Abrahamic Religions: Jurnal Studi Agama-Agama
Editor in Chief: Dr. Mawardi, S.Th.I., MA Managing Editor: Khairil Fazal, S.Th.I., M.Ag In Collaboration: Asosiasi Studi Agama Indonesia (ASAI) Indexed in: Sinta³ | Garuda | Scholar | More Publisher: UIN Ar-Raniry, Banda Aceh Frequency: 2 issues per year (March and September) Abrahamic Religions: Jurnal Studi Agama-Agama is a peer-reviewed academic journal that publishes scholarly works in the field of religious studies from a variety of theoretical and methodological perspectives. It accepts original articles based on both textual analysis and empirical research. The journal gives special emphasis to studies that explore the dynamics of religion in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, particularly those that examine religion in relation to culture, society, history, and doctrinal developments. The journal aspires to contribute to global academic discourse by foregrounding regional perspectives and fostering innovative approaches to the study of religion. The editorial office is located at the Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Ushuluddin and Philosophy, UIN Ar-Raniry, Jl. Syaikh Abdul Rauf, Kopelma Darussalam, Banda Aceh, Aceh 23111, Indonesia. Email: jurnal.abrahamic@ar-raniry.ac.id
Authors who publish in this Journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0) allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgment of its initial publication in this journal. Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work. (See The Effect of Open Acces)
Buddhist Values in Outdoor Learning: A Qualitative Study on Mindfulness and Behavioral Development in Early Childhood Education
Early childhood development faces significant challenges due to sedentary lifestyles and excessive screen time, affecting not only motor skills but also behavioral regulation and mindfulness. TK Nava Dhammasekha Dhamma Bakti Jaya has implemented Outdoor Learning since 2024; however, preliminary observations indicated that many children in group B still showed limitations in behavioral regulation and awareness during activities. This study aims to analyze the integration of Buddhist values in Outdoor Learning and its impact on mindfulness and behavioral development in early childhood education. This research employed a qualitative approach with an instrumental case study design conducted over five months (July–November 2024). The participants included 13 children in group B, 3 teachers, and 1 principal. Data were collected through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. Data analysis was carried out using reflective thematic analysis, with source and technique triangulation to ensure validity. The findings reveal that: (1) The integration of Buddhist values was implemented through three main mechanisms: breathing awareness before activities (sati), emphasis on effort rather than outcomes (viriya), and calm acceptance of failure (upekkhā); (2) Improvements in mindfulness and adaptive behavior were observed in 10 out of 13 children (76.9%), particularly in emotional regulation, attention focus, and calmness during activities; (3) Supporting factors included the availability of natural environments as learning affordances and strong teacher commitment, while inhibiting factors involved extreme weather conditions and parental safety concerns. In conclusion, integrating Buddhist values into Outdoor Learning effectively enhances mindfulness and adaptive behavior in early childhood through embodied awareness practices and the cultivation of perseverance. This model is particularly relevant for faith-based early childhood education, especially in rural contexts with limited resources
Copyright (c) 2026 I Gede Budarsana, Astri Chintya Astana Astana, Susijati Susijati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Development of an Islamic Community Model Based on Local Wisdom in Bandar Khalifah Village
This study aims to develop an Islamic community model based on local wisdom in Bandar Khalifah Village, Percut Sei Tuan District, Deli Serdang Regency. The research focuses on analyzing how local cultural values are integrated with Islamic teachings to strengthen religious identity, enhance social solidarity, and improve community welfare. It also examines the roles of key social actors and identifies the challenges encountered in implementing the model. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with ten informants (including religious leaders, traditional leaders, village officials, and community members), and documentation studies. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns of strategies and social dynamics. The findings reveal that the Islamic community development model is constructed through the integration of Islamic values such as ukhuwah Islamiyah (Islamic brotherhood), ta’awun (mutual assistance), and shura (deliberation) with local wisdom practices, including kenduri (communal feasts), gotong royong (mutual cooperation), village deliberation, and regular religious gatherings. This integration strengthens social cohesion and fosters a harmonious and inclusive religious environment. Religious leaders and Islamic educational institutions play a significant role as facilitators in transforming local wisdom into effective instruments of da'wah. However, the model faces several challenges, including the impact of modernization that gradually erodes traditional practices, shifting values among younger generations, and the lack of formal documentation of local wisdom. This study contributes to the formulation of a contextually relevant Islamic community development model for rural settings
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Bagas Ansari Lubis, Mohd. Iqbal Abdul Muin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Spirituality of Love in the Bible: A Theological-Ethical Analysis in the Context of Globalization
This study examines the spirituality of love in the Bible and its relevance to the challenges of globalization through a theological-ethical analysis. The article addresses three central concerns: how biblical teachings on love are understood as a foundation for spiritual and social life, how the values of love are expressed in contemporary Christian social practice, and what challenges globalization presents to the practice of those values. This study employs a qualitative design based on library research, drawing on biblical texts, theological works, and relevant scholarly literature on Christian ethics, spirituality, and globalization. The analysis shows that the spirituality of love in the Bible, especially as expressed through the concept of agape, functions as a theological and ethical framework that connects devotion to God with responsibility toward others. The study also finds that the values of love continue to shape Christian life in such areas as family, education, church ministry, and public engagement. At the same time, the practice of love faces significant pressures in the contemporary world, including materialism, individualism, consumerism, technological transformation, and secularization. In this context, the spirituality of love remains relevant as an ethical resource for sustaining compassion, solidarity, justice, and human dignity in an increasingly globalized society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sri Wahyuni Batubara, Arifinsyah Arifinsyah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Feminist Hermeneutics of Fatima Mernissi and a Discourse Analysis of Aurat in the Indonesian Context
