Religious Moderation and the Development of Multicultural Societies in Indonesia: A Normative-Islamic Legal Study
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Abstract
This study investigates the conceptualization and practical application of religious moderation within Indonesia's multicultural society, specifically through a normative-Islamic legal lens. Drawing upon primary Islamic legal sources (Qur’an, Hadith, classical fiqh) and contemporary Indonesian Islamic legal thought (Kompilasi Hukum Islam, ulama fatwas), alongside national legal frameworks (Pancasila), this research addresses the critical gap in existing literature, which predominantly focuses on sociological or educational perspectives. The analysis demonstrates that Islamic legal principles inherently support religious moderation, rooted in the Qur'anic concept of Ummatan Wasaṭan and the Prophetic tradition of coexistence as exemplified by the Medina Charter. While the Kompilasi Hukum Islam presents certain textual limitations, judicial interpretations and the contributions of major Islamic organizations like Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), Muhammadiyah, and Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI) actively adapt Islamic law to foster social harmony and inclusive citizenship (fiqh al-muwāṭanah). Despite challenges such as the politicization of religion and digital intolerance, opportunities exist in education, law enforcement, and interfaith cooperation to institutionalize moderation. This study concludes that religious moderation is not merely a theological ideal but a legally and institutionally grounded imperative that significantly strengthens fiqh al-muwāṭanah in Indonesia, aligning Islamic law with democratic multiculturalism.
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