islamic Network group, stem from human understanding, not from laws imposed by God. Opportunities like this often occur when religion is in human hands and resources are based on their own views and understanding abilities, therefore the purpose of writing this article is to examine the views of the Liberal Islamic Network (JIL) group towards the Al-Qur'an published through online media on the IslamLib website. Using analytical descriptive methods through a literature review, the author examines the views of the Liberal Islamic Network group regarding Human Rights (HAM), LGBT, Religious Pluralism, then analyzes them based on the Al-Qur'an approach and its rules of interpretation. The results of this research are to find out the meaning of Liberalism in the Al-Quran which is applied through the Liberal Islam website.

The Baha’i Religion: Maqasid Syariah of Social Religious Frictions in Indonesia

<span id="docs-internal-guid-e3c1db62-7fff-e237-cf7d-9d2eeb59a50e"><span>The contestation of conversation about the Baha'i religious group in Indonesia continues from time to time. In valuable retrospect, there has been much debate that characterizes the existence of the Baha'i group. As a result, it is very unfortunate that there are many frictions caused by socio-religious friction in the social sphere. This has led to many assumptions about religious freedom in Indonesia, which are increasingly showing a repressive trend. The author is interested in analyzing the various frictions that arise between the gaps in religious plurality in Indonesia, both pragmatic and paradigmatic. In addition, the author wants to examine how the role of the government can break the deadlock of friction. The research was conducted with a qualitative analysis oriented toward a literature review and Maqasid Syariah as a theoretical perception. Exploration research focuses on various phenomena that occur around the presence of Baha'is in Indonesia and how potential conflicts can arise in them. This research proves that the state needs to be present to accommodate various religions and coexist by prioritizing the concept of benefit for all citizens. In addition, the role of society in maintaining multicultural values must be initiated more intensely and in a dialogical manner.</span></span>

The Demands of Madrasah Management Transformation: Strategies to Realize Quality Madrasas Climate

This study aims to determine the madrasa management strategy in creating a quality madrasa climate to improve the quality of Islamic education in Indonesia. The research method used is a mixed method, namely by combining quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data is in the form of the percentage of madrasa climate implementation. Qualitative data is in the form of descriptions of respondents' perceptions of the use of the madrasah climate. Respondents in this study were madrasa heads, educators, and employees in the madrasa environment, totaling 68 people. These respondents came from 7 provinces in Indonesia who were randomly selected based on region (cluster random sampling). Researchers analyzed quantitative data from the results of the questionnaire descriptively. Meanwhile, qualitative data analysis uses the Miles Huberman model. The results of this study indicate that 89.7% of respondents improve the quality of education services to produce a quality madrasah climate. There are 83.8% of madrasas that have the characteristics of forming a positive madrasa climate such as forming an Islamic culture, improving skills, developing students' interests and talents, and paying attention to character values. The implementation of this strategy is the result of collaboration between madrasa heads, educators, staff, and students. This is indicated by the successive percentages of 92%, 92.6% and 85.3%. The findings of this study reveal that the formation of a quality madrasah climate does not give up the values of religious moderation in the actualization of religion for students in the midst of religious pluralism in Indonesia.

Етнічні, освітні та релігійні аспекти в державотворчій ідеології українських націоналістів у першій половині ХХ століття

The article is devoted to issues of the ideology of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) in the field of education, church and religion, issues of national minorities and peoples who lived on the territory of Ukraine in the first half of the 20th century. The authors note that in the interwar period, the OUN did not attach much importance to the issue of national minorities, and among some members of the OUN there was a somewhat critical attitude towards the Polish and Russian peoples. Such a situation with regard to the mentioned national groups was determined by historical realities, as well as by such factors as the deterioration of the attitude of the Polish authorities towards Ukrainians in Galicia, mass repressions and famines against Ukrainians in the territories controlled by the USSR. The position of representatives of the OUN towards national minorities was changing and brought its positive results, which is confirmed by the facts of the cooperation of the OUN and the UPA with representatives of various national minorities, including Russians, Poles, Jews and others. The article also analyzes the views of all OUN groups on the role of religion in the state, which evolved over time in the direction of democratic standards of religious pluralism and indifference. The role of the religious factor in the education of citizens was defined as paramount. The need to unify churches was put forward as a priority idea. It was the Christian religion that was recognized as the basis of morality and spiritual peace of the Ukrainian people, and the unification of Ukrainian Christian churches was considered a national necessity. Ukrainian nationalists were aware of the leading role of the educational sphere in the promotion of statist ideas, and therefore promoted absolute state control over the latter. As the authors note, the state ideology in the independent Ukrainian state was to be Ukrainian nationalism. In the concepts of the future Ukrainian state, considerable attention was also paid to the problem of the individual, his role in the life of society and the state. Nationalists argued that the rights of each person are directly proportional to the duties to the nation.