This study examines the concept of women's aurah in Islam through the thought of Fatimah Mernissi by placing it within the framework of Michel Foucault's discourse analysis. This research aims to analyze how Mernissi reconstructs the understanding of aurat through a hermeneutical-feminist approach and examine the relevance of her thinking in the context of Indonesian Islam. The method used is a qualitative approach with library research, through systematic discourse analysis, including the identification of the formation of the discourse of the interpretation of the aurat, the analysis of the power-knowledge relationship, and the reading of Mernissi's thought as the object of discourse. The results of the study show that aurat can be understood as a discursive construct created through the legitimacy of religious interpretation and negotiated in the dynamics of the Islamic women's movement in Indonesia. Therefore, the concept of aurah not only serves as a theological standard, but also as a place where meaning is created and resolved in modern Islamic discussions
Copyright (c) 2026 Sahilah Rizkiyah, Solihul Huda, Khoirul Anam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Moral Development as a Regulatory Strategy for Nafs al-Lawwamah: An Islamic Psychological Perspective
Nafs al-lawwamah is an interesting study to discuss. Because the concept of nafs al-lawwamah requires two scientific studies, namely between Islamic psychology and Islamic scholarship. However, with the many concepts in the two disciplines, a study specification is needed so that a detailed and comprehensive study is produced. In addition, seeing the concept of nafs al-lawwamah which is closely related to how individuals can direct their souls in the right direction, training or habituation is needed which is also a study in psychology. One of them is moral development which is one of the concepts of soul development, where this concept describes a blend of psychology and Islamic scholarship. Because of the continuity of the concept of training or mental development of individuals and even certain groups through moral development, the author conducted this research. Therefore, this study aims to find out more deeply about the concept of nafs al-lawwamah, the concept of moral development, the steps for moral development, and the effectiveness of the concept. The method used in this research is a literature study with library research, and the sources used are journals and documents relevant to the study in this research. From the sources obtained, an analysis related to the research objectives was carried out. The results of this study are that it can be seen the steps of moral development will have positive implications for the nafs al-lawwamah, so that it will become a nafs al-mutmainnah
Copyright (c) 2026 Muslim Hidayat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Ecotheology and the Spirit of Ecology: A Comparative Study of World Religions and the Baduy Indigenous Tradition
The contemporary global ecological crisis is driven by multiple factors, including a profound ethical crisis in the human-nature relationship. In this context, religious ethics assumes a significant normative responsibility. This study aims to analyze ecotheology as a form of religious ethics that embodies a spirit of ecology through a comparative approach encompassing both world religions and an indigenous religion. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research design and a conceptual-comparative analysis of theological sources within Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and the indigenous religion of the Baduy community, as well as academic scholarship addressing the relationship between religion and ecology. The findings indicate that each religious tradition possesses a robust ethical foundation for responding to the ecological crisis, albeit grounded in distinct theological and cosmological orientations. Islam, Protestantism, and Catholicism emphasize the theological mandate of humans as stewards of God’s creation through the concepts of khalifah, stewardship, and the notion of the common home as normative bases of ecotheology. Meanwhile, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism develop ecotheological perspectives rooted in relational cosmology, cosmic harmony, interdependence, and moral moderation. Beyond the world religions, the indigenous religion of Baduy demonstrates a lived and praxis-oriented form of ecotheology expressed through customary law, ecological taboos, and sustainability practices grounded in ancestral tradition. This article argues that ecotheology is not exclusive to a particular tradition but emerges across diverse religious communities, both world religions and indigenous faiths, as an inherent ethical framework aligned with the spirit of ecology
Copyright (c) 2026 Asep Sandi Ruswanda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Reconfiguring Religion in The Digital Era: A Conceptual Framework for The Mediatization of Religion in Indonesia
This article examines how religion is reconfigured in the era of digital platforms and proposes a conceptual framework for the mediatization of religion in Indonesia. While existing scholarship on digital religion has provided rich empirical insights, much of it remains fragmented and often limited to specific platforms or practices. This study addresses that limitation by reconstructing the multidimensional framework of Rodrigues and Harding and integrating it with mediatization theory, the phenomenology of religion, and digital religion scholarship. The study employs a conceptual and analytical approach based on a focused literature review and theoretical synthesis. The analysis produces a framework organized around five interrelated components: media logic, algorithmic curation, networked community, authority shift, and ethical governance. Building on this framework, the article advances three conceptual propositions concerning algorithmic shifts in authority, the transformation of sacred experience under digital mediation, and the expansion of epistemic participation alongside its associated risks. To demonstrate the analytical capacity of the framework, the article draws on literature-based illustrations of the digital hijrah movement and online pengajian in Indonesia. These cases show how digital infrastructures reshape authority, ritual practice, and community formation while also generating tensions related to fragmentation, polarization, and misinformation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Erus Effendi, Roro Sri Rejeki Waliyajati, Dody S. Truna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Concept of God in the Perspectives of Karen Armstrong and Ibn ‘Athaillah al-Sakandari: A Spiritual Historical Comparative Study
