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This article examines the relationship between Islamic politics and democracy in contemporary Indonesia. As the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, Indonesia presents a distinctive dynamic in the interaction between Islamic values and modern democratic systems. This study aims to analyze how Islamic political actors, including political parties and religious organizations, interact with and adapt to democratic practices in the post-Reform era. The research employs a qualitative method through a literature review of Indonesian academic journals published within the last five years. The findings indicate that Islamic politics in Indonesia is plural and dynamic, showing an adaptive tendency toward democratic principles. Islamic values such as deliberation (shura), justice, and equality are considered compatible with democratic ideals. However, Islamic politics also faces contemporary challenges, including the politicization of religion, identity politics, and social polarization. The article concludes that the relationship between Islamic politics and democracy in Indonesia is dynamic and largely adaptive within the framework of the Pancasila state.

This study discusses the judge’s considerations in granting permission for polygamy to a husband who had committed adultery, as stated in the Religious Court Decision of Tanjung Karang Number: 737/Pdt.G/2024/PA.Tnk. Generally, Law No. 1 of 1974 in conjunction with Law No. 16 of 2019 on Marriage upholds the principle of monogamy but allows polygamy under certain conditions with court approval. This case is particularly interesting because the court granted permission for polygamy to a husband who was proven to have engaged in an affair and committed adultery resulting in a child born out of wedlock. The study aims to identify the legal considerations of the judge and the legal implications regarding the marriage and joint property. The research employs an applied normative legal method with a qualitative approach, using primary data from interviews and secondary data from legislation and legal literature. The results show that the judge considered granting permission for polygamy as a means of legalizing the existing relationship to maintain public morality and prevent continuous sinful behavior, although it conflicts with moral values. Legally, the second wife has no rights over the joint property acquired before the polygamous marriage, as stipulated in Article 65 paragraph (1) letter b of the Marriage Law

This study discusses the judge’s considerations in granting child custody of a non-mumayyiz (underage) child to the biological father in the Religious Court Decision of Tanjung Karang Number: 1379/Pdt.G/2024/PA.Tnk. Generally, according to Islamic law and the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI), custody of a non-mumayyiz child is granted to the biological mother. However, in this case, the panel of judges decided to grant custody to the biological father. The purpose of this research is to identify the legal reasoning behind the judge’s decision and the legal implications of such a ruling. The study employs a normative juridical method with a descriptive-analytical approach, supported by primary data obtained through interviews and secondary data from legislation and legal literature. The results show that the judge’s consideration was based on the best interest of the child principle, as the mother had remarried a non-Muslim man and converted to another religion, which made her ineligible to be the custodian under Islamic law. The legal implication of this decision reinforces the authority of judges to interpret hadhanah provisions contextually, ensuring the protection of the child’s rights and supporting their growth in accordance with religious teachings and prevailing social norms.

This study examines Banten Lama as a political symbol that shapes regional identity in Banten Province. As the former center of the Banten Sultanate from the 16th to the 18th century, the site holds not only historical and religious significance but also functions as a symbolic space influencing political legitimacy and the construction of collective identity in contemporary Banten society. Using a qualitative approach with a case study design, this research analyzes how local government, political elites, and communities negotiate the symbolic meanings of Banten Lama through ritual practices, public discourse, and revitalization policies. Data were collected through literature review, non-participatory observation, visual documentation, and examination of policy documents. The findings reveal that Banten Lama operates as a symbolic arena that intertwines historical narratives, Islamic spirituality, and political interests. The government employs symbols of the former sultanate to construct moral legitimacy and a religious political image, while local communities interpret Banten Lama as a spiritual space and a source of economic livelihood. Although the use of historical symbols strengthens regional identity, it also gives rise to symbolic politics that often dominate public space without being accompanied by substantive policy outcomes. This study concludes that the governance of Banten Lama requires participatory and culturally grounded approaches to ensure the sustainable preservation of its historical and social values.

