FOCUS is an open access journal covering multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and trans-disciplinary studies of religion in the field of contemporary transformative theology. Transformative theology is a field of study that examines logically the doctrines of faith in religions that are connected to the context of the problems of contemporary society in this world. However, the scope of theological perspective also includes studies related to aspects of spirituality, philosophy, religion, psychology, sociology, arts and culture which have a research focus to make a scientific contribution in answering contemporary multi-religious and multi-cultural humanitarian issues. Read more
The Philosophy of Obedience in War: A Clausewitzian Analysis
This study examines the moral limits of obedience in military ethics through a reinterpretation of Clausewitz’s On War, particularly regarding the relationship between a soldier’s compliance, the teleological purpose of war, and the moral agency of individuals within the chain of command. The research responds to concerns about the persistent strength of absolutist obedience doctrines in modern military institutions, which—across numerous historical cases such as My Lai and Abu Ghraib—have contributed to atrocities and the delegitimization of war. Using a qualitative method based on literature study and conceptual-critical analysis, this article analyzes Clausewitz’s texts, the doctrine of Auftragstaktik, historical investigation reports, and contemporary literature on military ethics, just war theory, and strategic leadership. The findings demonstrate three key points. First, Clausewitz views war as a political instrument directed toward teleological ends such as the restoration of order and the achievement of peace; therefore, obedience holds moral value only insofar as it supports these highest strategic purposes. Second, the analysis of the My Lai massacre and the abuses at Abu Ghraib confirms that blind obedience produces moral and strategic failure when orders are executed without rational judgment or ethical reflection. Third, integrating Clausewitz’s ideas with the principles of Auftragstaktik generates two new normative concepts—critical obedience and ethical disobedience—which position soldiers as responsible moral agents rather than mere executors of commands. These concepts offer an ethical foundation for modern military professionalism, particularly within the context of multidomain warfare and the complex frictions of contemporary conflict. Theoretically, this research contributes original insight to the field of military ethics by proposing a teleological framework that fills gaps in just war studies, professional military ethics, and character education for soldiers. This approach opens new pathways for developing military ethics curricula, reforming command doctrines, and establishing protective mechanisms for soldiers when confronted with erroneous or immoral orders.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adwin Wibisono https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Islamic Art at the Crossroads of Modernity: Aesthetic and Spiritual Interpretations in the Works of Ahmad Sadali and A.D. Pirous in Indonesia
This study examines how contemporary Indonesian Islamic painting functions as a medium of spiritual reflection and as an intellectual project that negotiates Islamic tradition with global modernity. Focusing on the works of Ahmad Sadali and A.D. Pirous, the study responds to an academic concern regarding the persistent fragmentation in Islamic art scholarship among aesthetic, symbolic, and philosophical approaches, as well as the limited comparative readings of Indonesian Muslim artists within the global discourse of Islamic art. Employing a qualitative approach with an interpretive-analytical research design, the study collects data through direct observation of artworks at the exhibition Seabad Sadali: Menjejak Bumi Menembus Langit at Selasar Sunaryo Art Gallery and through visits to Studio Galeri Serambi Pirous, complemented by a literature review of theoretical works and previous studies on Islamic art, abstraction, calligraphy, and visual theology. The findings demonstrate that Ahmad Sadali and A.D. Pirous represent two distinct yet complementary aesthetic strategies within modern Indonesian Islamic painting. Sadali articulates tawḥīd through a quiet and contemplative mode of symbolic abstraction, whereas Pirous advances the deconstruction of calligraphy and heightened visual intensity as a dialogical expression of spiritual anxiety and faith. Together, their works affirm that Islamic painting does not operate merely as decorative art, but functions as a practice of visual theology—a mode of Islamic thinking enacted through symbols, color, and spatial composition. The implications of this study underscore the importance of visual art as an integral part of contemporary Islamic intellectual tradition, while also opening pathways for the development of more inclusive approaches to Islamic art education, curatorial practice, and public dialogue. The originality of this research lies in its comparative reading of Sadali and Pirous as an intellectual project of Indonesian Islamic art, positioning Indonesia not as a peripheral case but as a reflective and active contributor to the global discourse on Islamic art.
