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This study aims to develop a strategy for developing praise and worship services through a deeper biblical theology of Psalm 150, as a fundamental solution for congregational growth at YHS Eka Sinta Church in Kapuas Regency. The main premise of this study is based on the crucial disconnect between contemporary church music practices, which tend to be performative, and the essence of the doxology authoritatively contained in the text Scripture. By integrating descriptive qualitative methods and an exegetical biblical theology approach, this study explores the imperative meaning and poetic structure of Psalm 150 and then engages them in intercultural dialogue with the sociocultural context of local churches in Kalimantan. The results reveal that the biblical theology Psalm 150 emphasizes the totality of instrumental use and the universality of the subject of praise as an absolute reflection of God's sovereignty and might. Field findings indicate that the effectiveness of music services is often hampered by technical limitations and theological shallowness of liturgical ministers. This study concludes that healthy congregational growth, both in terms of spiritual quality and quantity, is rooted in the extent to which the church able to actualize biblical theological values ​​in expressions of praise that are relevant and resonate with the cultural background and local identity of its congregation. The resulting strategy offers a holistic ministry model, in which church music returns to its essential function as an instrument of faith transformation and a means of growing the Kingdom of God, adaptively yet faithful to the biblical text.

The phenomenon of infinite scrolling in digital media reflects a fundamental shift in how modern individuals experience spirituality in the digital era. The continuous flow of information creates new spaces for the search for meaning, including the human relationship with the Divine, while simultaneously introducing challenges in the form of constant distraction that disrupts deep reflection. This study aims to analyze how infinite scrolling contributes to a crisis of spiritual awareness and how digital technology functions as an ambivalent space between distraction and reflection. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a library research approach, using relevant academic literature and religious documents. The findings indicate that intensive digital engagement reduces opportunities for contemplation, weakens reflective capacity, and produces shallow and fragmented spiritual experiences. However, digital technology also provides broad access to spiritual resources that can be used constructively. This study concludes that the crisis of spiritual awareness in the digital era is influenced not only by individual factors but also by technological structures shaping human attention. Therefore, digital literacy that includes ethical and spiritual dimensions is essential to ensure technology supports the search for meaning.  

The use of hermeneutics in Qur'anic studies has long generated debate among Muslim scholars. Some view hermeneutics as a methodological tool that can bridge the historical distance between the revealed text and contemporary life, whereas others regard it as an epistemological threat that may weaken the authority of the Qur'an. This article aims to analyze the arguments of both proponents and critics and to identify possible areas of convergence. Using a descriptive-analytical approach and library research, this study examines relevant works by scholars who support and oppose the application of hermeneutics in Qur'anic interpretation. The findings show that proponents, such as Fazlur Rahman, Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd, and Mohammed Arkoun, argue that hermeneutics can enrich interpretive methods and help contextualize meaning. Conversely, critics, such as Adian Husaini and scholars who emphasize the authority of established tafsir traditions, argue that hermeneutics emerged from the problems of Biblical interpretation and therefore cannot be applied directly to the Qur'an, which is believed to retain its authenticity. The study concludes that the debate stems from different theological assumptions about text, revelation, and interpretation. It recommends the selective adaptation of hermeneutics as a supporting analytical tool, not as a replacement for the science of tafsir.

  Abstract.. The development of modernization in corn farming in Kalibareng Village, Patean District, Kendal Regency has the potential to cause the loss of traditional terms used by the farming community. This study aims to describe and analyze the lexicon of corn farming in Kalibareng Village, Patean District, Kendal Regency, and to reveal the lexical and contextual meaning contained therein. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with  field research and semantic studies as the main approach. Data were obtained through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation of corn farmers in Kalibareng Village. The results show that there are 44 lexicons divided into three categories, namely cultivation processes, agricultural tools, and agricultural materials. The lexical meaning in the lexicon refers to the basic meaning according to its referent, while the contextual meaning is influenced by the situation of use in agricultural activities. The contextual meanings found include process context, time context, and function context. This study shows that the corn farming lexicon not only functions as a communication tool, but also represents local knowledge, culture, and farming experiences of the Kalibareng Village community that have been passed down from generation to generation.

