Hikmah Studies
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): March 2026

ISLAM AND MULTICULTURALISM RELIGION AHMAD SYAFI'I MA'ARIF'S PERSPECTIVE AND ITS RELEVANCE IN THE INDONESIAN CONTEXT

yonaldo Efendi (UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Religious diversity in Indonesia is an inevitable social reality. Although the value of tolerance has become part of the foundation of the state, the practice of intolerance and discrimination between religious communities is still common. This research aims to explain the background of Ahmad Syafii Maarif's thought, explain the relationship between Islam and multiculturalism, and how it is relevant in the Indonesian context. This research uses a qualitative approach through literature study, by analyzing the works of Syafi'i Ma'arif, among others; Islam in the framework of Indonesia and humanity, identity politics and the future of our pluralism, and seeking authenticity in the dynamics of the times. The results of the study show that Buya Syafii's thinking is very contextual with the reality of Indonesia. In Shafi'i Ma'arif's view, Islam is a religion that upholds human values, justice, and respect for differences. He rejected religious exclusivism and emphasized that Islam should be a moral force in strengthening social cohesion. He views that Islamic values and the spirit of nationality can go hand in hand in building a plural society that is just and peaceful. The concept of humanist Islam and multicultural education offered by Shafi'i Ma'arif can be an alternative in facing the challenges of intolerance and radicalism. Thus, Ahmad Syafi'i Ma'arif's thought is not only theoretical, but also offers a practical approach in caring for diversity and strengthening unity in the midst of differences.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

hikmahstudies

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Other

Description

Hikmah Studies: Journal of Religion, Narrative, and Thought publishes original research and critical scholarship on religion, textual and narrative traditions, and intellectual thought within Islamic and broader religious studies. The journal emphasizes interdisciplinary and contextual approaches ...