This study aims to examine and compare the concept of God in the perspectives of Karen Armstrong and Ibn ‘Ata’illah al-Sakandari through a spiritual-historical comparative approach. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research design, focusing on an analysis of the main works of both thinkers. The findings reveal that Karen Armstrong understands God as a transcendent, unique, and incomparable reality that cannot be fully explained through rational concepts, but must be experienced existentially through spiritual awareness, myth, and ethical sensitivity, particularly compassion for the poor and the suffering. In contrast, Ibn ‘Ata’illah al-Sakandari conceives God through the concept of ma‘rifatullah (gnosis of God), which emphasizes inner knowledge attained through divine light, purification of the heart, remembrance (dhikr), trust in God (tawakkul), and a spiritual journey that requires detachment from worldly desires and a deep longing for closeness to Allah. The study concludes that both figures share similarities and differences in their understanding of God. The similarity lies in their view of God as the highest, transcendent reality, incomparable to anything else. The difference lies in the spiritual path toward God: Armstrong emphasizes transcendence, symbolic experience, and ethical-historical consciousness, while Ibn ‘Ata’illah emphasizes practical Sufism through ma‘rifah, spiritual discipline, inner purification, and intimate proximity to God
Copyright (c) 2026 Aan Hasanah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Dynamics of a Christian Minority within a Muslim-Majority Context: A Socio-Historical Study of Congko Village, Soppeng 1940–2024
This study examines the socio-historical dynamics of the Christian community in Batu Pute hamlet, Congko Village, Soppeng Regency, South Sulawesi, within a predominantly Muslim Bugis society from 1940 to 2024. The research focuses on the processes of emergence, survival, and transformation of Christian minority identity within a Muslim-majority social structure. The main research questions address: (1) the socio-cultural and spiritual factors influencing religious conversion in Batu Pute; (2) forms of adaptation, resistance, and survival strategies developed by the Christian community in response to political and ideological pressures during the colonial period, the Japanese occupation, and the DI/TII rebellion; and (3) the reconstruction of social relations and collective identity in the post-conflict period through the New Order and Reformasi era. This study employs a qualitative socio-historical approach, utilizing in-depth interviews, archival research, and literature analysis. The findings reveal that Christianity in Batu Pute did not emerge as a result of colonial religious intervention, but rather developed through local initiatives shaped by spiritual experiences and the integration of Bugis cultural values, particularly the concept of Dewata SeuwaE as a monotheistic theological framework. During periods of political turmoil, the community experienced marginalization and structural pressures, yet demonstrated remarkable social and spiritual resilience. In the post-conflict era, interreligious reconciliation was fostered through the internalization of local ethical principles such as sipakatau (humanizing others), sipakalebbi (mutual respect), and sipakainge (mutual moral reminding), which functioned as social capital for rebuilding intercommunal harmony. This study argues that the integration of minority religious identity with local cultural values constitutes a powerful social foundation for peacebuilding, social cohesion, and community resilience in plural societies
Copyright (c) 2026 Muh. Akhyar Al Haris All, Bahri, Patahuddin, Najamuddin Najamuddin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Spiritual Practices and The Acquisition of ‘Ilm Ladunni at Pondok Pesantren Tauhid Al Bajuri: An Epistemological Perspective of Al-Ghazali
This study examines the forms, meanings, and processes of spiritual practices in relation to the acquisition of ‘ilm ladunni (divinely bestowed knowledge) at Pondok Pesantren Tauhid Al Bajuri, and analyzes their relevance to Al-Ghazali’s epistemological framework. The study employs a qualitative approach with a phenomenological orientation to explore lived experiences and interpretations of spiritual practices within the pesantren context. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews with key participants, and documentation of institutional practices. The findings show that spiritual practices such as dhikr, khalwat, riyadhah, and tafakkur function as structured processes of self-discipline and inner purification. These practices are understood as preparatory stages for receiving knowledge, closely associated with the concept of tazkiyat al-nafs. The process of acquiring ‘ilm ladunni is interpreted as a gradual transformation involving stages of takhalli, tahalli, and tajalli, through which the heart (qalb) becomes receptive to deeper forms of understanding. The study further indicates that the distinction between ‘ilm kasbi and ‘ilm ladunni is reflected in practice as a complementary relationship rather than a dichotomy. Intellectual learning provides a conceptual foundation, while spiritual discipline contributes to the formation of inner readiness. These findings demonstrate that Al-Ghazali’s epistemological framework continues to operate within contemporary pesantren education, where knowledge is experienced as both learned and lived.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ahmad Yani Fathur Rohman, Muhammad Qomarul Huda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Role and Synergy of PTKIN and FKUB in Strengthening Interreligious Harmony in Aceh
This study analyzes the roles and patterns of synergy between State Islamic Higher Education Institutions (PTKIN) and the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB) in strengthening interfaith harmony in Aceh. The research employs a qualitative approach using in-depth interviews, participant observation, and institutional document analysis across selected PTKIN and FKUB institutions in Aceh. Data were analyzed through reduction, thematic categorization, and relational pattern interpretation. The findings indicate that PTKIN functions as a center for strengthening religious moderation through curriculum integration, research, and community engagement, while FKUB performs mediative and policy-facilitative roles in managing religious dynamics. Their synergy operates through dialogue forums, moderation training, and community-based collaborative programs. The study concludes that substantive religious harmony is more effectively achieved when PTKIN’s educational function is structurally connected with FKUB’s mediative role and supported by community participation. The research recommends strengthening institutional moderation frameworks within PTKIN and enhancing evidence-based conflict analysis capacity in FKUB