This study delves into the philosophical foundations of natural law, contrasting the irrational theories of Thomas Aquinas with the rational perspectives of Hugo Grotius and Immanuel Kant, examining their relevance within Indonesia’s deeply religious and pluralistic context. Aquinas argues that natural law is divinely ordained and serves as a universal moral guide, where law and morality are intrinsically linked. On the other hand, Grotius proposes that while natural law originates from divine will, human reason enables individuals to comprehend it, even without divine revelation. Kant’s philosophy shifts the focus to moral autonomy and the freedom of individuals, emphasizing that legitimate law must be based on principles of universal morality that respect human dignity. In the context of Indonesia, with its diverse religious landscape, integrating these philosophical ideas provides a balanced approach to the interaction between secular law, religious teachings, and moral values. The research adopts a juridical-normative methodology with a conceptual and legislative approach, analyzing secondary legal sources to explore how natural law influences Indonesia's legal system. The findings indicate that while Indonesia's legal system primarily follows positive law, it would benefit from incorporating the moral and spiritual aspects derived from natural law theory. The study concludes that Indonesia’s legal system can achieve a more substantive form of justice by integrating the principles of Aquinas, Grotius, and Kant, thus ensuring a more harmonious blend of legal certainty, moral integrity, and religious principles in the country’s laws.  

The phenomenon of the “Sandwich Generation” (SG) in Indonesia, where individuals of productive age (30-40 years old) bear a double financial burden—supporting the needs of their children and immediate family (furu') while also supporting their elderly parents (ushul)—has become a widespread social and financial challenge. This pressure, exacerbated by inadequate income and low financial literacy, forces 94% of SG respondents to set aside their personal interests. This dilemma calls for a clear Sharia analysis of the priority scale of financial support. This article aims to analyze the SG maintenance dilemma through the Qawa'id Fiqhiyyah (Fiqh Principles) framework to establish a hierarchy of financial obligations. The two main principles used are Al-Farḍu afḍalu mina an-Nafli (Absolute Obligation takes precedence over Sunnah) and Al-Wājib lā yutrak illā liwājibin (An Obligation cannot be abandoned except for another Obligation). Fiqh analysis shows that the resolution of priority conflicts is based on the classification of the legal status of the recipient of alms, distinguishing between absolute obligations (Adami rights, contractual) and conditional obligations (wajib zhanni, Allah's rights). Key findings establish Sharia priorities in conditions of limitation: Self, Wife and Children (Absolute Obligations), Parents (Conditional Obligations), Siblings/Relatives (Sunnah/Nafl). This priority is established to protect the nuclear family unit as the foundation of society, in line with Maqāṣid ash-Sharīʿah (Sharia Objectives).

The Great Mosque of Banten is a historical heritage that reflects cultural acculturation and the glory of Islam in the Indonesian archipelago. This study aims to analyze the forms of collaboration between the government, local communities, and site managers in preserving the Great Mosque of Banten using the Collaborative Governance theory by Ansell and Gash (2007). A descriptive qualitative approach was applied through interviews, field observations, and document studies conducted in the Great Mosque area. The findings reveal that collaboration among stakeholders has not yet reached optimal levels due to limited communication, trust gaps, and conflicting interests. Nevertheless, functional cooperation has emerged through joint activities in sanitation, security, and tour guide training. Based on the five indicators of the collaborative process, direct communication (face to face dialogue) and trust building remain major challenges, while shared understanding between government agencies, the foundation, and the community has begun to develop. This study highlights the importance of sustainable collaborative governance in preserving the religious, historical, and social values of the Great Mosque of Banten while supporting the welfare of the surrounding community.  

This study aims to analyze the meaning of interfaith marriage in the film Komang using Ferdinand de Saussure's semiotic theory. This theory emphasizes the relationship between signifier and signified as well as the concepts of langue and parole to explain the interaction between social systems and individual expression. The results of the analysis show that the visual, verbal, and symbolic signs in the film represent the clash between love and belief. Scenes such as the initial meeting at a cultural festival, family rejection, and symbolic marriage become a form of negotiation between social values and personal freedom. This film affirms that interfaith marriage in Indonesia can only be accepted through compromise with the religious norms of the majority, but still presents a message of tolerance through symbols of cultural harmony. Therefore, the film Komang is not just a romantic narrative, but a social reflection on the relationship between religion, culture, and love in a pluralistic society.