Copyright (c) 2025 Renatha Aisya Nazwanindya, Mochamad Ziaul Haq, Yacobus Ari Respati , Henrycus Napitsunargo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Transformation of Personal Spirituality through Digital Technology: A Systematic Literature Review
This study aims to analyse how the experience of “loving God” as a form of personal spirituality undergoes transformation in the digital age, in which religion and technology increasingly intersect in everyday life. The urgency of this research arises from the reality that digital media has become an integral part of religious practice, reshaping the ways individuals pray, meditate, and build communities of faith. This study employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of journal articles, books, dissertations, and research reports published between 2015 and 2025. The data collection process follows the PRISMA protocol, while the analysis proceeds through stages of coding, categorisation, and narrative synthesis of emergent themes. Data sources are drawn from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ProQuest. The analysis focuses on three key dimensions: (1) the transformation of spiritual practices, (2) the ambiguity of religious identity and authority in cyberspace, and (3) the dual role of technology as both a means of reinforcing and commodifying faith. The findings indicate that personal spirituality in the digital age is hybrid and interactive. Digital platforms facilitate broader access to prayer, meditation, and interfaith dialogue, yet simultaneously blur the boundaries of religious identity and authority. Technology strengthens faith through new forms of spiritual connectivity, while also transforming faith into a commodity shaped by algorithmic and market logics. This hybrid spirituality is characterised by continuous connectedness, negotiated religious identities, faith experiences constructed as content, and a tendency to transcend the limits of institutional traditions. The implications of this study include the strengthening of digital religious education, the development of ethical guidelines for the use of technology in spiritual contexts, and the formulation of governance policies for online religious content that respond more reflectively to contemporary dynamics of faith. The originality of this research lies in constructing a conceptual framework of hybrid spirituality, synthesising previous literature into a new analytical model that explains how technology not only mediates but also transforms the experience of loving God in the digital age.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gerardette Philips https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Barzakh and the Imaginal Realm: A Phenomenology of Postmortem Experience in Sufism
This study examines the phenomenology of barzakh in the corpus of classical Sufism as a model of liminal postmortem experience and analyzes its implications for afterlife concepts in other religious traditions. The aim of this research is to explain how Sufi thinkers—particularly Ibn ‘Arabi, Suhrawardī, and al-Jīlī—understand barzakh not as a static space of waiting but as an imaginal realm with its own ontological structure, experienced through the imaginal consciousness of the human being. Employing a qualitative design grounded in narrative-phenomenological analysis, this study conducts an in-depth textual examination of Sufi works and interprets their imaginal narratives as manifestations of transformative consciousness. The findings reveal three main points. First, barzakh is conceived as an ontological imaginal reality in which the subtle body, liminal space, and postmortem forms manifest through al-khayāl al-muttaṣil as the medium of the soul’s experience. Second, barzakh functions as a moral mirror in which one’s deeds, intentions, and inner states become objectified into imaginal landscapes directly encountered by the soul, thereby dynamically shaping its postmortem existential environment. Third, the comparative analysis demonstrates structural parallels between the phenomenology of barzakh and intermediate-realm concepts in non-Islamic traditions—such as Bardo Thodol in Tibetan Buddhism and Olam Ha-Ba in Judaism—which similarly exhibit liminal experiential patterns involving transformations of consciousness, the subtle body, guidance by transcendent entities, and reflective imaginal spaces. This study contributes to the expansion of esoteric Sufi studies by employing a phenomenological approach that interprets barzakh as a structure of experience rather than merely a theological doctrine. Moreover, it offers a new hermeneutical framework for interreligious dialogue by highlighting shared patterns of transitional consciousness across afterlife traditions. The originality of this research lies in its integration of phenomenological analysis with comparative afterlife studies, demonstrating barzakh as a universal archetype of transformative human experience.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Valiyyul Haqq, Iskandar Arnel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Witness of Faith: Homiletical Proposals and Evangelii Gaudium for the Homily
This article aims to illustrate the contributions of homiletics, including the guidance found in Evangelii Gaudium, for the formulation of a homily. Research conducted in two parishes within the Bogor Diocese reveals the dynamics observed in the field regarding the expectations of a homily and the preparation undertaken by the homilist. The findings indicate that a homily transcends mere rhetoric within the liturgy; it represents an encounter of faith between the Word of God and the congregation, mediated by the homilist. This underscores the significance of the homilist's testimony of faith; a testimony that is cultivated in a prayerful atmospher, articulated in the language of the audience, and inspires the congregation towards transformation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Stanislaus Alexander Noning, Leonardus Samosir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Post-Uthmanic Qur’anic Re-Canonization: A Historical Reconstruction of the Second Maṣāḥif Project during the Abbasid–Mamluk Era
