Local wisdom as a model of interfaith communication in creating religious harmony in Indonesia

Abstract

Religion has long been associated with peace, compassion, and noble human values. Meanwhile, conflicts involving religious differences continue to occur in Indonesia. This research investigated the behavior and interactions of religious communities in Malang, Indonesia. This study used a qualitative approach with participatory observation techniques, interviews, and documentation. The Social Capital theory of Pierre Bourdieu, which does not distinguish between the roles of actors and structures, was used to assess the social interaction in interfaith communication. The results indicated that religious communities can coexist harmoniously, as induced by local wisdom as cultural capital and inheritance. The religious community, including Muslims, Hindus, and Christians, believe they originated from the same ancestor. Even in the same family, people from different religions coexist harmoniously. This study contributes to the role of community leaders as charismatic, traditional, and legal actors that should not be underestimated in creating harmonious interactions through local cultural events. These community leaders can provide their communities with direction and assist them in avoiding conflicts. Finally, Harmony based on regional knowledge will lead to lasting peace.

Keywords

• Local wisdom
• Interfaith communication
• Religious harmony