This study aims to analyze the religious and spiritual symbols represented in the film Titip Surat untuk Tuhan through Roland Barthes’ semiotic approach, focusing on the three levels of meaning: denotation, connotation, and myth. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method using semiotic analysis based on document studies of selected scenes, dialogues, and visual elements portraying religious values, prayer, sacrifice, patience, hope, gratitude, and trust in God. The findings reveal that symbols such as the mosque, mukena, sarong, prayer mat, the Qur’an, prayer activities, the post office as a medium for sending letters to God, and the calligraphy of “Allah” and “Prophet Muhammad” on the walls function not only as literal signs but also convey profound religious and spiritual connotations. These symbols further develop into myths that reinforce religious norms and cultural beliefs accepted as natural within society. The film successfully constructs a subtle yet powerful representation of faith by portraying a Muslim family that upholds devotion, moral values, patience, compassion, and an enduring relationship with God. Overall, the film demonstrates how religious symbols effectively communicate spiritual messages while strengthening viewers’ understanding of Islamic values through visual and narrative storytelling.

Sufism as a spiritual approach has a great potential to prevent mental health problems among Generation Z students at UIN Walisongo Semarang. This is because Sufism focuses on inner balance, self-awareness, and strengthening spiritual values that can be a source of psychological resilience. This study aims to investigate how Sufism practices such as dhikr, self-reflection, and spiritual guidance can help prevent mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety, and loneliness among Generation Z students. The method used in this study is a qualitative study with a phenomenological design. Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with students, observations of religious activities on campus, and focus group discussions, then analyzed thematically. Interviews were conducted with three students: Wilda Ismatus Sarifah (Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training), Sinta Wahdatul Khusna (Faculty of Tarbiyah of Social and Political Sciences), and Umi Fathonah (Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training). The study found that regular Sufism practice guided by experienced individuals helped students feel more meaningful, more socially connected, and develop coping strategies. This was associated with reduced symptoms of stress and anxiety, as well as improved well-being. The study recommends integrating Sufism-based spiritual programs into campus counseling services and character development activities. It also recommends training spiritual mentors and fostering collaboration between student welfare units and religious institutions on campus to support the mental health of young people.

Identity politics has become one of the most debated concepts in contemporary democratic discourse, yet its conceptual boundaries remain poorly defined in both academic and public conversations. This paper argues that three commonly conflated terms political identity, identity politics, and the politicization of identity carry fundamentally distinct meanings with divergent normative and practical consequences. Through a conceptual literature review, this study synthesizes theoretical frameworks and empirical findings to demonstrate that while political identity refers to an individual's self-positioning within a political community, and identity politics denotes collective action by marginalized groups seeking recognition, the politicization of identity is an elite-driven strategy of exploiting social group markers for political gain. This distinction matters because the conflation of these terms obscures how digital platforms  through filter bubble and echo chamber mechanisms  amplify identity-based polarization in Indonesia and beyond. The study finds that social media algorithms do not merely reflect pre-existing social divisions but actively intensify affective polarization by constructing homogeneous information environments that deepen inter-group animosity. The paper concludes with implications for digital citizenship and democratic resilience in Indonesia.

Within the framework of Islamic family law (fiqh munakahat), the issue of nusyuz plays a significant role, as it is closely related to maintaining harmony and stability in the marital relationship. Generally, nusyuz is often defined as a form of a wife’s disobedience toward her husband. However, Islamic jurisprudence acknowledges that nusyuz can also be committed by a husband if he fails to fulfill the rights, responsibilities, and obligations he owes to his wife, in accordance with the principles of Sharia. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the concept of nusyuz in the context of family life, from the perspective of fiqh munakahat. The discussion covers the meaning and characteristics of nusyuz, its legal basis in Islamic sources, the factors contributing to its emergence, its various manifestations in married life, its implications for family relationships, and existing methods for addressing this issue. This study employs a literature review method supported by a descriptive qualitative approach, drawing on relevant literature from classical and contemporary Islamic legal sources. The results indicate that resolving issues of nusyuz should be approached through a gradual and constructive process, including counseling, dialogue, mediation, consultation, and reconciliation. These steps aim to restore mutual understanding and strengthen family unity. Therefore, raising awareness of each spouse’s rights and obligations is crucial to preventing nusyuz and creating a household filled with peace, love, mutual respect, and intimacy.