This study aims to reconstruct the historical, philological, and ideological dynamics behind the phenomenon of post-Uthmanic Qur’anic re-canonization, known as the second maṣāḥif project. Specifically, it investigates how this process of textual reconsolidation unfolded during the Abbasid and Mamluk periods by highlighting the roles of scholars (ʿulamāʾ), political institutions, and bureaucratic mechanisms in shaping Sunni orthodoxy through the standardization of Qur’anic recitations (qirāʾāt). The study employs a qualitative-descriptive method with a historical-philological and sociological-ideological approach, based on an examination of classical maṣāḥif manuscripts (al-Dānī, Ibn Mujāhid, al-Suyūṭī) as well as secondary analyses from contemporary studies on the history of Qur’anic canonization. The findings reveal that the second maṣāḥif project represents a phase of textual and ideological consolidation marking the transition from oral to institutional authority. Ibn Mujāhid (d. 324 H/936 CE) played a central role in establishing the qirāʾāt sabʿah as the official boundary of canonical readings, supported by Abbasid political power to stabilize religious discourse and strengthen Sunni orthodoxy. The standardization of rasm Uthmānī and the elimination of non-canonical readings produced a hierarchical system of knowledge transmission, in which the qurrāʾ and ʿulamāʾ served as the exclusive mediators between the text and the Muslim community. Although this process achieved theological uniformity and ritual unity, it also resulted in dysfunctions—particularly the loss of linguistic and hermeneutical diversity within the qirāʾāt tradition. Theoretically, this study introduces the concepts of dual canonization and textual statecraft to explain the reciprocal relationship between sacred text, political authority, and the production of orthodoxy in classical Islam.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muchammad Fariz Maulana Akbar, Dody S. Truna, Rifki Rosyad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Integration of Amaedola in Pastoral Context of the Catholic Church in Nias, Indonesia
This study aims to reaffirm the relevance of amaedola, a traditional proverb of Nias which is rich ofethicsand moral values, as a means to form a humanistic, integrative, and dignified character. Despite its deep cultural significance, amaedolais increasingly neglected, particularly among younger generations who are more captivated by the allure of global culture. The rapid flow of information and modern technology has further eroded interest in local wisdom. This research employs a qualitative methodology with an ethnographic approach. Data were collected through literature review, interviews, and direct observation in local communities. The findings reveal that amaedolaserves as an effective medium for pastoral engagement in Nias, as its messages and meanings are embedded in the communal psyche and resonate with the lived experiences of the people. These values facilitate a more accessible embodiment of faith and spirituality through existing cultural traditions. The study implies that integrating amaedolainto pastoral practices not only enhances cultural sensitivity in ministry but also contributes to the preservation and revitalization of Nias’ indigenous wisdom. The originality of this research lies in its contextual theological approach, which bridges local culture and pastoral praxis in a manner that affirms indigenous identity and spiritual development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Stefanus Deliati Hulu, Onesius Otenieli Daeli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Symbolic Modification and Declining Community Participation in Cultural Traditions: A Study of the Ngarot Ritual in Tugu Village, Indramayu, West Java
This study aims to analyze the impact of modification on the declining community participation in the Ngarot ceremony in Tugu Village, Lelea Subdistrict, Indramayu Regency. Ngarot is an agrarian tradition that emphasizes the regeneration of cultural values through the active involvement of youth. Unlike Lelea Village, which has preserved the symbolic structure and educational function of Ngarot, Tugu Village has undergone format changes—such as the removal of agricultural training, the addition of religious recitations (pengajian), and entertainment—that have led to a disorientation of meaning and decreased engagement among younger generations. This study employs a qualitative approach using a descriptive-interpretative method. Data were obtained through interviews, observation, and document analysis, and were analyzed thematically and reflectively. The findings reveal that modifications that disregard the cultural structure of meaning can trigger symbolic alienation, interpretive conflict between cultural and religious narratives, and a sustainability crisis in traditional practices. The original contribution of this research lies in mapping the relationship between local policy, symbolic transformation, and cultural participation. This study recommends a contextual meaning-based preservation model and active youth engagement as an alternative approach to sustaining traditions amid ongoing social change.
Copyright (c) 2025 Willfridus Demetrius Siga, Dominikus Waruwu, Federika Fransiska, Marchelino Joshua https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
From Kitab Kuning to Digital Content: The Political Theology of BIWALI Pesantren in the 2024 Regional Elections
This study aims to analyze how the traditional pesantren kobong Bintang Sembilan Wali (BIWALI) in Banten reconstructs Islamic political theology through digital media during the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections. The research addresses the urgency of understanding how religious institutions adapt to algorithmic political communication and navigate the blurred boundaries between dakwah and electoral propaganda. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the study combines online observation of BIWALI’s official social media accounts with literature analysis to examine the epistemological, sociological, and practical dimensions of digital dakwah content. The findings reveal three major insights: first, BIWALI transforms the authority of the kitab kuning into algorithmically shaped visual narratives; second, it uses moral dakwah as a strategic medium for political endorsement; and third, it triggers public polarization that challenges the singular authority of pesantren in digital discourse. These results suggest that pesantren have evolved into active political actors capable of shaping public opinion in the digital sphere. The research contributes to the fields of Islamic communication, digital religion, and political theology by showing how pesantren function as producers—not merely preservers—of Islamic discourse. Its originality lies in exploring pesantren kobong as algorithmic agents that reinterpret religious authority and communication ethics in the age of viral politics, offering a fresh theoretical and empirical perspective to the study of Islamic institutions in contemporary democracy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ikhsan Ahmad, Mochamad Ziaul Haq https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Role of Religion in Building Peace in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Literature Review
