Research Article Review: Bridging Religious Polarization in the Archipelago

Indonesia, with its diversity of religions and beliefs, continues to face the complexity of religious dynamics that require deep understanding and wise approaches. In a dynamic religious landscape, religious groups interact, dialogue, and sometimes disagree in interpreting religious texts, which is not just a theological issue, but has significant implications for social cohesion and community harmony.

This article reviews the political understanding of religion in Indonesia, particularly the differences between mainstream groups, such as Nahdhatul Ulama (NU), and splinter groups, such as Khilafatul Muslimin. Research conducted by Nunung Khoiriyah and Kabir Al Fadly in the journal Dakwah: Journal of Da'wah and Social Studies in 2023, shows that these different approaches have the potential to cause polarization in society.

Textual vs. Contextual Approach

Khilafatul Muslimin has a textual approach that tends to be fanatical about religious texts, ignoring the developing social context. This can be seen from their attitude of trying to dominate reality with rigid interpretations of texts, for example in the issue of khilafah. In contrast, NU adopts a more flexible contextual approach, adapting its understanding to the social and cultural conditions of Indonesian society. This approach allows NU to respond to the challenges of the times more adaptively.

Intergroup Communication Dynamics

Intergroup communication plays an important role in easing tensions between the two parties. This research emphasizes that dialogue and compromise are necessary to find common ground between textualist and contextualist understandings. Through constructive communication, both groups can find common solutions to divisive issues.

The Importance of Semi-Textual Interpretation

The author suggests the need for a semi-textual interpretation that combines textual principles with the context of current reality. With this approach, understanding of religious texts can be applied relevantly in the Indonesian social context, thereby reducing the potential for conflict and increasing tolerance between groups.

In facing the challenges of religious politics in Indonesia, it is important for mainstream and splinter groups to establish good communication. Only in this way, polarization can be minimized and society can live in harmony despite differences in views. Open dialogue and adaptive interpretation will be the key to creating a more inclusive understanding in the Indonesian context.

(Rizkiyah Gustiana/Fauziah M./Dzihan Aufa Kilmi Firdausi)

Source of Journal Article

Research Title: Communication Between Mainstream Groups and Splinter Groups Regarding Religious Political Understanding (Textualist and Contextualist Perspectives)

Journal Publication: Journal of Da'wah: Journal of Da'wah and Community Studies 

Author : Nunung Khoiriyah and Kabir Al Fadly

Article Link: https://journal.uinjkt.ac.id/index.php/dakwah/article/view/36706

**Research Article Review is a review of research journal articles written by lecturers at UIN Jakarta that discuss current issues close to the community as recommendations or case studies on social phenomena.