This study aimed to increase students’ learning activeness and reduce boredom in Indonesian language lessons through the implementation of the Project Based Learning (PjBL) model for first-grade students at MI Ma’arif NU Bebekan. The research was conducted using an observation method during the learning process. The subjects of this study were first-grade students of MI Ma’arif NU Bebekan. Data were collected through observations of students’ activities, participation in learning, enthusiasm in completing projects, and responses during Indonesian language lessons. The observation results showed that the implementation of Project Based Learning had a positive impact on the learning process. Before the implementation of this model, some students appeared less active, easily bored, and less involved in classroom activities. After learning was carried out through project-based activities related to Indonesian language materials, students became more interested in participating in lessons, more confident in asking and answering questions, and more active in collaborating with their classmates to complete assignments. In addition, the learning atmosphere became more enjoyable because students were directly involved in activities connected to their daily experiences. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the implementation of Project Based Learning was effective in increasing learning activeness and reducing boredom among first-grade students of MI Ma’arif NU Bebekan in Indonesian language lessons. This learning model can serve as an effective alternative for creating a more engaging, active, and meaningful learning experience for elementary school students.

The study examines the symbolic meaning of the “Bread of Life” in John 6 through an exegetical-theological approach, using intertextual and narrative-semiotic perspectives. It uncovers the dynamics of Johannine Christological revelation, which moves from miracle as sign, through theological discourse, and culminates in the sacramental understanding of the Eucharist. The Gospel of John is read as a text that employs symbolism and patterns of misunderstanding to lead readers from a literal reading toward deeper faith in Jesus as the source of true life. In this framework, the “Bread of Life” functions not merely as metaphor but as a revelatory symbol integrating Christological, soteriological, and ecclesiological dimensions. Findings show that this symbol is rooted in Old Testament motifs such as manna, Exodus, and wisdom, reinterpreted Christologically in Jesus. The feeding miracle points beyond physical sustenance to divine revelation, culminating in the statement “I am the Bread of Life.” John 6:51b–58 intensifies this sacramental meaning, forming the basis for Eucharistic theology, where participation in Christ’s body and blood signifies existential communion with God. The study concludes that John integrates Christology and sacramental theology, portraying faith as movement from sign to reality, recognition to participation, and revelation to communion with Christ.

This study aims to examine relevant and effective Christian Religious Education (CRE) learning methods in the digital era. The rapid development of information and communication technology has brought significant changes in education, including CRE instruction. The research method employed is a literature study with a descriptive-analytical approach to various academic sources and technology-based CRE learning practices. The results indicate that integrating digital media such as online learning platforms, Bible-based interactive applications, and social media creatively can enhance students' engagement and understanding of Christian faith values. Furthermore, the use of digital technology opens wider opportunities for contextual and meaningful faith formation across diverse learning environments. The study also identifies key challenges faced by CRE teachers, namely digital readiness, infrastructure limitations, and maintaining relational and spiritual dimensions in virtual learning environments. Teachers must therefore be equipped not only technologically but also theologically to navigate these complexities. The research concludes that the transformation of CRE methods in the digital era is not merely a technology adoption but a holistic theological integration of faith, technology, and pedagogy.

This study aims to implement the Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) learning model to improve collaboration skills and learning outcomes among phase E students in class X-3 at SMA Katolik 2 Kabanjahe in Catholic Religious Education. This research employed Classroom Action Research conducted in two cycles, consisting of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection stages. Data were collected through observation sheets, learning outcome tests, and documentation, then analyzed using descriptive qualitative analysis supported by process and learning achievement indicators. The findings showed that the implementation of the CIRC learning model improved across learning stages, including orientation from 87% to 95%, organization from 90% to 97%, concept introduction from 87% to 92%, publication from 93% to 98%, and reflection and reinforcement from 87% to 98%. Students’ collaboration skills also increased in each indicator, namely working productively from 75% to 88%, actively participating in problem solving from 82% to 88%, maintaining a balance between listening and speaking from 76% to 86%, appreciating group members’ contributions from 73% to 87%, and demonstrating responsibility as group members from 77% to 93%. Learning outcomes also improved, as shown by the increase in the proficient category from 27% to 77%, while the basic and developing categories decreased to 0% in cycle II. These results indicate that CIRC effectively enhances students’ active participation, collaboration, responsibility, and learning achievement. Therefore, CIRC is recommended as an alternative collaborative learning model for Catholic Religious Education, particularly in strengthening cooperative interaction and meaningful understanding of religious learning materials in classroom practice.