Historical Roots of Interethnic Harmony and Tolerance in Uzbekistan

Objectives: This article explores the historical roots of interethnic harmony and tolerance in Uzbekistan, a country situated in Central Asia. Uzbekistan has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with a long history of different ethnic groups coexisting and interacting within its borders. The paper examines key historical periods and events that have shaped the foundations of interethnic harmony in the region.
 
 Methods: The article begins by delving into the ancient history of Uzbekistan, highlighting the influence of various civilizations and empires, such as the Persian, Greek, and Arab empires. These interactions fostered cultural exchange, religious pluralism, and linguistic diversity, laying the groundwork for a society that embraced differences and valued coexistence. Furthermore, the paper explores the legacy of the Silk Road, which played a pivotal role in connecting different regions and facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The Silk Road brought together merchants, scholars, and artisans from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural understanding and tolerance.
 
 Results: The article also examines the impact of Islam on interethnic relations in Uzbekistan. Islam arrived in the region during the 8th century and became a unifying force, transcending ethnic boundaries. The spread of Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam, further promoted a spirit of harmony and acceptance, emphasizing the importance of spirituality over divisions based on ethnicity or social status. Moreover, the article discusses the Soviet era and its effect on interethnic relations. During this period, the Soviet government implemented policies aimed at promoting equality and unity among different ethnic groups. Education and employment opportunities were made accessible to all, fostering a sense of shared identity and promoting social cohesion. Finally, the article examines contemporary Uzbekistan, highlighting the efforts of the government in promoting interethnic harmony and tolerance. The country has adopted policies that protect minority rights, encourage cultural diversity, and foster dialogue among different ethnic groups. Initiatives such as language and cultural festivals, interethnic marriages, and inclusive education programs contribute to a society where diversity is celebrated and valued.
 Conclusion: In conclusion, Uzbekistan's historical roots of interethnic harmony and tolerance can be traced back to its ancient civilizations, the Silk Road, the influence of Islam, and the policies implemented during the Soviet era. These factors have shaped a society that embraces diversity and promotes peaceful coexistence among its various ethnic groups. Understanding and appreciating these historical foundations are crucial for fostering continued harmony and tolerance in Uzbekistan and beyond.

Modernity, Sigmáá Masquerading, and the Psychosocial Development of the Youth

Modern trends, Islam and Christianity, have influenced the cultures of Tampúlma and resulted in dramatic changes in the youth’s attitude towards Sigmáá masquerading. This has adversely affected psychosocial development and the general worldview of youth. The elders of this age-long tradition have bemoaned the recent upsurge of moral decadence among the youth, and the contemplation of its source appears to be laid at the doorsteps of modernity and religious pluralism. Through interviews and focus group discussions, the views of some key informants and youth groups were elicited from among the various Sigmáá masquerading communities among the Tampúlma people for concerted ideas on how to alter the declining trend from the high precipice of moral standards that were bequeathed to the present generation by generations. The study established that through Sigmáá masquerading, communication between people was achieved through spiritism, initiations, symbolism, appellations, and proverbial songs. These verbal and non-verbal communication media have psychological, spiritual, philosophical, and sociological influences on the youth’s moral values, ethics, and livelihoods. It was recommended that Sigmáá masquerading should be encouraged and consciously promoted as the bedrock of moral education in which the youth’s physical, spiritual, and psychological capabilities are harnessed and guided toward moral development.