Copyright (c) 2026 Safrilsyah Safrilsyah, Fuad Fuad, Maimun Fuadi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Sound Horeg and Ritual Summons: A Philosophical Study of Tolerance in Indonesia through the Abu Dhabi Document
The public debate over the fatwa declaring Sound Horeg haram has sparked new reflections on shared spaces in Indonesia's diverse society. Sujiwo Tejo refers to this phenomenon as audio pollution, comparable to the ritual religious calls that often ring out at certain times of day, highlighting the need for careful discussion in reconsidering the use of loudspeakers in public spaces for the sake of communal harmony and justice. This phenomenon shows that religious practices can cause social friction when public spaces are not managed fairly for all citizens. This paper analyzes the dynamics of religious tolerance in Indonesia through a literature review and analysis of relevant literature, using the 2019 Abu Dhabi Document as an ethical foundation that emphasizes human brotherhood and rejects the manipulation of religion. The findings show that the roots of intolerance often stem from a narrow understanding of faith and the interests of religious elites that have the potential to divide unity. Nevertheless, sincere and constructive dialogue is the way to foster mutual respect and strengthen peaceful coexistence amid diversity
Copyright (c) 2026 Vincentius Yossy Kareli, Yohanes I Wayan Marianta, Efrem Dwi Valencio Dowa Lego, Antonius Hari Purnanto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Artificial Intelligence and the Transformation of Catholic Religious Authority and Learning Practices
This study examines the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping religious authority and learning practices within Catholic education, focusing on the subject of the Church as the People of God. Employing a qualitative research design based on Creswell’s approach, the study seeks to explore the lived experiences of teachers and students in engaging with AI as part of religious learning processes. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis at SMA Katolik 2 Kabanjahe, North Sumatra Province, involving two Catholic Religious Education teachers, thirty students, and the school principal. Data analysis followed the stages of data reduction, data display, and interactive conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that AI does not merely function as a pedagogical tool, but actively transforms patterns of religious learning and the mediation of ecclesial authority in the classroom. AI facilitates more contextual theological explanations, supports simulated pastoral dialogues, and provides visual resources that strengthen students’ conceptual and reflective understanding of the Church’s identity as the People of God. At the same time, the integration of AI reconfigures the role of teachers from primary transmitters of knowledge to mediators of meaning, interpretation, and ecclesial values. Students demonstrate increased learning motivation, deeper faith reflection, and more critical engagement with religious content. However, this transformation also generates challenges, including technological dependency, unequal digital literacy, and the need for continuous ethical and ecclesial guidance to ensure that AI-mediated learning remains aligned with Catholic values and religious authority structures
Copyright (c) 2026 Erikson Simbolon, Monika Handayani Ginting, Petrus Simarmata, Paulinus Tibo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Constructing Gender Authority in Modern Islam: A Sociology of Knowledge Analysis of Yusuf al-Qaradhawi and Nazaruddin Umar on Women’s Political Participation
This study examines how religious authority shapes gender discourse in contemporary Muslim society through a comparative analysis of Yusuf Al-Qaradhawi and Nazaruddin Umar's thoughts on women's political participation. Using a sociology of knowledge framework integrated with Bourdieu's field theory and Giddens' structuration theory, this study answers three questions: how is epistemic authority built in different field positions, how do socio-religious structures shape intellectual production, and do different approaches contribute to the transformation of gender discourse? The analysis reveals three main findings. First, both scholars successfully established credible positions that enabled women's eligibility to run for president through contrasting strategies: Al-Qaradhawi accumulated orthodox reformist capital in the field of transnational scholars, enabling broad acceptance while setting conditions (Islamic dress, family priorities, husband's permission); Umar developed a comprehensive gender hermeneutics at the boundaries of academia and government, enabling unconditional participation based solely on competence. Second, field positions tangibly shape interpretive possibilities; Al-Qaradhawi's ulama habitus produces incremental modifications, while Umar's academic-modern habitus enables radical hermeneutic interventions, yet both demonstrate reflective agency in negotiating patriarchal structures. Third, both approaches contribute complementarily but incompletely to transformation: Al-Qaradhawi achieves broader acceptance through moderate reformism; Umar offers a stronger theological foundation through the principle of equality. Both maintain skepticism toward classical caliphate, indicating uneven transformation across institutional domains. The integration of Bourdieusian and Giddensian frameworks explains how discourse operates simultaneously as a mechanism of structural reproduction and a site of transformative possibility. This study concludes that religious knowledge functions as a socially embedded practice, facilitating partial rather than total transformation of patriarchal structures.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aulia Kamal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Religious Diplomacy and Child Marriage: The Role of Transnational Faith Based Institutions
