Beragama dalam Perspektif Al-Qur’an dan Teori Sosial

Kajian Ontologis dan Epistemologis tentang Fundamentalisme dan Radikalisme

Abstract

The phenomena of fundamentalism and religious radicalism are two social religious problems that continue to grow in modern society. This article discusses ontologically and epistemologically the two terms in the Islamic context by reviewing the perspectives of the Qur'an and social theory. The focus of the study includes (1) conceptual definitions of fundamentalism and religious radicalism, (2) the Qur'anic response to the tendency of extremism in religious belief, and (3) interpretation of this phenomenon within the framework of social theory. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with a text analysis method of Qur'anic verses and socio-political literature. The results of the study show that in the Qur'an, religious extremism is identified as an attitude of “ghuluw” (exceeding limits), which is explained in QS. An-Nisa': 171 and QS. Al-Maidah: 77. These verses criticize excessive religious mindsets that deviate from the principles of moderation and tawhid. On the other hand, social theories such as the class conflict approach and political marginalization explain radicalism as a response to structural oppression and modernization that is perceived to erode religious identity. This article emphasizes the importance of contextual interpretation and a moderate approach in dealing with deviations in religious understanding, in order to create a religious and tolerant society. This study is expected to be an academic contribution in building a friendly and solutive religious discourse in a multicultural society.