Befriending Religious Others

Abstract This article offers a critique of the Indonesian government–led religious moderation programme, highlighting its limitations as a top‐down political initiative primarily focused on national stability and security. Drawing on philosophical and theological perspectives, the article proposes an alternative: a friendship‐based model of religious mediation. This approach emphasizes grassroots, everyday interfaith interactions to foster mutual understanding, respect for diversity, and genuine relational engagement. The friendship model is contrasted with tolerance‐based frameworks inherent in the religious moderation programme, arguing for a shift from mere coexistence to the cultivation of meaningful, transformative interfaith relationships. By incorporating the “middle way” approach, this study suggests that nurturing healthy interfaith relations requires a synergy between grassroots initiatives, non‐governmental educational efforts, and governmental support, offering a robust pathway to living together in the pluralistic Indonesian society.