This study aims to systematically examine the role of religion in peacebuilding in Southeast Asia, a region marked by significant religious and cultural diversity as well as recurring ethno-religious conflicts. While religion is often associated with violence, this research highlights its constructive potential by mapping how religious actors, institutions, and values contribute to reconciliation and social cohesion. Employing a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study analyzed 35 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2014 and 2024, selected from databases such as Scopus and Google Scholar. The articles were screened using inclusion and exclusion criteria focusing on empirical research dealing explicitly with religion and peace within Southeast Asia. The analysis identified five thematic areas: the role of religious actors, strategies of interfaith dialogue and mediation, integration of local wisdom, institutional and political challenges, and the contribution of religious education. The findings reveal that religious figures—across Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity—have been central in peacebuilding initiatives, particularly when supported by grassroots legitimacy and cultural contextualization. Dialogical approaches, cultural sensitivity, and educational programs emerged as effective mechanisms for fostering tolerance and reconciliation. However, structural challenges, such as state bureaucracy, ideological resistance, and illiberal policies, continue to hinder the full participation of religious actors in formal peace processes. The study underscores the importance of multi-level collaboration and the recognition of religious institutions not merely as symbolic agents, but as strategic partners in sustainable peacebuilding. Its originality lies in its comprehensive synthesis of literature that bridges fragmented local case studies into a regional framework, offering new insights for both academic discourse and policy development on religion and peace in Southeast Asia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohamad Dindin Hamam Sidik, Rika Dilawati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Framing and Intermedium Practices in Islamic Apologetics: The Construction of Religious Identity and Multicultural Dynamics on Bang Zuma’s YouTube Channel
This article aims to analyze the construction of religious identity through intermedial practices and framing strategies in Islamic apologetic content on social media. The study focuses on the Official Bang Zuma YouTube channel, which presents Islamic apologetics through a combination of audio, visual, textual, and online interaction. The research employs a qualitative content analysis method, integrating Robert Entman’s framing theory and Thierry de Duve’s intermedium approach to examine how messages are structured, transmitted, and received by audiences. The findings indicate that Bang Zuma’s apologetic content frames Islam as occupying a defensive position perceived as threatened yet theologically superior, while employing intermedial techniques to reinforce narratives and construct a virtual interpretive community. Three key results emerge: (1) framing-intermedium practices strengthen group identity boundaries and produce a model of “segregative multiculturalism”; (2) although predominantly confrontational, apologetic content leaves room for constructive dialogue through the presence of “digital mediators” among followers; and (3) the development of “multicultural digital literacy” is required to balance the polarizing potential of apologetic content. The implications highlight the importance of inclusive digital literacy strategies to strengthen social cohesion in the era of new media. The originality of this study lies in its integration of framing theory and the intermedium approach to explain how religious identity is shaped within the contemporary digital landscape and its implications for the dynamics of multiculturalism in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Iman Mukhroman & Deni Miharja https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Reflexive Fieldwork Practices in a Sacred Context: Researching the Baduy Religious Landscape
The growing academic interest in Indigenous communities has led to a surge of studies on the Baduy people in Indonesia. However, many of these studies have been criticized for relying on Western paradigms that misalign with the Baduy’s cosmological, ethical, and relational worldview. This research aims to critically re-examine fieldwork practices in the sacred Baduy context by adopting a decolonial and relational approach that foregrounds methodological sensitivity and epistemic justice. Employing an autoethnographic method, the author reflects on personal experiences conducting collaborative fieldwork with the Baduy community. The study highlights essential elements of Baduy lifeways—including pikukuh, buyut, and principles of asceticism—alongside formal and informal rules that shape engagements with outsiders. The findings underscore the necessity of conducting research that is reflexive and respectful, rooted in the Baduy’s spiritual-relational epistemology. The discussion calls for a rearticulation of research ethics within sacred and Indigenous settings and advocates for pluriversality as a framework to honor diverse ontologies and knowledge systems. This study offers an original contribution by centering Indigenous epistemologies in research methodology and advancing a collaborative model for ethical engagement in sacred landscapes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anisa Eka Putri Kusmayani, Tuti Elfrida https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Between Love and Affection: Rahmatan Lil Alamin as a Transformative Axiological Framework in Global Education
