The Role of Religious Education in Building the Paradoxical Life of Indonesian Society

Abstract

The issue of exclusivity in religion often becomes an arena to destroy inclusive life in society. Exclusivity in religion often leads a person or group of people to judge others who are different from themselves. Judgment of others leads to an attitude of judgment and the fading of compassion in society. Judgemental attitudes towards one another increase when identity politics spread in society. This condition shows a lack of understanding of religion in society. Religion includes the belief system and values of one's life, which leads to the concept of identity and one's calling in life in society. The author sees the significance of religious education in Indonesian society to build a paradoxical life because of the diversity of religions. Paradox leads to an exclusive and inclusive attitude. Exclusive in terms of religiosity helps a person understand themselves well, and inclusive in terms of relationships that help them interact with others in daily life and society. The author will use a method of comparison between the theory of identity in religion and religious ideology to unify a nation. A good religious education will help a person to understand himself and others well as creation and how they can relate to one another in the midst of diversity. The unity of life in society is not based on religious or identity similarity but rather a call to love one another to build a life of solidarity with one another.