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

Religious Moderation in Indonesia's Multicultural Society: A Conceptual and Social Analysis

Arna Saskia (Unknown)
Rahmad Hidayat (Unknown)
Jamilus (Unknown)
Kumaidi (Unknown)
Novita Jurniati (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
16 May 2026

Abstract

Indonesia is a country characterized by a high level of religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity, which necessitates a religious approach capable of maintaining social harmony and cohesion. Religious moderation has emerged as an essential concept in responding to such pluralism by emphasizing balance, tolerance, and justice in understanding and practicing religious teachings. This article aims to examine the concept of religious moderation, its foundations and underlying principles, its core values, objectives and urgency, forms of implementation, as well as the supporting and inhibiting factors within the Indonesian social context. This study employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method, analyzing scholarly books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and relevant policy documents. The findings indicate that religious moderation is grounded in strong theological, philosophical, and constitutional foundations and plays a strategic role in preventing conflict, strengthening humanitarian values, and maintaining national integration. The implementation of religious moderation requires sustained collaboration among the government, educational institutions, religious leaders, and society. Despite challenges such as radicalism, limited digital literacy, identity politics, and the lack of exemplary leadership, religious moderation remains a fundamental pillar in fostering a peaceful, just, and tolerant society in Indonesia.

Copyrights © 2026






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, ...