EMPIRISMA: JURNAL PEMIKIRAN DAN KEBUDAYAAN ISLAM
Vol. 35 No. 2 (2026): Empirisma: Jurnal Pemikiran dan Kebudayaan Islam

Beyond Cultural Heritage: Local Culture As A Social Mechanism For Interfaith Coexistence In Mataraman Society

Feryani Umi Rosidah (UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya)
Himmatul Khoiroh (UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya)
Adinda Maharani (UIN Syekh Wasil Kediri)
Maula Safira Tohari (UIN Syekh Wasil Kediri)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Jul 2026

Abstract

This research examines the practice of culturally based interfaith coexistence in the Mataraman community in East Java. This study is motivated by the reality of religious diversity in Indonesia, this research focuses on the role of culture in interfaith coexistence in Mataraman, using qualitative methods from sociological and anthropological perspectives. Data collection techniques include interviews, observation, and documentation. Data analysis uses the Miles and Haberman model, namely data reduction, conclusion drawing, and data presentation. The results indicate that the local wisdom of the Mataraman community plays a significant role in building harmonious interfaith coexistence. Cultural values such as cooperation (gotong royong), tepo sliro (community service), and local traditions of village cleanliness, wayang (wayang), jamasan (traditional prayer), and jaranan (traditional Javanese dance) serve as a medium for a "dialogue of life." This enables interfaith interactions to take place inclusively and sustainably. From a symbolic perspective, these cultural practices function as systems of meaning that shape collective consciousness and strengthen social cohesion. Furthermore, cultural symbols such as the "Masgapur" (mosque, gate, and temple) road represent social integration rooted in tolerance and respect for diversity. The findings of this study reinforce and expand Hans Küng's theory of Global Ethics. While Küng emphasizes the importance of universal values such as humanity, solidarity, tolerance, and respect for others as the foundation of interfaith peace, this study shows that these values in Mataraman society are not built through theological debate, but rather are realized through local cultural practices such as cooperation, tepo seliro, wayang, and various shared traditions. Local culture serves as a medium for the actualization of global ethics that transform religious differences into social solidarity and sustainable harmony.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

empirisma

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities Social Sciences

Description

Focus The focus of this journal is to publish the results of research and thoughts on Islamic studies in the form of research articles and book reviews and thoughts. Scope since 2017 the journal focuses more on various dimensions of Islamic thoughts and cultures with the scope limited to the ...