Religious Pluralism According to K.H. Abun Bunyamin in Tafsir Al-Ma'arif

The pluralism of religion in Indonesia has always been a significant topic of debate, given the diversity of this country, consisting of various ethnicities, cultures, and religions. Among the Islamic community, discussions regarding religious pluralism often become heated, with various arguments and evidence presented. One of the viewpoints that addresses religious pluralism is that of K.H. Abun Bunyamin, a prominent Islamic figure in the West Java region, as articulated in his book, Tafsir Al-Ma'arif. This research aims to understand Abun Bunyamin's perspective on religious pluralism in his work. The research method employed is a descriptive-analytical approach, involving problem description, in-depth analysis, and meticulous presentation of research findings. Data sources used include document analysis of Abun Bunyamin's writings and direct interviews with him. The research findings indicate that Abun Bunyamin vehemently rejects the idea of religious pluralism. His perspective is grounded in the interpretation of Surah Ali Imran, verse 85, in which he believes that religious pluralism is not only about recognizing the diversity of religions but also supporting the existence and diversity of these religions. Moreover, he opposes the view of proponents of religious pluralism who claim that all religions are true as long as they submit to God. Abun Bunyamin's perspective on religious pluralism is also influenced by his experiences and his position as the Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in Purwakarta Regency, as well as being a kiai who teaches the general public. This has made him more focused on strengthening faith and distancing himself from hatred towards individuals with different beliefs. Thus, this perspective reflects an effort to promote tolerance and harmony among religions in the diverse context of Indonesia.

Analyzing John H. Hick’s Religious Pluralism and Its Implications from Islamic Ethical Perspectives

This paper underscores religious pluralism postulated by John Hick (1922–2012) to (re)solve various perceived conflicts of religious diversity and inter-religious relationships in the modern times. To embark on the religious implications of Hick’s postulation from an Islamic standpoint with an emphasis on the ethical perspectives, this study discusses all the relevant conflicts arising due to the misrepresentation of certain issues in a religious context. Additionally, this research is eloquent as it highlights certain moral principles provided by Islam to address the real and potential conflicts of religious diversity and inter-religious issues without any apologetic view of Islamic core doctrines; this contrasts with Hick’s approach that implies a fundamental revision in the foundational doctrines of Islamic belief system. Therefore, to focus on the doctrinal, theological, and epistemic implications; concerning any attempt by the Muslims to adopt Hick’s view with special attention on Islamic ethics as the better alternative, this research analyzed various Qur’ānic verses. Furthermore, the study uses a qualitative method of interpretive and critical analysis approaches and the relevant Qur’ānic verses and previous studies to originate its sources of data from related research. Moreover, the paper concludes that an ethical approach to religious diversity and interreligious issues and conflicts is more pragmatic and effective based on Islamic perspectives other than Hick’s religious pluralism, which necessarily implies religious relativism, agnosticism, and skepticism that are antithetical to the Islamic worldview.

Impact of Postmodernism on the Thought of Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals (IMIs)

Postmodernism is a worldview that borrowed its nomenclature from an era after modernism into progressive thought that turned into a reputed idea denouncing the absolute truth, affirming relativism, pluralism, and hermeneutics. The current study attempted to disclose their impact on the thought of Indonesian Muslim intellectuals (IMI). However, the depiction of the idea of postmodernism and its embedded concepts would precede it. The current study was based on a qualitative research design and the data was utilized from the prevailing discourses in mass media, journal articles, books, MA thesis, and PhD dissertation. To analyze the data, descriptive and critical analysis methods were adopted. The research determined the impact of postmodernism on the thought of IMI which can be identified in three major issues namely, in the Qur’ānic studies, in gender equality, and in religious pluralism. In a number of articles, books, and theses the IMIs have applied the postmodern hermeneutic approach to Qur’ānic studies uncritically. Consequently, it can shift or override the science of interpretation in Islam (tafsīr). In gender equality, the influence is even clearer, since the IMIs applied this postmodern doctrine and search justification from the Qur’ān by using hermeneutical approach which brought about discrepancies in legal decisions. The impact of postmodern relativism on religious pluralism is apparent. In this part, the IMI discourses revolve around the validity of all religions, implying the denouncement of absolute truth or the exclusivity of religion, including Islam. In fact, each of the three major issues could be scrutinized further.