This study aims to identify the pragmatic failures of Large Language Models (LLMs) and the biases of Anglophone-based AI moderation algorithms in detecting Indonesian hate speech expressed through sarcasm, satire, euphemism, and local cultural metaphors. It also examines the extent to which AI systems understand and interpret the pragmatic meanings within the corpus. This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach with a comparative design. Data were collected through the documentation of hate speech expressions on social media containing elements of local cultural hatred. The data were analyzed using qualitative descriptive methods with pragmatic and thematic approaches. The findings show that all corpus data contain political satire and indirect hate expressed through irony, sarcasm, absurd metaphors, and popular culture wordplay. Testing with Claude AI showed that the system was capable of identifying the data as implicit criticism and recognizing the pragmatic functions of emoticons and contextual meanings in the utterances. However, the analysis also demonstrated limitations in understanding local sociocultural contexts, particularly the metaphors “daun nangka” and “daun sawit,” which were interpreted merely as absurd humor. These findings indicate that AI detection accuracy does not necessarily reflect a deep pragmatic and cultural understanding within the Indonesian context.

This study aims to overhaul the conventional understanding of tourism through a missiological lens, by positioning social interactions at the Parbubu Tarutung Soda Water Tourism Object as the locus of Missio Dei (God's Mission) manifestation. Amidst the tendency of modern humans to be trapped in egocentrism, alienation, and minimal openness due to secular routines, God is present with a mission to transform human relations. Using a qualitative descriptive-theological method, this study analyzes three axes of social interaction (inter-tourists, tourists-managers, and tourists-local communities). The results of field research indicate that although the pattern of interaction between visitors is still minimalist and egocentric-group due to a purely physical recreation orientation, there is a strong spiritual modality in the service aspect (hospitality) of the managers that reflects the restoration of the image of God (Imago Dei). The absence of social conflict and the presence of sincere hospitality are identified not merely as business strategies, but as real implications of the work of the Holy Spirit who precedes the church (prevenient grace) in destroying human egoism. This study concludes that tourism can be an eschatological means by which social interactions are transformed into encounters that bring about God's Shalom, meaning that tourism can be a way to bring about God's peace through authentic encounters between tourists, rather than simply ordinary tourist transactions. The author recommends the reconstruction of public spaces in this destination as inclusive communal spaces that facilitate reconciliation and social transformation.

D Dowry (mahar) is an obligation of a groom to his bride in Islamic marriage, symbolizing respect and responsibility. In the Buton community, mahar also develops as a customary tradition known as boka, which carries both symbolic and socio-cultural meanings. This study aims to analyze the concept of mahar according to the Shafi’i school of law and its implementation in Taduasa Village, South Buton Regency. This research uses a qualitative method with data collection techniques including interviews, documentation, and literature review. The findings show that mahar is viewed as a symbol of respect for women and is determined based on lineage and social status. According to the Shafi’i school, such practices are permissible as long as they are based on mutual agreement and do not burden the groom. However, excessively high dowry amounts in some cases may hinder marriage. This study concludes that the mahar tradition in Taduasa Village remains consistent with Shafi’i principles but should be adjusted to the Islamic values of ease and public welfare.

This research aims to examine how the functions of Christian counseling (preventive, curative, developmental, and pastoral) can be integrated into the practice of Christian Religious Education as an effective strategy to support adolescents’ faith development. The background of this study arises from the fact that adolescents experience a crisis of faith that is not only related to theological aspects but also affects their psychological and emotional well-being. On the other hand, christian religious education practices in schools often remain focused on the transfer of doctrinal knowledge without being balanced by adequate personal guidance. This study applies a qualitative method through literature review and conceptual analysis of christian counseling theory, theories of adolescent faith development, and pedagogical practices in christian religious education. The findings indicate that integrating Christian counseling functions into the design of christian religious education learning can create a dialogical, reflective, and pastoral classroom atmosphere, providing opportunities for adolescents to develop spiritual discernment, self-awareness, and the ability to make responsible moral decisions. This article discusses the relevance of counseling to adolescents’ spiritual development, the characteristics of their faith development, the challenges of implementing counseling in Christian educational institutions, and the design of learning based on dialogue, reflection, and mentoring. In this way, the integration of christian counseling in christian religious education is considered a holistic approach that enriches the meaning of faith education and supports adolescents’ faith growth in a contextual, profound, and sustainable manner.

