GUS ZEIN: Moderasi Beragama dan Kearifan Lokal

Summary

The seminar at Pondok Pesantren Darussalam focused on the theme of religious moderation, a crucial contemporary issue. Keynote speaker Iwan Santoso highlighted the importance of wasathiyah (moderation) in Islam as a counter to extremism, rooted in Indonesia's diverse cultural and historical context. He emphasized that moderation promotes peaceful coexistence and cultural harmony, drawing from Indonesia's unique blend of Islamic teachings and local traditions. Santoso illustrated how historical figures like Walisongo shaped this approach, reinforcing that the future of religious dialogue relies on a deep understanding of both religious texts and cultural contexts.

Takeaways

• 😀 The seminar emphasizes the importance of religious moderation (wasathiyah) in addressing global ideological conflicts.
• 😀 Samuel Huntington's 'Clash of Civilizations' highlights the shift from political to cultural and religious conflicts, necessitating a moderate approach.
• 😀 Wasathiyah signifies a balanced approach to faith, avoiding extremes and promoting harmony within society.
• 😀 Indonesia's unique cultural context allows for the integration of local customs with Islamic teachings, exemplified by the practices of Walisongo.
• 😀 The roles of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah are pivotal in advocating for moderate Islam and fostering national unity.
• 😀 Historical decisions made by NU and Muhammadiyah prioritize consensus and harmony over rigid interpretations of Islam.
• 😀 The need for interfaith dialogue is crucial for establishing peace and inclusivity in a diverse society.
• 😀 Moderation is not only relevant in religious practices but also essential in political discourse and community relations.
• 😀 Local adaptations of religious practices showcase how Islam can thrive in diverse cultural settings without compromising core values.
• 😀 The ongoing campaign for religious moderation is vital for Indonesia's stability and can serve as a model for other nations facing similar issues.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the seminar discussed in the transcript?

The main theme of the seminar is the importance of 'moderation in religion' as a crucial issue being promoted by the government, particularly the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Indonesia.

Who is the primary speaker mentioned in the seminar?

The primary speaker mentioned in the seminar is Iwan Santoso.

What does 'wasathiyah' refer to in the context of the seminar?

'Wasathiyah' refers to the concept of moderation in religion, which emphasizes a balanced approach, avoiding extremism and excess.

Why is the concept of moderation in religion considered important for state life today?

Moderation in religion is considered important for state life today as it helps prevent horizontal conflicts in society, which have shifted from ideological and political roots to being based on civilization and cultural differences.

What historical context is provided regarding the need for religious moderation?

The historical context provided includes references to Samuel Huntington's 'Clash of Civilizations' and the post-Cold War era, indicating that conflicts have increasingly become based on cultural and civilizational grounds rather than just political ideologies.

How does the speaker differentiate between extremism and moderation?

The speaker differentiates between extremism and moderation by stating that extremism involves excessive behavior in religion, while moderation, or wasathiyah, involves a balanced and contextual approach to religious practices.

What role do traditional Islamic scholars and organizations like NU and Muhammadiyah play in promoting moderation?

Traditional Islamic scholars and organizations like NU (Nahdlatul Ulama) and Muhammadiyah play a crucial role in promoting moderation by advocating for principles that prioritize preventing harm and fostering inclusive dialogues within society.

What example is given to illustrate the concept of moderation in practical terms?

An example given is the practice of ablution (wudhu) in Islamic rituals, where moderation is practiced by using only the necessary amount of water, especially in times of scarcity.

How does the speaker view Indonesia's position on religious moderation compared to the Middle East?

The speaker views Indonesia as a model for religious moderation, suggesting that its approach and historical practices are considered benchmarks for moderate religious discourse, especially in contrast to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

What conclusion does the speaker draw about the future of religious moderation in Indonesia?

The speaker concludes that the continuation and promotion of religious moderation in Indonesia are essential for maintaining harmony and preventing conflicts in a diverse society, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and dialogue.