This study examines the role of religious diplomacy in addressing child marriage by analyzing the strategies of three transnational religious institutions: the Holy See, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the World Council of Churches. Using a systematic literature review method, 1,656 articles from the Scopus database were screened and analyzed through content and comparative analysis. The research investigates how these institutions influence the formation of international norms on child protection. Findings show that the Holy See utilizes formal moral diplomacy rooted in conservative family values, the World Council of Churches employs progressive campaigns grounded in gender justice and grassroots networks, while the Organization of Islamic Cooperation remains passive due to internal legal and political fragmentation. Key differentiators in effectiveness include theological flexibility, institutional authority, digital engagement, and commitment to international child rights frameworks. The study concludes that religious institutions can function as norm entrepreneurs shaping global child protection discourse. It highlights the need for inclusive, faith-based advocacy aligned with universal human rights, and recommends further research on collaborative efforts between religious actors and states. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of how religious diplomacy intersects with global justice, especially in contested moral arenas like child marriage
Copyright (c) 2026 Fathan Rafiqi, Muhammad Fajhriyadi Hastira, Ali Maksum https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Acehnese Sufism: The Transformation of Islamic Spirituality and Social Identity from the Classical to the Contemporary Era
This study examines the transformation of Acehnese Sufism as an expression of Islamic spirituality and a foundation of social identity from the classical to the contemporary era. Aceh, known as the Veranda of Mecca, possesses a distinctive and deeply rooted Sufi tradition within the history of Islam in the Malay Archipelago. The research aims to explore how Sufi teachings and practices in Aceh have evolved, adapted, and contributed to shaping the region’s socio-political and cultural dynamics. Employing a historical-phenomenological approach, this study investigates the works of classical Sufi figures such as Hamzah Fansuri, Syamsuddin al-Sumatrani, and Abd al-Ra’uf al-Sinkili, as well as the changing role of Sufism during the colonial, post-independence, and digital eras. The findings reveal that Acehnese Sufism has transformed from contemplative spirituality into an engaged spirituality (sufisme engagé), actively participating in political resistance, post-conflict reconstruction, and digital religious movements. This revitalization demonstrates that Acehnese Sufism serves not only as a religious heritage but also as a dynamic source of moral and social identity amid the challenges of modernity. The study contributes to the broader discourse on Islam Nusantara by offering new insights into the integration of spiritual and social dimensions in the development of Islam in Aceh.
Copyright (c) 2025 Damanhuri Basyir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Validity of the Word of God in the Bible According to Karl Barth: An Analytical Study
This study discusses the background of the theological polemic concerning the authority of the Bible, which is simultaneously viewed as the highest divinely inspired text and a human document containing internal contradictions and historical inconsistencies. This study aims to analyse the influential perspective of Swiss theologian Karl Barth as a resolution to this tension. Its main objectives are to investigate Barth's conceptualisation of the polemic surrounding biblical truth and to examine his critique of biblical inerrancy. This study uses a qualitative method with a theological approach, conducting a systematic literature review of Barth's major works, academic journals, and related documentation. The results show that Barth affirms the Bible not as the perfect and direct Word of God, but as a fallible human ‘witness’ to the true Word, Jesus Christ. This study concludes that Barth's position avoids rejecting the Bible by affirming that the text becomes the Word of God dynamically through divine-human encounters, rather than having static inerrancy. The specific theological contribution of this research, in addition to the existing scholarship, is the articulation of Barth's dialectical framework as a powerful ‘third way’ that transcends the impasse between fundamentalist literalism and liberal revisionism, thereby promoting a coherent understanding of the sacredness of scripture in contemporary Christianity
Copyright (c) 2026 Asep Awaludin, M. Kharis Majid, Churriyah Churriyah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Contribution of Islamic Religious Leaders to the Spiritual and Social Life of the Community in Ledong Timur Village
This study aims to analyze the contribution of Islamic religious leaders in improving the spiritual and social life of the community in Ledong Timur Village, Aek Ledong District, Asahan Regency. The research employed a qualitative case study approach, using in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. Twelve informants were selected through purposive sampling, including religious leaders, village officials, non-formal educators, and community members. Data were thematically analyzed through reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing, and validated by triangulation and member-checking. The findings indicate that religious leaders play a crucial role in strengthening community spirituality through regular study sessions, worship guidance, and youth moral development. In the social sphere, they contribute through mutual cooperation, conflict mediation, and fundraising for the poor. These results highlight the role of religious leaders as educators, mediators, and social mobilizers who strengthen cohesion in rural communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 M. Tondi Namora Siregar, Maulana Andi Surya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Religious Pluralism and Tolerance in Sibolga: Challenges and Solutions in a Multicultural Society
Sibolga is a coastal city in Indonesia characterized by high ethnic and religious diversity, shaped by a long history of trade, migration, and cultural exchange. This study aims to examine how religious pluralism is managed and the challenges of tolerance in a multicultural society. Using a qualitative method through literature review and interviews, the research identifies two main realities: the potential for harmony through values of mutual cooperation, deliberation, and the local motto “berbilang kaum, satu tujuan” (“many groups, one goal”), as well as vulnerabilities caused by issues of ethnicity and religion (SARA), radicalism, economic inequality, and the politicization of religion. The findings highlight four strategies for strengthening tolerance: multicultural education, structured interfaith dialogue, the role of local leaders as mediators, and the revitalization of cultural values. The novelty of this research lies in its emphasis on solutions grounded in the social practices of Sibolga’s community, making it an adaptive model with potential for replication in other multicultural regions of Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nanda Sekti Prayetno, Ira Novita Sari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Inheritance Rights of Wives and Children in Siri Marriages: Community Perspectives and Legal Implications in Silandoyung Village