The Unity of Religious Experience: An Analytic Reading of Friedrich Schleiermacher’s Second Speech On Religion

Abstract In this paper, I present a conception of individual religiousness in terms of religious experience. Using ideas of the early Friedrich Schleiermacher, I will claim that religious experiences are contemplative experiences of the totality of being. This understanding of religious experiences presents an alternative to how religious experience is often epistemologically thought about in the more contemporary analytic philosophy of religion. Furthermore, it has systematic advantages: It can construe religious plurality in terms of different ways to experience the totality of being, it stays neutral to metaphysical and moral debates such as whether there is a God whose laws we should obey, and it allows for an explanation of how religious intuitions and religious emotions relate to one another as well as of why religiousness and art often go hand in hand. Even though understanding religiousness in terms of contemplative experience also bears revisionary potential, I will discuss how more doxastic elements of religious people’s lives can be reintegrated into this picture.

Gamson–Modigliani Framing Analysis on Cin(T)a and 3 Hati 2 Dunia 1 Cinta

The journey of the national film industry has a long history. Gradually, the film industry has become a mere commercial industry dominated by horror and comedy films. This has resulted in the formation of stereotypes that all national films have the same content and do not vary. The films "cin(T)a" and "3 Hati 2 Dunia 1 Cinta" present as new variations in national cinema, which carry the unusual theme of religious pluralism. Gamson and Modigliani's framing analysis sees mass media discourse as consisting of a number of packages to form the construction of an event. There are two aspects to framing. First, choose reality. Second, how the media presents that reality. Gamson and Modigliani's framing analysis consists of two elements: framing devices and reasoning devices. The research method used in this study is descriptive qualitative method. Descriptive qualitative methods produce up-to-date data that can be used in the development of science. The results of this study found that the films "cin(T)a" and "3 Hati 2 Dunia 1 Cinta" portray religious pluralism as a beautiful thing, and people should be able to live in harmony and comfort despite differences in society, but it does not deny that although the two films try to show the relationship between religions from a positive side, the relationship between religions is still something that cannot be accepted by some people. Based on the results of the study, the author concludes that religious pluralism is a beautiful thing in the lives of Indonesian people. However, many things must be considered if religious pluralism is associated in the context of romance, especially to the marriage ladder.

Between Pluralism and Homogeneity: A History of Religious Diversity Management in the Arabian Peninsula

The Arabian Peninsula is characterized by an unequivocal diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and religious traditions. This characteristic has been an inherent part of the Arabian Peninsula; however, it was silenced at certain historical junctures when promoting a homogeneous alternative. I argue that the attitude towards religions in the Arabian Peninsula moved through three historical stages: a past nonchalant attitude, whereby religions did not figure prominently in the public sphere; a modern linkage of emerging nation-states with an exclusive rendition of Islam; and a contemporary vacillating attitude that mixes traces of the more open past with remnants of the modern era’s guarded outlook. The select, ongoing attempts at reconstituting the region as religiously pluralistic today is welcome but of little value absent as a systematic cultivation of religious pluralism in critical fields like education, media, law, and civil society. Informed by Subaltern Studies and Marxist thought, pursuing erasure and trivialization methods helps decode Arabian Peninsula silences. By surveying different case studies, this paper reassesses religious diversity management and its history in the Arabian Peninsula.

Landasan Filosofis-Teologis dalam Kurikulum Pendidikan Agama Islam

In the modern era with all its complexity, a deep understanding of Islamic philosophy and theology becomes very relevant to answer the challenges of globalization, religious pluralism, and social change. From a philosophical-theological basis, the PAI curriculum has high urgency because it is an important basis for forming the understanding and practice of the Islamic religion for Muslim individuals. It is important to note that it not only contributes to the development of a more effective and relevant PAI curriculum but also to the formation of the character and morals of Muslim individuals, which has a major impact on building an ethical and harmonious society. This research aims to analyze the philosophical-theological basis for developing the PAI curriculum and identify its practical implications in the context of Islamic religious education in Indonesia. The approach taken is a qualitative approach, using library research methods with data collection techniques obtained from primary and secondary data. Based on the results of research conducted, it is revealed that the philosophical-theological foundation in the PAI curriculum has a central role in forming meaningful and effective religious education in the Islamic education environment. Islamic philosophy and theology are the main basis for formulating objectives, materials, teaching methods, and values to be conveyed to students in the PAI context, which can help students develop a deeper understanding of Islamic teachings, such as monotheism and the afterlife, as well as values. -moral values that are in accordance with religious teachings, reflect a commitment to maintaining Islamic identity in education, ensuring that religious learning is integrated with consistency in Islamic teachings and values. Thus, the development of a PAI curriculum based on a philosophical-theological foundation contributes to the formation of Muslim students' religious character and commitment, along with maintaining the quality and relevance of Islamic religious education in the educational environment.

