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Christianity, Islam, and Nationalism in Indonesia: The Struggle for Pluralism

Sam Carter

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Published in Christianity Islam And Nationalism In Indonesia (Routledge Contemporary Southeast Asia 6)

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Indonesia is the world's most populous Muslim-majority country, but it is also home to a significant Christian minority. The relationship between these two religious communities has been complex and often fraught with tension. In recent years, the rise of political Islam in Indonesia has further complicated this relationship, leading to increased discrimination against religious minorities and threats to religious freedom.

Christianity Islam and Nationalism in Indonesia (Routledge Contemporary Southeast Asia 6)

Christianity, Islam and Nationalism in Indonesia (Routledge Contemporary Southeast Asia Series Book 6)

by Charles E. Farhadian

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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This book examines the historical roots of religious tensions in Indonesia and the challenges facing religious minorities in the 21st century. It explores the role of nationalism in shaping religious identity and the ways in which religious beliefs have been used to justify violence and discrimination.

The book is based on extensive research in Indonesia, including interviews with religious leaders, scholars, and government officials. It provides a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the complex relationship between Christianity, Islam, and nationalism in Indonesia.

Historical Roots of Religious Tensions

The roots of religious tensions in Indonesia can be traced back to the colonial era. The Dutch colonial government favored Christianity over Islam, and this led to resentment among many Muslims. After Indonesia gained independence in 1945, there was a brief period of religious harmony. However, tensions soon began to rise again, as the government adopted a секулярная state ideology that was seen by many Muslims as a threat to their religion.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the government of President Suharto promoted a policy of "Pancasilaism," which emphasized the importance of national unity and the five principles of the Indonesian state ideology. This policy was successful in reducing religious tensions, but it also led to the suppression of religious dissent.

The Rise of Political Islam

In the 1980s and 1990s, there was a resurgence of political Islam in Indonesia. This was due in part to the growing influence of Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries, which provided financial and ideological support to Islamic movements in Indonesia.

The rise of political Islam led to increased discrimination against religious minorities. In some cases, this discrimination was sanctioned by the government. For example, in 1997, the government issued a decree that banned the construction of new churches in areas where Muslims constituted a majority of the population.

Challenges Facing Religious Minorities

In the 21st century, religious minorities in Indonesia continue to face a number of challenges. These challenges include:

Discrimination: Religious minorities often face discrimination in employment, education, and housing. They may also be subject to violence and intimidation.
Government restrictions: The government of Indonesia has imposed a number of restrictions on religious minorities, including the ban on the construction of new churches in some areas.
Extremism: There are a number of extremist groups in Indonesia that target religious minorities. These groups have been responsible for a number of violent attacks against Christians and other religious minorities.

The Struggle for Pluralism

Despite the challenges, there is also a growing movement for religious pluralism in Indonesia. This movement is led by a number of religious leaders, scholars, and activists who are working to promote tolerance and understanding between different religious communities.

The struggle for religious pluralism in Indonesia is a complex and ongoing one. However, it is a struggle that is essential for the future of Indonesia as a democratic and pluralistic society.

This book provides a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the complex relationship between Christianity, Islam, and nationalism in Indonesia. It is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in the history of religious tensions in Indonesia or the challenges facing religious minorities in the 21st century.

Christianity, Islam and Nationalism in Indonesia (Routledge Contemporary Southeast Asia Series Book 6)

by Charles E. Farhadian

4.6 out of 5