al-Afkar, Journal For Islamic Studies
Vol. 9 No. 2 (2026)

Respecting the Flag from an Islamic Perspective and State Regulations in Indonesia

Farida Roihanati (Sekolah Tinggi Islam Al-Mukmin, Indonesia)
Husna Maulida Hasanah (Sekolah Tinggi Islam Al-Mukmin, Indonesia)
Dayntikha Arlinie Soza (Sekolah Tinggi Islam Al-Mukmin, Indonesia)
Shofiya Muthmainna (Sekolah Tinggi Islam Al-Mukmin, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Apr 2026

Abstract

This research examines the view that saluting the Indonesian flag, which does not follow Islamic law, constitutes shirk (associating others with God). Although flag salutation has symbolized national unity since 1945, some modernist and Islamist groups consider it shirk. Islamic views on flag salutation are divided: the permissive perspective treats it as nationalism and patriotism, not shirk, if it is not seen as worship; the critical view equates it to idolatry, which belongs solely to Allah; and the moderate stance allows it when intended as nationalism, emphasizing intent and context. Using a literature review, the study explores historical, legal, and religious aspects of flag salutation and its societal effects. Despite differing opinions among scholars, the Indonesian government enforces flag salutation under Law No. 24 of 2009. The study concludes that flag salutation, as a patriotic act, aligns with Islamic values, promoting unity and national integration.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Afkar_Journal

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is published by Association of Secondment Lecturers (Asosiasi Dosen DPK) UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Indonesia. Focus of al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is on publishing original empirical research articles and theoretical reviews of Islamic Studies, ...