This study explores the paradigm of Rahmatan Lil Alamin as a transformative axiological framework for reorienting global education in an era marked by instrumentalism, ecological crisis, and moral disintegration. Employing a descriptive qualitative method with a philosophical and interpretive literature-based approach, the paper critically examines how Islamic values of universal compassion, justice, and ethical responsibility can enrich and redirect the purpose of education beyond utilitarian ends. The findings reveal that when Rahmatan Lil Alamin is integrated into educational thought and practice, it enables the emergence of a holistic pedagogy that cultivates not only intellectual competence but also moral sensibility, ecological awareness, and spiritual depth. This paradigm positions education as a moral and civilizational project—one that fosters the formation of ethically grounded individuals committed to the common good. Rather than treating education as a neutral mechanism for economic mobility, Rahmatan Lil Alamin recasts it as an ethical vocation rooted in values that transcend religious, cultural, and disciplinary boundaries. The study contributes to the contemporary discourse on Islamic philosophy of education by constructing an integrative, value-based, and globally relevant framework for building an impactful, compassionate, and sustainable model of higher education.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Baha' bin Mokhtar, Mohammad Taufiq Rahman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Living the Values of Mercy: Moral and Social Development in Indonesian Pesantren through the Yellow Book Tradition
Pesantren, as a traditional Islamic educational institution, not only transfers religious knowledge but also instills moral and social values ​​that are in line with the principles of compassion, justice, and concern for others and the universe. The yellow book, as the main source of learning in pesantren, has a major role in translating the values ​​of Rahmatan Li al-Ālamīn into daily life practices. Through the teaching of fiqh, tasawuf, and other teachings, students not only understand religious theory but are also taught to practice these values ​​in their social interactions. The application of the concept of Rahmatan Li al-Ālamīn is also reflected in social life in pesantren, where students are taught to live together in harmony, help each other, and respect differences. Social activities carried out by pesantren, such as providing assistance to the community, show that this value of compassion applies not only to relationships between individuals but also to relationships with society at large. In addition, literacy in yellow books also makes a big contribution to the development of the character of students, by teaching moral and ethical values ​​that are in line with the principle of Rahmatan Li al-Ālamīn.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdul Kodir, Mohd Solahuddin Shahruddin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Menemukan Kekatolikan Baru: Telaah Pemikiran Ilia Delio tentang Teologi, Sains, dan Teknologi
This study explores Ilia Delio’s thought on a new paradigm of “catholicity” within the context of dialogue between faith and science. This topic is significant because the Catholic Church is frequently challenged to reassess the relevance of its teachings amid the rapid advancement of scientific knowledge and the global ecological crisis. The research employs a qualitative method with a hermeneutic approach and literature review of Delio’s works. The main findings indicate that “catholicity” should not be understood merely as an institution or doctrinal system, but as a spiritual consciousness that unites all of creation in the love of God. The holistic dimension highlighted includes the interconnectedness of the universe, humanity, Christ, and the Church as part of a cosmic evolutionary process directed toward unity. The implications of this thought are relevant for the development of contextual theology, especially in addressing technological and ecological challenges in a more inclusive and sustainable way. This study offers added value through a systematic synthesis of Delio’s ideas and their potential application in renewing theological understandings of the identity and mission of the Catholic Church in the contemporary era.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bernardus Andriananta Hadityo Triesadi, Andreas Bernadinus Atawolo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Relevance of John Paul II's Theology of the Body in Addressing the Crisis of Understanding Body and Sexuality in the Era of Social-Media
The digital era triggers an anthropology crisis of the body. This is marked by the emergence of views on the objectification of the body and the commodification of sexuality, where the human body is reduced to an object of consumption and exploitation. Phenomena such as pornography, body image culture, and unrealistic beauty standards obscure the spiritual meaning of the body as a divine creation. These issues lead to a degradation of understanding regarding the values of marriage, sexuality, and human relationships. This study aims to examine the relevance of John Paul II’s Theology of the Body as a solution to these phenomena. John Paul II's teachings, rooted in a profound reflection on the Scriptures, position the body as a medium for revealing love and self-giving. The body is not merely understood as a biological reality but also as a spiritual and transcendent dimension that reflects God's love. Through concepts such as the spousal meaning of the body and humanity’s call to live in purity of heart, the Theology of the Body offers a holistic and profound perspective on the body, sexuality, and human relationships. This study employs a literature review method, analyzing 129 catecheses of John Paul II alongside various modern social phenomena. The findings demonstrate that the Theology of the Body restores the dignity of the human body by opposing objectification and exploitation while promoting loving relationships that are dignified and sacred. By understanding the body as a sacrament of love that reflects the human identity as God’s image, John Paul II’s Theology of the Body serves not only as a theological solution but also as a practical response to social, cultural, and moral challenges in the modern era.
