Pluralistic Islamic Religious Education: A Vision for Indonesia

Abstract

This essay argues for the development of a pluralistic Islamic religious education in Indonesia based on the principles of positive pluralism, in which students can hold tightly to their convictions while at the same time understand, accept, and engage with those who differ in beliefs. Specifically, this essay focuses on how to develop an Islamic Religious Education—Pendidikan Agama Islam (PAI) in Indonesian—that is pluralistic, shaping students who are open-minded, tolerant, and have a positive outlook on accepting and working together in the midst of differences.