Maqasid al-Shariah and Religious Tolerance: Strengthening Interfaith Harmony in Indonesia's Religious Movements and Cultural Identity

Abstract

Religious movements and cultural identities in Indonesia coexist, actively affecting how communities negotiate difference, manage local tensions, and construct shared civic life. This study argues that maqasid al-shariah offers an analytical perspective for examining how Islamic legal-ethical principles are translated into community-based practices of religious moderation. Rather than treating moderation as a general appeal to tolerance, the study refers to maqasid through three interrelated dimensions: hifz al-din as the protection of legitimate religious expression, hifz al-nafs as the prevention of violence and protection of communal security, and hifz al-mal as the safeguarding of property, public space, and shared social resources. Using a qualitative multiple-case study design, this research examines five purposively selected communities in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and West Nusa Tenggara, chosen for their religious-cultural diversity and active grassroots moderation initiatives. Data were collected through participant observation over three months in each community and document analysis of community records, interfaith activity reports, and statements issued by local religious organisations. The analysis focused on the practices and interactions of religious leaders, local authorities, community organisers, and interfaith actors. Thematic coding was used to identify patterns illustrating religion-culture negotiation, conflict management, cultural accommodation, and the practical application of maqasid principles. The findings show that religious moderation functions not only as a normative ideal but also as a practical mechanism for preventing conflict, mediating disputes over worship spaces and public resources, and strengthening interreligious cooperation. Inclusive dialogue, local wisdom, and collaborative social programmes served as key strategies for reducing polarisation and building mutual trust. By linking maqasid al-shariah to micro-level community practices, this study contributes to studies on religious moderation by moving beyond state-centred and doctrinal discussions toward a grounded analysis of how Islamic legal values are negotiated and enacted in everyday pluralistic settings.