Copyright (c) 2024 Paulinus Herlambang Prasetyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Various Cultures and One Compassion: Study of the Principles of Unity of Candidates of Priests at Fermentum Major Seminary in Bandung, West Java
This research discusses the cultural differences of each candidates of priest at Fermentum Major Seminary. Cultural differences are a challenge for efforts to unify the vision with the Fermentum Major Seminary formation program. By using the unifying elements offered by the RFIS document, the candidates of priest create unity among community members with an attitude of ‘Silih Asih’. ‘Silih Asih’ is a Sundanese philosophy that continues to be lived by the people of West Java. This research uses empirical research methods, observations, a logical thinking framework which is manifested in a sequence of narratives, descriptions and analysis. This method is complemented by literature study. Empirical research was carried out using short interviews to find out valid data from each members regarding their place of origin and ethnicity, pastoral care together with the congregation. As a result, good and correct processing is needed in dealing with these differences. The element of unity offered by the Church’s document Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis (RFIS) and the Guidelines for the Formation of Candidates for Priests in the Bandung Diocese help the candidates of priest to find unity of vision with the seminary institution and the pastoral vision of the Bishop of Bandung. The development of an attitude of compassion must be carried out and lived by members at the Fermentum Major Seminary of the Bandung Diocese.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fransiskus Felix, R.F. Bhanu Viktorahadi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Rahmat Panggilan Misioner dalam Sakramen Penguatan: Studi atas Penerima Sakramen Penguatan di Paroki Mariae Beatae Virginis Bogor, Jawa Barat
This study aims to explore and analyse the grace of the missionary calling within the Sacrament of Confirmation, focusing on the lived experiences of Confirmation recipients at the Parish of Beatae Mariae Virginis (BMV) Cathedral in Bogor, West Java. Employing a qualitative approach, the research involved in-depth interviews and questionnaires distributed to parishioners who had received the Sacrament of Confirmation, particularly among adolescents and adults. The findings reveal that the Sacrament of Confirmation is perceived not merely as a significant milestone in one’s Catholic faith journey, but also as a powerful impetus for active participation in missionary and ecclesial service. Recipients of the sacrament recognise their responsibility to bear witness to Christ through the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This study affirms that the Sacrament of Confirmation holds profound relevance in fostering and strengthening the missionary spirit among Catholics, especially adolescent and adult recipients in the BMV Cathedral Parish of Bogor. The practical implications of these findings are expected to assist the Church in designing more effective accompaniment and formation programmes to nurture and sustain the missionary vocation of those who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gerald Prayugo Tirtowijoyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Pemahaman dan Praktik Sakramen Pengurapan Orang Sakit di Rumah Sakit
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi pemahaman teologis dan praktik Sakramen Pengurapan Orang Sakit dalam Gereja Katolik, dengan fokus pada penerapannya di lingkungan rumah sakit. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif dengan studi kasus di sebuah Rumah Sakit di Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat. Pengumpulan datanya melibatkan wawancara mendalam dengan pasien, keluarga mereka, dan petugas pastoral, serta analisis dokumen terkait. Temuan penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Sakramen Pengurapan Orang Sakit berperan penting sebagai sarana rahmat ilahi yang memberikan penghiburan, kekuatan spiritual, dan harapan bagi pasien, sekaligus memperkuat solidaritas komunitas iman. Selain itu, penelitian ini mengidentifikasi tantangan seperti kurangnya pemahaman akan makna sakramen ini dan keterbatasan tenaga pastoral dalam pelaksanaannya. Studi ini memberikan kontribusi dengan memperkaya pemahaman teologis dan praktis tentang Sakramen Pengurapan Orang Sakit serta menawarkan rekomendasi untuk meningkatkan implementasi sakramen ini di konteks pastoral, khususnya di rumah sakit.
Copyright (c) 2024 Theodorus Agung Yogatama https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Karisma dalam Sejarah dan Ajaran Gereja Katolik
Artikel ini bertujuan menelusuri kelahiran dan perkembangan ‘karisma’ dalam sejarah Gereja Katolik. Melalui studi kepustakaan, peneliti menemukan bahwa Pauluslah yang pertama kali menciptakan term tersebut. Kata karisma digunakan Paulus untuk menyebut anugerah karunia Roh Kudus demi pembangunan jemaat. Menurut kesaksian para Bapa Gereja, karisma-karisma, baik yang biasa maupun yang spektakuler, menyertai para rasul dan pemimpin jemaat Gereja perdana. Namun jejak-jejak karisma tidak ditemukan lagi dalam tulisan-tulisan di atas abad IV. Antara masa tersebut sampai akhir abad XIX disebut oleh Gereja sebagai masa ketika karisma tidak menjadi topik yang terdepan dan terutama dalam kehidupan Gereja. Tetetapi tidak berarti karisma hilang begitu saja, Karisma masih lestari dalam bentuknya yang biasa demi kelangsungan hidup Gereja sehari-hari dan dalam bentuknya yang luar biasa dalam individu-individu tertentu.
Copyright (c) 2024 Moses William Yuwono https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Membangun Keseimbangan Antara yang Rohani dan yang Duniawi
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji pentingnya pembinaan iman bagi Orang Muda Katolik (OMK) dalam menghadapi tantangan duniawi dan rohani, serta mengidentifikasi strategi untuk mencapai keseimbangan di antara keduanya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan mencakup pendekatan kualitatif yang melibatkan pengumpulan data melalui keterlibatan langsung dan wawancara pada Paroki Santo Matheus, Depok, Jawa Barat. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa OMK sering mengalami ketegangan antara tuntutan duniawi dan rohani, yang memerlukan pembinaan iman yang kontekstual dan adaptif. Pendekatan holistik yang mencakup doa, refleksi pengalaman, dan pengembangan karakter telah efektif dalam membantu OMK menyeimbangkan kedua aspek tersebut. Penelitian ini memberikan kontribusi praktis bagi pendamping iman dalam mendukung pengembangan OMK, sekaligus menawarkan wawasan akademis untuk memperkuat studi pembinaan iman. Dengan pendekatan yang relevan dan kontekstual, penelitian ini mendukung peran OMK sebagai anggota aktif Gereja dan masyarakat di era modern.
