Localizing Inclusive Theology: A Bottom-Up Model of Interfaith Harmony in Rural Indonesia

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30983/islam_realitas.v12i1.10930

Keywords:

inclusive theology, multiculturalism, interreligious harmony, lived religion, rural pluralism

Abstract

This study aims to show how sustainable inter-religious harmony can be formed in an agrarian multicultural environment through a bottom-up model of harmony that is different from the elite-centered approach in the study of pluralism. Based on a qualitative approach, which includes in-depth interviews and participatory observation in Kasembon sub-district, Malang, this study found that inter-religious harmony is built on the framework of inclusive theology and local cultural mechanisms. Coexistence between religious communities is maintained through thematic practices such as interfaith cooperation, rituals that share cultural values, and performative reconciliation through collective action, alongside local dispute resolution processes. This study contributes to the sociology of religion by integrating inclusive theology with lived religion in rural areas. At the policy level, the study suggests that government programs on religious moderation should be complemented by investments in cultural infrastructure as well as village-based interfaith initiatives.

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Interview

Interview with FKUB Kasembon, 2025, unpublished.

Interview with Haji Ahmad, 2025, unpublished.

Interview with the Village Head of Pait, 2025, unpublished.

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Published

2026-09-02

How to Cite

Rauf , A. Z., Rohman, A., & Ali, M. (2026). Localizing Inclusive Theology: A Bottom-Up Model of Interfaith Harmony in Rural Indonesia. Islam Realitas: Journal of Islamic and Social Studies, 12(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.30983/islam_realitas.v12i1.10930

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 1 (2026): June 2026

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Abdullah Zainur Rauf , Abdul Rohman, Mahrus Al

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