The development of Islamic political thought cannot be separated from the historical context and social dynamics surrounding it. One significant period that influenced the direction of this thought is the era of Western colonialism in the 19th to early 20th centuries. During this period, much of the Islamic world was under Western colonial rule, which had a profound impact on the social, political, and intellectual conditions of Muslims. Within the Muslim community itself, various internal issues related to religious understanding arose, causing difficulties in facing the dominance and hegemony of the West. Islamic political thought became one of the fields of study in political science, which is not only relevant today but also gained attention during the classical Islamic period. This study is highly significant, both in the development of knowledge and as a framework for political practice. Therefore, it is important to study Islamic political thought, as it provides deep insights into political dynamics and Islam’s contribution to shaping existing political systems, as well as offering perspectives that are useful in facing contemporary global challenges.

This study examines the concept of women's leadership from an Islamic and Catholic perspective and how religious values ​​influence the acceptance and legitimacy of women's leadership in the public sphere. Using a qualitative approach using a desk study method, this study analyzes religious texts, scientific literature, and case studies of the leadership of two Southeast Asian women: Megawati Soekarnoputri in Indonesia and Corazon Aquino in the Philippines. The results show that both Islam and Catholicism have complex histories and interpretations of women's roles in leadership. While conservative and patriarchal readings exist within both traditions, there is also interpretive space that allows women to emerge as leaders. The leadership of Megawati and Aquino demonstrates that women are capable of leading with distinctive styles rooted in values ​​of spirituality, morality, and service. Both demonstrate a non-confrontational yet effective leadership approach, which simultaneously opens up space for reinterpreting women's roles in religion and politics. Thus, women's leadership is not a deviation from religious teachings, but rather part of the socio-religious dynamic that demands inclusivity and equality.

This study examines the concept of women's leadership from an Islamic and Catholic perspective and how religious values ​​influence the acceptance and legitimacy of women's leadership in the public sphere. Using a qualitative approach using a desk study method, this study analyzes religious texts, scientific literature, and case studies of the leadership of two Southeast Asian women: Megawati Soekarnoputri in Indonesia and Corazon Aquino in the Philippines. The results show that both Islam and Catholicism have complex histories and interpretations of women's roles in leadership. While conservative and patriarchal readings exist within both traditions, there is also interpretive space that allows women to emerge as leaders. The leadership of Megawati and Aquino demonstrates that women are capable of leading with distinctive styles rooted in values ​​of spirituality, morality, and service. Both demonstrate a non-confrontational yet effective leadership approach, which simultaneously opens up space for reinterpreting women's roles in religion and politics. Thus, women's leadership is not a deviation from religious teachings, but rather part of the socio-religious dynamic that demands inclusivity and equality.

This study discusses the judge’s considerations in rejecting a marriage annulment lawsuit due to coercion, as stated in the Religious Court Decision of Tanjung Karang Number: 1109/Pdt.G/2023/PA.Tnk. The lawsuit was filed by a wife who claimed she was forced into marriage due to threats from her parents, thus requesting an annulment based on Article 27 paragraph (1) of Law Number 1 of 1974 on Marriage. However, the panel of judges rejected the claim. This research aims to examine the legal reasoning behind the judge’s rejection of the annulment and the legal consequences resulting from the decision. The study employs a normative and empirical legal approach with a descriptive qualitative method, using primary legal materials such as legislation and court rulings, as well as secondary data from legal literature and interviews. The results show that the judges rejected the claim because the alleged coercion was not proven to constitute an unlawful threat as defined by law, and the marriage was conducted validly according to legal and religious provisions. The legal implication of this rejection is that the marriage remains valid and binding, and all legal rights and obligations between husband and wife continue to apply.

Indonesia is a unitary state, has a lot of diversity that combines various nationalities, dialects, religions, and communities. Therefore, as a diverse nation, moderation in religion is needed so that there is no degenerate behavior that can divide a country. Internalization of religious values in a multicultural society is an effort to integrate religious values with cultural and religious diversity in society. The main purpose of this internalization is to increase tolerance, respect diversity, and form an inclusive religious culture. This study aims to discuss the internalization of religious moderation values in a multicultural society. This study uses a qualitative approach and data processing using descriptive-analytical methods. Data processing is used as a benchmark to find out how the internalization of religious moderation values in a multicultural society, then takes several sources from the Bantengan village community to be used as research objects, in order to answer the main research questions, including: 1) How is the process of conveying understanding the values of religious moderation in a multicultural society in Bantengan Village. 2) How is the negotiation process with the community regarding the values of religious moderation in a multicultural society in Bantengan Village. 3) -How is the implementation of the values of religious moderation in a multicultural society in Bantengan Village? From the results and discussion of this study, it shows that there are several ways that the Bantengan village community does to internalize the values of religious moderation in a multicultural society. This study concludes that internalization of the values of religious moderation in a multicultural society in Bantengan Village can be done in various ways. An important effort to internalize the values of religious moderation in a multicultural society is to make the Bantengan village community a harmonious society by strengthening tolerance between religious communities, and having a spirit of justice between communities.