Copyright (c) 2024 Agustinus Damas Adi Sutrisno https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Sociological studies on religion have predominantly focused on macro-sociological approaches, emphasizing structural-functional aspects or conflicts. Consequently, these studies often center on religious movements or organizations and their roles in religious life, neglecting the dynamics of social interaction in everyday religious practices. Such dynamics illustrate how individuals and groups actively shape their religious experiences. However, a different perspective has been offered by Christopher M. Donnelly and Bradley R.E. Wright, who examine religion using a micro-sociological approach, specifically symbolic interactionism. Their study focuses on the dynamics of interruptions during Christian worship services and how congregants respond to such disturbances to uphold the proper conduct of worship. These responses aim to maintain a “self-image” and safeguard the church's reputation, as conceptualized by Erving Goffman. This review aims to inspire similar explorations in other religious contexts.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mochamad Ziaul Haq, Paelani Setia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji tantangan perubahan budaya terhadap praktik dan pemahaman umat tentang sakramen rekonsiliasi di Paroki Santa Maria Fatima Sentul, Bogor, Jawa Barat. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan teknik pengumpulan data berupa wawancara mendalam, observasi, dan studi dokumen. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa umat enggan mengaku dosa karena beberapa kendala, seperti rasa malu di hadapan imam, pemahaman dangkal tentang dosa yang hanya dianggap sebagai benar atau salah tanpa mempertimbangkan dampaknya terhadap relasi dengan Allah, serta pengaruh relativisme moral yang mengaburkan kesadaran akan dosa objektif. Solusi pastoral yang ditawarkan meliputi katekese yang menekankan peran imam sebagai pengajar utama, penyampaian teologi sakramen yang relevan dengan konteks umat, dan penjelasan tentang perlindungan rahasia peniten. Kontribusi penelitian ini memberikan panduan praktis bagi pendamping pastoral dalam meningkatkan antusiasme umat terhadap sakramen rekonsiliasi, sekaligus menambah wawasan akademis terkait pendekatan pastoral dalam religious studies.
Copyright (c) 2024 Agustinus Indra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
This article explores the interconnection between the phenomenon of migration and ecclesiology by analyzing the thoughts of Bernard Lonergan (1904-1984) and Peter C. Phan (1943- …). Utilizing qualitative method and literature study, this research seeks to elucidate how Lonergan’s idea of historical consciousness and Phan’s theological-ecclesiological reflection upon the Church could bring about a fresh understanding of the Church which is more hospitable and hence more inclusive. This is certainly not an easy task as the Church has undergone a lot of dynamics. Looking back at the history of this more-than-two-thousand-year-old institution, one will find that it is indeed a history laden with accounts of migrations. Consequently, while Phan’s project of doing a theological reflection on migration can pave the way towards a more hospitable Church, Lonergan’s proposal to resort to historical consciousness may serve as the key element in ecclesiology.
Copyright (c) 2024 Thomas Kristiatmo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Menggali Spiritualitas Melalui Seni dan Festival di Era Modern
Seni kontemporer hadir di dunia abad 21 yang digital dan informasional. Seni menduduki tempat dalam yang disebut oleh Han Byung-Chul sebagai masyarakat pencapaian atau achievement society dengan keindahan digital yang serba memuluskan persepsi, didominasi oleh pola-pola konsumsi, dan menjauh dari keindahan natural yang bersifat Ilahi. Dengan menggunakan gagasan tentang festival dan kontemplasinya sebagai asal seni, tulisan ini hendak mengelaborasi bagaimana seni dapat menyingkap persepsi baru dengan cara memisahkan eksistensi kerja dan cipta. Melalui studi literatur, tulisan ini mendapati bahwa seni dengan daya ciptanya mampu memulihkan kemanusiaan supaya kembali berserah dan memberi ruang kepada Tuhan. Seni memunculkan kesunyian yang merupakan medium dari keindahan natural, sehingga manusia menjadi kembali terhubung dengan pengadanya (being) sendiri. Dengan demikian, seni dapat membantu memaknai kehidupan spiritual kontemporer secara berarti.
Copyright (c) 2024 Yacobus Ari Respati, Jennifer Jennifer https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Tari Piring, seni tari tradisional dari Minangkabau, Sumatera Barat, awalnya adalah bagian dari ritus kesuburan agraris yang sarat dengan nilai-nilai religius dan spiritual. Seiring dengan masuknya pengaruh Islam pada abad ke-16 dan perubahan sosial-budaya dalam beberapa dekade terakhir, Tari Piring mengalami perubahan signifikan menjadi komoditas dalam industri pariwisata dan hiburan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi transformasi Tari Piring dari ekspresi religius ke komoditas ekonomi, serta dampak proses komodifikasi ini terhadap nilai-nilai tradisional dan religius tari tersebut. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif dengan pendekatan studi literatur. Sementara, analisis data dilakukan dengan menelaah perubahan dalam bentuk pertunjukan, pemasaran, dan persepsi masyarakat terhadap Tari Piring. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa komodifikasi Tari Piring menyebabkan pergeseran dari nilai-nilai religius dan budaya ke nilai-nilai ekonomis. Tari Piring kini lebih sering ditampilkan sebagai atraksi pariwisata dan hiburan daripada sebagai bagian dari upacara adat. Meskipun ini meningkatkan visibilitas dan eksistensi Tari Piring di era modern, perubahan ini juga mengancam keberlanjutan nilai-nilai tradisional dan spiritualnya. Elemen asli dari tari ini mengalami perubahan untuk memenuhi selera pasar, mengorbankan makna spiritual yang dulunya sangat kental.