This study investigates the inheritance rights of wives and children in unregistered (siri) marriages within the community of Silandoyung Village, Silau Kahean District, Simalungun Regency. Using an empirical socio-legal approach, the research combines field interviews with village officials, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and affected families, alongside a normative analysis of Islamic law, the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI), and Indonesian positive law. The findings reveal that the community acknowledges inheritance rights for wives and children from siri marriages based on religious values and customary norms, despite the absence of state recognition due to the lack of official marriage registration. This discrepancy creates potential inheritance disputes, reflecting a legal tension between religious-customary legitimacy and state law. From the perspective of Islamic law, siri marriages are valid if their pillars are fulfilled, granting wives and children inheritance rights; however, under Indonesian positive law, registration is mandatory for legal recognition. The study concludes that marriage registration is not merely an administrative formality but a crucial mechanism to harmonize state law with local wisdom, thereby ensuring legal protection and justice for women and children in siri marriages.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nurliana, Ibnu Radwan Siddiq T https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Social Dynamics of Campus Life Among Non-Muslim Students at Teuku Umar University, Meulaboh, Aceh
This study aims to explore the dynamics of campus life for non-Muslim students at Teuku Umar University (UTU). This study focuses on two main aspects, namely the challenges faced by non-Muslim students and the support available from the institution. This research uses a qualitative research method with a phenomenological approach, which aims to understand and describe the phenomena experienced by the research subjects. The data collection techniques used were in-depth interviews. The main informants are non-Muslim students who are studying and employees in the academic department and student affairs at UTU. The findings of this study identify that non-Muslim students at UTU face various challenges. The challenges faced in social interaction are differences in social and cultural norms, limitations in access and facilities for worship, and the existence of negative stigma. In social integration, non-Muslim students face challenges in the process of adjusting to the academic environment. Related to the difficulties faced by non-Muslim students, the campus strives to provide support in the form of providing services in the religious aspect, access and equality, holding inclusive social activities, and support from the academic community. It is hoped that the results of this research can be used as study material to create a responsive and inclusive campus.
Copyright (c) 2025 Reni Kumalasari, Mirza Adia Nova, Muhammad Faisal, Baihaqi Baihaqi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Islamic Symbolism and Cultural Integration in The Sekaten Ceremony in Yogyakarta
The Sekaten ceremony in Yogyakarta has been preserved for centuries as part of the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth. This study analyzes how three central rituals of the Sekaten, namely Miyos Gongso, Miyos Dalem, and Grebeg Mulud, function as symbolic media for transmitting Islamic devotion, ethical guidance, and communal solidarity through Javanese cultural forms. The research applies a qualitative descriptive approach with a phenomenological and symbolic framework. Data are based on textual and historical sources that document Islamic acculturation and ritual practice. The analysis employs hermeneutic interpretation supported by triangulation of data and theory as well as interpretative phenomenological analysis to strengthen credibility and depth of interpretation. The findings show that Miyos Gongso conveys Islamic teachings through gendhing compositions that emphasize sincerity, repentance, and purity while remaining embedded in Javanese musical aesthetics. Miyos Dalem presents the Prophet’s biography as a form of ritual pedagogy that promotes ethical emulation and parallels the manaqib tradition. Grebeg Mulud culminates the celebration with gunungan offerings that express gratitude to God, dramatize life’s struggles, and reinforce communal solidarity through shared participation. The study demonstrates that the spread of Islam in Java was achieved not by rejecting existing traditions but by reinterpreting them symbolically. The Sekaten illustrates how Islamic values were embedded in cultural practices, producing a synthesis that remains socially persuasive and spiritually meaningful. This case contributes to scholarship on religion and culture by showing how faith becomes localized through cultural engagement and symbolic negotiation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rizvan Falah Kamil, Jarman Arroisi, Henri Shalahudin, Khasib Amrullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Ecological Spirituality Catechesis Based on Shared Christian Praxis for Catholic Youth in Southeast Aceh
Faced with the deforestation crisis in Southeast Aceh, with the rate of forest loss reaching ±5,000 hectares/year based on KLHK data in 2024, and the phenomenon of ecological faith dissociation among Catholic Youth (OMK), this research develops an ecological catechesis model based on Shared Christian Praxis (SCP). This model is designed to transform OMK into agents of environmental conservation while overcoming the limitations of conventional catechesis, which is monologic and abstract. By applying Martin Heidegger's (1962) hermeneutic phenomenological method, data were collected through in-depth interviews (31 OMK and 14 community and church leaders), participatory observation of ecological catechesis and reforestation activities, and document study in Southeast Aceh (April-June 2025). The findings prove that (1) the SCP model succeeded in increasing the ecological awareness of 72% of OMK participants through spiritual transformation that interpreted “planting trees as a liturgy of life”; (2) the integration of Laudato Si' teachings with the local wisdom of Adat bak Poe Teumeureuhom strengthened context-based ecological identity; and (3) real action commitments were manifested in reforestation participation (80%) and reduction of single-use plastics (65%). Key recommendations include the adoption of an integrated catechesis module, the church and government, and advocacy for an “ecological refugee” policy based on the Vatican document (POCDP). Theologically, this research affirms the ecological crisis as a path of holiness while making a significant contribution to the development of practical theology, particularly in building a participatory, contextual, and action-oriented ecological catechesis paradigm as a manifestation of authentic faith.
