Awaken the Spirit of Peace through Moderate Islamic Religious Education

Abstract

This article emphasizes the importance of integrating Islamic Religious Education (IRE)with the principles of religious moderation (wasathiyyah) within Indonesia’s diverse educational landscape. Moderate Islamic education plays a crucial and strategic role in developing a generation that is tolerant, peaceful, and culturally aware. The study uses a library research approach, analyzing primary and secondary sources related to Islamic education, peace, and multicultural values. The findings show that traditional models of religious education often focus only on doctrinal and ritual aspects, neglecting to cultivate values of empathy, coexistence, and mutual respect. Therefore, incorporating moderation into IRE is essential to counter the rise of radical ideologies among students and to foster balanced faith and social harmony. Achieving this requires educators to thoroughly understand and demonstrate moderation in their teaching, and for curricula to consistently include inclusive and compassionate religious principles. Strong policy commitment from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, universities, and other stakeholders is vital for creating programs that prioritize moderate Islamic education throughout the country. Ultimately, these efforts will promote lasting peace and harmony among Indonesia’s diverse religious communities.