Copyright (c) 2024 Elaine V.B. Kustedja, Kairupan Melvyn Zaafir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Peran Gereja Dalam Membangun Komunikasi Sosial Melalui Terang Dekrit Inter Mirifica
Kehidupan manusia saat ini ditandai dengan perkembangan teknologi media komunikasi sosial yang semakin canggih. Kemajuan teknologi media komunikasi sosial memberikan kemudahan dalam membangun komunikasi sosial juga membangun relasi satu sama lain dan sebagai media untuk ajaran iman. Gereja Katolik melihat konteks tersebut menjadi peluang dan menunjukkan antusiasme menyambut berbagai inovasi teknologi yang dapat digunakan sebagai sarana melakukan pelayanan spiritual bagi umat beriman. Akan tetapi, melalui wawancara, survei kepada beberapa umat Katolik, studi kepustakaan dan studi literatur yang relevan, serta observasi terhadap media komunikasi sosial yang digunakan untuk pelayanan Gereja, penulis menemukan bahwa berbagai aplikasi media sosial seperti pisau bermata dua yang dapat berdampak positif dan negatif. Tulisan ini membahas tanggapan Gereja Katolik melalui dekrit Inter Mirifica terhadap perkembangan teknologi sebagai media komunikasi. Melalui tulisan ini dikatakan bahwa pandangan Gereja Katolik terhadap perkembangan teknologi sebagai media komunikasi bernada optimis. Oleh sebab itu, penulis menawarkan rekomendasi bagi pelaksana pastoral agar dapat menggunakan media komunikasi sosial sebagai sarana yang efektif dalam pewartaan Gereja.
Copyright (c) 2024 Edy Syahputra Sihombing, Jhonas Fandi Gumilar, Marianus Daslan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Concept of Multiculturalism in the Progressive Islamic Ideology of Muhammadiyah
This research aims to explore the concept of multiculturalism according to Muhammadiyah, specifically as outlined in the concept of the Progressive Islamic Ideology (Risalah Islam Berkemajuan). The research method employed is discourse analysis with a qualitative approach. The primary source of data is the resolutions of the 48th Muhammadiyah Congress in Surakarta, particularly focusing on the section concerning the Progressive Islamic Ideology (RIB). This study affirms that Islam as understood, practiced, advocated, and propagated by the Muhammadiyah organization is highly accommodating to the concept of multiculturalism, including principles that are fundamental such as creed, movement methodology, and preaching understood by Muhammadiyah.
Multiculturalism; Muhammadiyah; Islam Berkemajuan; Pendidikan; Gerakan Sosial
Copyright (c) 2024 Dikdik Dahlan Lukman, Willfridus Demetrius Siga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The Role of Nahdlatul Ulama in Building a New Era Civilization
This research aims to analyze the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) movement in building a superior era, evaluate the implementation of NU's cultural values to society, especially the younger generation, and identify the positive and negative impacts of NU movement development in the new era. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with a narrative research approach and utilizes theoretical frameworks from Norbert Elias and F. Ratzel. Data were obtained through literature study, then analyzed using data reduction techniques, data presentation, and conclusions. The results show that the NU movement in revitalizing the civilization of the new era is directed through the preaching concepts inherited from previous scholars, with strategic steps covering religious, political, economic, and social fields. NU places belief as a sub-dominant to encourage aspects of community life based on religious teachings. The positive impact is the preservation of NU's cultural values, while the negative impact is the lack of adaptation to other religious groups. In conclusion, NU applies cultural values into its integrity by referring to the legacy of previous scholars, especially in building the concept of Islam Nusantara, as NU's effort in facing globalization.
Copyright (c) 2024 Neng Hilma Mimar, Kristining Seva https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
This article discusses the renewal of civilization which is an integral part of Islamic thought. Using the qualitative analysis method, this literature review found several things about the meaning, meaning and origins of renewal in Islamic history. The relationship between the renewal of thought and the concept of ijtihad is also discussed, as well as how this renewal is manifested in the writings of Islamic thinkers. This article develops reform formulations and guidelines that contemporary Muslims must strive for in articulating the goal of harmony between civilizations and their cooperation for the common good.
Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Valiyyul Haqq, Rahimin Affandi Abdul Rahim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0