This study aims to examine the strategic role of the Cieurih Community Health Center in increasing public awareness of healthy lifestyles, particularly in the Cipaku Sub-district. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, and documentation of program activities. The collected data were analyzed using three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions with verification to ensure validity. The analysis focuses on three main dimensions of the Health Center’s role: (1) Interpersonal Role, which involves direct interaction with the community to build trust, encourage participation, and foster behavioral change; (2) Informational Role, which encompasses the dissemination of accurate health information, educational campaigns, and correction of misinformation; and (3) Decisional Role, which relates to planning, implementing, and evaluating health programs in response to local needs.The findings reveal that the Cieurih Community Health Center has made significant contributions to raising awareness and promoting healthy living practices through these roles. Initiatives such as health counseling, mobile clinic services, and collaborative activities with community leaders have shown positive influence. However, the study also identifies persistent challenges, including low levels of community participation, insufficient financial and human resources, and the strong influence of traditional cultural practices and misinformation that hinder optimal outcomes. To address these obstacles, adaptive strategies are necessary. Recommendations include the development of personalized approaches tailored to the socio-cultural context, the use of innovative communication methods such as social media and visual storytelling, and the strengthening of cross-sectoral collaboration with educational institutions, religious leaders, and local government agencies. These measures are expected to enhance community engagement, improve the accuracy and reach of health information, and sustain the long-term impact of health promotion programs.

This research is motivated by the importance of understanding the niqab (face veil) as a religious symbol and an identity marker for Muslim women, which continues to spark public debate in Indonesia. The niqab is often viewed from various perspectives—religious, cultural, social, and political—making it a controversial topic. These differing viewpoints highlight the need for a deeper exploration of the meaning and practice of wearing the niqab, especially within Islamic higher education institutions. The study aims to examine both the normative and sociological aspects of niqab use among female students at Ma’had Al-Birr, Muhammadiyah University (Unismuh) Makassar. This institution is known for having a significant number of students who wear the niqab, each with different backgrounds and motivations, ranging from theological beliefs to personal convictions and environmental influences. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a field-based approach. It combines normative Islamic theological perspectives with sociological analysis, using data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that students perceive the niqab not merely as a religious obligation to cover one's aurat (parts of the body that should be concealed), but also as a symbol of piety, honor, obedience, and personal ijtihad (independent reasoning) in practicing Islamic teachings. An inclusive campus environment supports these students in engaging freely in both academic and social activities. However, challenges still arise, particularly in the form of stereotypes and perceptions of exclusivity that some individuals associate with niqab wearers. These misconceptions underscore the importance of cross-perspective understanding in addressing this phenomenon. This study is expected to contribute to the development of campus policies that support freedom of expression, uphold mutual respect, and promote a more inclusive, open, and tolerant atmosphere within Islamic higher education institutions—one that embraces the diversity of religious practices and encourages respectful coexistence.

Abstract, This research was conducted with the aim of exploring the legal reconstruction efforts based on the Maqasid al-Shari’ah perspective, as reflected in the decision issued by the Supreme Court, in order to provide a legal breakthrough in the distribution of inheritance through the concept of wasiat wajibah (compulsory will) for non-Muslim heirs. The difference in religious affiliation within family law gives rise to serious inheritance issues, as Islamic law strictly prohibits inheritance between people of different religions. In order to maintain national unity and integrity, the Supreme Court issued Decision Number 331 K/AG/2018, which grants the right to a wasiat wajibah to heirs who have converted out of Islam or are non-Muslims. This study is a normative juridical research that employs two legal approaches: the conceptual approach and the analytical approach. The data collection technique used to achieve the research objectives is library-based documentation study. The findings show that all judicial bodies in Indonesia must refer to Article 49, Articles 1 and 2 of the 1989 Law concerning legal provisions on litigation, management, and enforcement of civil litigation in inheritance cases. Furthermore, Qur’an Surah An-Nisa verse 141 and Hadiths from Al-Bukhari and Muslim explain that Islamic identity must be a determining factor for heirs, disregarding wills that are not valid under Islamic law. Based on the results, it can be concluded that a wasiat wajibah for apostate or non-Muslim heirs is treated not as an inheritance, but as a special bequest. According to the Maqasid al-Shari’ah, which serves as the foundation for achieving the objectives of Islamic law through its five core principles of protection, the concept of wasiat wajibah for non-Muslim heirs plays a crucial role in: preserving religion by fostering interfaith tolerance; preserving life by preventing familial conflict; preserving intellect by ensuring access to education for non-Muslim descendants; preserving lineage by recognizing the rights of children as biological heirs through inheritance; and preserving wealth by ensuring the rightful and responsible transfer of ownership of the deceased’s estate.    