This article aims to explain the theological meaning and implications of the word "worship" (προσκυνέω/proskuneō) in Matthew 2:2 in the context of the birth of Jesus Christ, and its relevance to the worship practices of the church today. This study uses a qualitative method with a contextual-historical analysis approach to the biblical text, supported by a review of theological literature related to worship in the Christian tradition. The results of the study indicate that proskuneō does not only refer to an act of reverence, but also contains the meaning of acknowledgment of divine authority, an attitude of humility, and a deep spiritual commitment. In the context of Matthew 2:2, the actions of the Magi represent theological, relational, and transformative worship. These findings confirm that true worship involves acknowledging God's sovereignty, a readiness for sacrifice, and an openness to renewal of life. The practical implication for the church today is the need to enrich the understanding and practice of worship that goes beyond the liturgy, but is manifested in personal intimacy with God, acts of social benevolence, and service that reflects a God-fearing life. This article contributes to a biblical understanding of worship and its application in the context of the believer's spiritual life.

This study aims to analyze in-depth cognitive learning theory and its implications for improving the effectiveness of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teaching at the elementary school level. The adopted methodological approach is qualitative through library research, with the application of content analysis and theoretical synthesis techniques. Primary data sources were obtained from academic literature including textbooks, scientific journals, and the latest empirical research relevant within the last decade. The results of the analysis indicate that cognitive learning theory positions cognitive processes as the core of learning activities, allowing students to function as active agents in constructing knowledge through understanding, analysis, memory representation, and integration with pre-existing cognitive schemas. In the context of PAI, this approach enables meaningful learning through interactive pedagogical strategies such as collaborative discussions, problem-solving, case studies, and metacognitive reflection, which are empirically adapted to the stages of students' cognitive development. The implementation of cognitive theory significantly contributes to strengthening conceptual understanding, increasing learning engagement, developing critical thinking skills, transferring knowledge, and internalizing Islamic values. Thus, cognitive learning theory makes a substantial contribution to optimizing the effectiveness of PAI teaching in elementary schools through an interactive, systematic, and understanding-oriented approach.

The Celeng Behel tradition is a form of local wisdom practiced by the people of Soropadan Village, Pringsurat District, Temanggung Regency, and is carried out through the Sadranan Kali ritual. This study aims to explain the form and function of the Celeng Behel tradition in the community’s daily life. The research uses a qualitative descriptive method with folklore and semiotic approaches. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, then analyzed to understand the cultural meanings behind the tradition. The results show that the Celeng Behel tradition has two main forms. First, it exists as oral folklore in the form of stories passed down from generation to generation. Second, it appears as a ritual practice, namely Sadranan Kali, which is held every year on the 10th of Sapar at Bendung Pondoh. The ritual includes communal prayers, the preparation of offerings, and the release of ducks into the river. These activities symbolize the community’s gratitude for the water that supports their farming and daily needs. The tradition also has important functions. It serves as a way for the community to express their hopes and concerns about nature, especially related to water and agriculture. It also strengthens social rules and cultural values that have been passed down over time. From a semiotic point of view, the symbols used in the ritual have both direct meanings and deeper cultural meanings that form shared beliefs in the community. In conclusion, the Celeng Behel tradition is not only a cultural activity, but also an important way to maintain harmony between humans, nature, and spiritual values in the life of the Soropadan community.

The fiqh principle stating that a leader’s policies and actions toward the people must be based on public welfare is an Islamic legal principle emphasizing that every action and policy of a leader should be oriented toward the interests and well-being of society. This study aims to examine the meaning, normative foundations, concepts, and implementation of this principle in state governance. The research employs a library research method with a normative approach through the analysis of the Qur’an, Hadith, fiqh literature, scholarly journals, and relevant legislation. The findings indicate that this principle has a strong foundation in the Qur’an and Hadith, particularly regarding trustworthiness, justice, and the responsibility of leaders toward their people. Conceptually, this principle is closely related to the theories of maqashid al-shari’ah and siyasah shar’iyyah, which place public welfare as the primary objective of Islamic law. In practice, the principle is applied in various fields, including public administration, law and legislation, religious policies, as well as economic and fiscal policies. Its implementation can be seen in policies concerning the prohibition of interfaith marriage, marriage dispensation, marriage legalization hearings (isbat), the suspension of Hajj departures during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the management of state finances during the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs. Therefore, this principle demonstrates that Islamic law possesses flexible and adaptive characteristics while maintaining a strong orientation toward public welfare, making it relevant to modern systems of governance.