Interfaith encounter as a laboratory of living moderation: multicultural islamic religious education in heterogeneous environments

Abstract

Indonesia’s religious plurality simultaneously presents both opportunities and challenges for Islamic Religious Education (IRE) to transcend normative-textual boundaries toward transformative social praxis. This study examines the implementation of multicultural-based IRE at MA Darul Amanah Bedono, a pesantren-based madrasah situated within a religiously heterogeneous community in Semarang Regency, Central Java. Employing a qualitative approach with a case study design, data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and subsequently analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldãna. The findings reveal three integrated strategic dimensions: the reconstruction of IRE learning through contextual theological demarcation between the domains of aqidah and muamalah; the utilization of the heterogeneous social environment as a Laboratory of Living Moderation through interfaith encounter practices encompassing cross-religious Paskibra collaboration and dialogue at a local church; and the formation of tawazun student character demonstrating inclusive attitudes without sacrificing Islamic identity. This study contributes by presenting the Living Moderation Laboratory Model as a new conceptual framework that offers practical implications for the adoption of interfaith encounters in the development of the national IRE curriculum.