Margareth Santa Hutabarat Santa Hutabarat
Elisabeth Endang Br Sitorus Endang Br Sitorus
Copyright (c) 2025 Bere Paulus Halek, Margareth Santa Hutabarat Santa Hutabarat, Elisabeth Endang Br Sitorus Endang Br Sitorus, Bima Salomo Silalahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Shared Christian Praxis Catechesis as a Catalyst for Strengthening Relationships in the Post-Marriage Period of 0–10 Years
This study aims to identify the challenges faced by Catholic couples in building marital relationships in the early years (0–10) and formulate a new catechetical model based on “Shared Christian Praxis” (SCP) to strengthen couples' love relationships. How can catechesis transition from a limited preparation model to a sustainable accompaniment model that is responsive to the specific challenges of young couples? The method used was a hermeneutic phenomenological approach, with in-depth interviews with 17 Catholic couples in Santo Damian Lau Baleng Parish, Archdiocese of Medan, as well as participatory observation and documentation study. The findings show that couples face various challenges, including economic problems, poor communication, and a lack of pastoral assistance from the Church. Despite this, couples show good resilience skills by integrating spiritual and practical aspects into their daily lives. High expectations for the Church's role in sustainable mentoring were expressed by informants, who wanted a more systematic and relevant program. This study recommends the development of a holistic and sustainable mentoring program, as well as the establishment of a community support network to assist young Catholic couples in facing the challenges of marriage. Thus, SCP-based catechesis is expected to bridge the gap between the Church's teachings and the experiences of young Catholic couples
Copyright (c) 2025 Paulinus Tibo, Elisa Haertanti Nadeak, Ayu Suryani Sitanggang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS): Examining the Origins of Trauma in Religious Practice and Pathways to Recovery
Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) has gained increasing scholarly and clinical attention as reports of psychological and spiritual distress linked to religious environments emerge across diverse contexts worldwide. Introduced by Marlene Winell, RTS refers to symptoms such as guilt, shame, fear of divine punishment, anxiety, and depression that persist beyond the individual’s departure from a religious community. This study seeks to examine the root causes of RTS through a qualitative library research approach, drawing on Winell’s work and recent studies within the past five years. Findings suggest that trauma is more often generated by the interpretation and enforcement of doctrine rather than by religious teachings themselves. Four major contributing factors were identified: pathological altruism, spiritual abuse, fear-inducing dogmatism, and exclusive community pressure. By distinguishing religion as a value system from harmful practices, this study contributes theoretically to the conceptual understanding of RTS and practically to therapeutic, educational, and communal strategies for creating spiritually safe environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muammar Iqbal Ma'rief, Relung Fajar Sukmawati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Strengthening Religious Moderation among Muslim Converts through Participatory Action Research: A Case Study in Aceh, Indonesia
Religious moderation is a vital foundation for maintaining social harmony in Aceh, particularly among Muslim converts who often struggle with religious and social adaptation. This study aims to describe how converts understand and practice moderation, to explore mentoring strategies carried out by the Aceh Da’wah Council (DDA) through a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, and to assess the changes in attitudes and social interactions that occurred during the program. The mentoring program was implemented over eight weeks (October–December 2024) with 35 participants, including DDA leaders and converts from different districts. Activities were organized into three stages: education and socialization, focus group discussions, and monitoring and evaluation. Data were collected through FGDs, semi-structured interviews, and participant observation, then analyzed qualitatively through data organization, coding, summarizing, and interpretation, with triangulation and member checking applied to strengthen credibility. The study found clear improvements in both the understanding and practice of religious moderation values. Converts demonstrated greater openness, respect for diversity, avoidance of extreme attitudes, and more active participation in community life. At the same time, the program reinforced the institutional role of the DDA, enhancing its capacity to provide sustained guidance for converts. The PAR approach proved relevant for fostering moderate religious attitudes among Muslim converts in Aceh by integrating Indonesia’s nine values of moderation into daily practice. While limited to the DDA setting, the study offers evidence that community-based mentoring can serve as a practical model for religious institutions and policymakers seeking to strengthen moderation and social harmony in comparable contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maimun Abdurrahman Amin, Salman Salman, Dede Fualdi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Strategies and Challenges of Religious Moderation in Sustaining Social Harmony Amid Globalization
