The Politics and Practice of Religious Moderation in Indonesia: A Study of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Nahdlatul Ulama, and Muhammadiyah

Religious moderation plays a crucial role in promoting tolerance and harmony at local, national, and global levels. This study employs a qualitative approach to examine religious teachings that encourage mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Data collection relies on documentation from books, journals, training materials, and scholars’ perspectives, which are systematically and critically analyzed. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, religious moderation consists of national commitment, tolerance, non-violence, and cultural accommodation. Nahdlatul Ulama strengthens moderation by enhancing educational institutions and collaborating with the government and society to counter radicalism and terrorism. Meanwhile, Muhammadiyah emphasizes Islam raḥmatan li al-‘ālamīn as the foundation of wasathiyah Islam. This article argues that the religious moderation framework promoted by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Nahdlatul Ulama, and Muhammadiyah significantly contributes to academic policy development and the reinforcement of social harmony. Their approaches not only prevent religious conflicts but also ensure equal rights for all individuals to live in peace and prosperity.