Interrogating Hick’s View of Religious Pluralism

A philosopher whose name has become almost synonymous with religious pluralism is John Hick. He justifies his position by borrowing insights and concepts from Immanuel Kant and Ludwig Wittgenstein. We argue that Kantian and Wittgensteinian frameworks are inadequate to explain and defend religious pluralism of the kind he advocates. We critically analyze the concepts of religious experience and religious language and then proceed to discuss Yoga school of Indian philosophy as a limiting case against his enterprise.

Navigating Diversity: Exploring Religious Pluralism and Social Harmony in Indonesian Society

This paper explores the intricate dynamics of religious pluralism and social harmony in Indonesian society. With its diverse religious landscape and multicultural population, Indonesia serves as a fascinating case study to investigate how different religious communities coexist and contribute to societal cohesion. Through a mixed methods approach and an extensive literature review, this study examines the historical, cultural, and socio-political factors that shape religious pluralism in Indonesia. It analyzes the interactions among religious communities, the influence of government policies and regulations, and the role of interfaith dialogue and initiatives. Additionally, the research explores manifestations of social harmony, including successful case studies of interfaith cooperation, social programs fostering unity, and the impact of religious leaders in promoting tolerance. Furthermore, the study critically examines the challenges and conflicts that arise in a religiously diverse society, considering factors such as political and economic influences and legal and policy issues pertaining to religious freedom and minority rights. The findings of this study provide insights and recommendations for policymakers, religious leaders, and society to cultivate understanding, cooperation, and peace amidst diversity.

MODERASI BERAGAMA: PERAN DAN TANTANGAN DALAM PEMBELAJARAN DI SEKOLAH DI ERA DIGITAL

Religious moderation is defined as an attitude aimed at reducing violence or avoiding extremism in religious practices to balance religious teachings. This is reflected in defending religious teachings while accepting opposing views. Religious moderation aims to bring harmony into the lives of others. The role of religious mediation that students must understand in the current digital era is as follows: 1) Peaceful education that respects human rights and friendship between nations, races or groups, 2) developing entrepreneurship and partnerships with industry, 3) paying attention to prophetic Islam, 4 ) include lessons about tolerance and religious pluralism, 5) understanding of Islam for it was passed down to a moderate anti-mainstream Indonesian Islamist, 6) balancing views between intellectual, spiritual, moral and casual abilities, 7) producing intellectual scholars, 8) solutions to educational problems , 9) emphasizing the holistic quality of education and 10) the ability to improve foreign language skills. In order to develop moderate students, there are many challenges to be faced, especially in the increasingly advanced digital era, such as the current decline in attachment to religious institutions, changes in religious theory and the strengthening of individualism.

A Religiously Pluralistic Milieu in Austria during the Interwar Period

Abstract The article focuses on what the author describes as a religiously pluralistic milieu. It proposes that religious plurality is very much part and parcel of the recollections of the interwar period in Vienna, Austria. First, the article underlines the significance of sociocultural milieus, family upbringing, and school interaction for the constructions of religious plurality. Second, it raises the question of the social embeddedness of religious plurality in the memories of the interwar period in Vienna. The findings are based upon an oral history project, “Religiöse Vielfalt an Wiener Schulen der Zwischenkriegszeit” (ZwieKrie) (Religious plurality in Viennese schools during the interwar period). The project analyzed individual memories of religious plurality by a set of twenty-four contemporary witnesses attending Viennese schools during the 1920s and 1930s.