This article discusses the importance of religious moderation as a strategy for building and maintaining social harmony amidst the increasingly complex dynamics of globalization. Globalization opens up space for cross-cultural and interfaith interaction, but it also increases the potential for conflict due to differences in perspectives and identities. This study employs a qualitative-descriptive approach with library research as the main method. Data were collected through a review of various relevant literature sources, including scholarly journal articles, books, policy documents, and religious texts related to issues of religious moderation, pluralism, and social harmony. The analysis focuses on the challenges, strategies, and effective implementation of religious moderation in the era of globalization. The findings indicate that religious moderation plays a vital role in mitigating potential conflicts, strengthening shared values, and shaping an inclusive and respectful society. Key strategies identified include the roles of religious and community leaders, inclusive education, interfaith dialogue, government policy support, and the use of digital media as a means to disseminate values of tolerance. The study also finds that obstacles such as fanaticism, radicalism, and the influence of extreme ideologies pose significant challenges to the implementation of religious moderation. Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, religious moderation can serve as a crucial pillar in strengthening social cohesion in multicultural societies in this global era.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Nurkholish https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Digital Da’wah Strategies for Moderate Islamic Communication: A Content Analysis of Muhammadiyah East Java’s Online Platforms
This study examines how Muhammadiyah East Java advances progressive, moderate Islamic communication through three official portals, PWMU.co, Klikmu.co, and Majelistabligh.id. We conducted a qualitative content analysis of twelve purposively selected articles published between January 2022 and July 2024, complemented by three semi-structured interviews with editorial staff. The Mediatization of Religion framework provided a lens to trace adaptations to digital media logics, while Uses and Gratifications served as an interpretive lens rather than a formal coding dimension. A codebook defined three categories: (1) Moderation and Wasathiyah, (2) Progressive Islam and Muhammadiyah ideology, and (3) Religion–Science integration. Articles were coded by a primary researcher, with a limited secondary check on a subset; no formal inter-rater reliability was conducted. Findings indicate a preliminary pattern in the use of moderation and progressive frames across platforms, with PWMU.co emphasizing analytical organizational discourse, Klikmu.co prioritizing concise, shareable pieces, and Majelistabligh.id focusing on moderation and deradicalization materials. Religion–Science integration appeared less frequently. Editorial testimonies suggest perceived audience interest in moderation-oriented content, although these indicators were self-reported rather than analytics-based. The study offers preliminary evidence of coordinated platform differentiation that maintains ideological coherence within a regional Islamic organization. Limitations include small sample size, confirmatory sampling, and restricted reliability testing, which constrain generalizability and underscore the need for larger comparative studies that incorporate audience analytics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Andrey Anto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Strengthening Religious Harmony through the Principle of the Middle Way in Indonesian Buddhism
This research aims to examine the principles of moderation in Buddhism and their application in the context of inter-religious harmony in Indonesia. The methodology used in this research is a religious approach using the Library Research method, included in the qualitative research category which collects data from primary and secondary sources. The analysis carried out is descriptive analytical, aiming to interpret existing conditions. The findings of this research indicate that Buddhist teachings, which emphasize universal love, dialogue, deliberation, and the concept of the middle way, are a very important foundation for creating religious harmony. This concept firmly rejects extremism and encourages transformation towards salvation through the practice of simplicity. However, there are significant challenges in implementing moderation in inter-religious dialogue, such as reluctance from some religious groups, emotional conflicts, and limitations in verbal communication. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to non-verbal aspects of communication and involve all parties to create an environment conducive to constructive dialogue. With sustainable understanding and practice, it is hoped that harmony and peace can be built amidst the diversity of religions and beliefs
Copyright (c) 2025 Hendi Supriatna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Umrah Trends in Society: Influencer, Media and the Way to Construct Between Worship and Religious Tourism
Umrah, which is a form of worship in Islam, has changed practice and meaning in modern society. Currently, modern society interprets Umrah not only as worship but also as religious tourism and places Umrah as a lifestyle practice. This article discusses the trend of Umrah plus tourism in modern society, with a focus on social media and influencers in framing the perspective of society and encouraging people to perform Umrah. Mass media such as Instagram and TikTok play an important role in promoting Umrah travel, both through advertisements, and testimonials from pilgrims who describe the spirituality of the Umrah journey. In addition, influencers or even artists also play an important role in the Umrah trend in modern society, where their reviews and posts about certain Umrah travel will attract people's interest in doing the same. A qualitative approach is used as a method in analyzing content and public perceptions of Umrah as worship and religious tourism. The results of this study show that the role of social media and influencers is not only limited to promotion but also as agents of change in shaping the perception of modern society regarding the meaning of Umrah
Copyright (c) 2025 Fathayatul Husna, Lilis Sariyanti