Drawing on the participants' concrete lived experiences, this study explores how the processes of typification and we-relations shape the construction of meaning in everyday interactions. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and participant observation with four informants and one single caregiver, and analyzed descriptively texturally and structurally. The findings show that affective communication includes empathy, humor, and firm but authoritative correction that become the foundation for the formation of emotional bonds and a sense of “new family.” Holistic routines (praying in congregation, studying, social activities) facilitate the internalization of religious values, discipline, and independence, which in turn strengthen children's self-identity. The process of meaning construction does not only occur through words, but through daily practices that bring together the emotional, spiritual and social dimensions. These results recommend strengthening intersubjective communication training for caregivers in similar institutions to support the development of character and identity of orphans.

This study explores the integration of salafiyah (traditional Islamic) and modern curricula at Darul Amien Islamic Boarding School in Gembolo, Banyuwangi, in response to the challenges of Islamic education in the modern era. The research aims to describe the planning, implementation, and evaluation of curriculum integration in pesantren education management. Employing a qualitative approach with a case study method, data were collected through interviews, observation, and documentation. The findings reveal that the pesantren has successfully combined classical Islamic texts with formal school curricula into a unified system. The learning activities follow a structured level system, with regular evaluations conducted by school administrators. Challenges such as students' low motivation toward general subjects are addressed through personal mentoring and adaptive curriculum strategies. This integration improves the quality of graduates in both religious and societal competencies.

Modernization, a global phenomenon, significantly impacts religious life, challenging religions to maintain their relevance amidst rapid social changes. This study aims to examine how religion, particularly Islam, can transform without losing its traditional essence, and to map the dynamics between tradition and modernity in religious practice. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach and library research methods, data were collected through literature review and analyzed thematically.The findings reveal a tension between tradition, perceived as a sacred heritage, and modernity, often suspected of introducing secular values. However, modernization also offers opportunities for religion to adapt through innovative outreach and reinterpretation of teachings. It is found that reinterpretation of religious teachings is crucial for contextual relevance, refreshing the understanding of universal values without altering the core doctrines. Furthermore, religion is not merely an object of modernization but also a vital actor in driving just social transformation, serving as a corrective force and an agent for civilizational development.In conclusion, religious modernization is an interactive process demanding responses from religious communities. The reinterpretation of doctrines is key to religion's ongoing relevance, and the synergy between tradition and transformation allows religion to remain pertinent and a moral guide in the globalized era.  

This study examines interfaith marriage and its impact on family economic rights from the perspectives of Islamic law and positive law in Indonesia, with a case focus on Sumedang Regency. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research involved semi-structured interviews with both traditional and modern Islamic scholars, along with an analysis of religious texts and statutory regulations. The findings reveal that the majority of scholars reject interfaith marriage based on Sharia principles and Article 2(1) of Law No. 1 of 1974 on Marriage. Nevertheless, some couples pursue such unions through administrative religious conversion or overseas ceremonies to obtain legal recognition. These practices often result in legal ambiguity regarding economic rights within the family—such as inheritance, joint property, and financial support—and may lead to familial disputes. Additional social consequences include identity confusion among children, community stigma, and potential conflicts within extended families. The study underscores the strategic role of institutions like Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) and the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) in providing legal education and advocates the need for a responsive civil registration mechanism that acknowledges interfaith marriages while respecting Islamic legal principles. A contextual approach is proposed to bridge the tension between religious norms, legal certainty, and the protection of family economic rights.