Journal of Islamic and Occidental Studies (JIOS)
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024): Journal of Islamic and Occidental Studies

Religious Plurality and Pluralism in Indonesia: Western Influence on Liberal Muslim Intellectuals

Mahmuluddin, Mahmuluddin (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
23 Dec 2024

Abstract

This research explores the critical distinction between religious pluralism and religious plurality within Islamic thought, addressing a common misconception among contemporary Muslim intellectuals influenced by Western ideologies. The study employs a qualitative methodology that includes a historical analysis of the emergence of religious pluralism during the European Reformation, an epistemological evaluation of hermeneutics in interpreting Islamic texts, and a critique of the adoption of Western pluralist frameworks by Indonesian Muslim intellectuals. The research showed that religious pluralism, understood as the acceptance of all religions as equally valid, is derived from a Western context and is at odds with Islamic teachings, which recognise religious plurality but maintain the exclusivity of Islam as the final revelation. The research highlights the Indonesian Ulema Council's rejection of religious pluralism while advocating tolerance. In addition to clarifying misconceptions about Islamic perspectives on religious diversity, the study highlighted the need to distinguish between acceptance of plurality and endorsement of pluralism, thereby contributing to more informed interfaith dialogue and understanding. Ultimately, the research improved the representation of Islamic thought in academic and public discussions and to encourage a more nuanced appreciation of its theological underpinnings regarding religious diversity.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jios

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Social Sciences Other

Description

Journal of Islamic and Occidental Studies (JIOS) is published by Centre for Islamic and Occidental Studies, University of Darussalam Gontor twice a year in June and December on the development of Islamic and Occidental Studies. Editors accept scientific articles (especially qualitative study) in ...