Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): November
Published:
2025-11-02
Articles
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The Mandi Meugang Tradition as a Means of Reinforcing Religious Values in the Kute Cinta Damai Community, Aceh Tenggara
81 Abstract Views 17 PDF/File DownloadsView Abstract
The Mandi Meugang tradition is a local cultural practice that continues to be preserved by the people of Kute Cinta Damai, Aceh Tenggara Regency, to this day. This tradition is considered important because it is believed to bring blessings and spiritual purification before the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan. However, over time, the practice of Mandi Meugang has undergone a shift in meaning and implementation due to the community’s declining knowledge of its original procedures and underlying values. This study aims to describe the implementation process of the Mandi Meugang tradition and to explore the religious values embedded within it among the people of Kute Cinta Damai. This research employs a qualitative field study using a phenomenological approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with community leaders and tradition practitioners, as well as documentation of ritual activities related to Mandi Meugang. The findings reveal that Mandi Meugang is performed one day before Ramadan, involving several stages such as going to the river, reciting an intention, and bathing using pangir (a mixture of traditional herbs). The tradition embodies several religious values, including self-purification before fasting, gratitude for the coming of Ramadan, the spirit of togetherness, mutual forgiveness, and the strengthening of social bonds among community members. Thus, the Mandi Meugang tradition functions not only as a ritual preparation for Ramadan but also as a medium for preserving religious and communal values within the social life of the Kute Cinta Damai community.
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Religious Moderation Values and Moral Messages in the Short Video Lead India: The Tree
32 Abstract Views 82 PDF/File DownloadsView Abstract
The short video Lead India: The Tree presents an inspiring story of unity, tolerance, and social leadership rooted in universal human values. This study aims to analyze the religious moderation values and moral messages embedded in the video and to explore their relevance to multicultural societies. Using a qualitative descriptive approach through content analysis, this study examines the symbols, narratives, and behaviors of the main characters. The findings show that the video reflects four key pillars of religious moderation: national commitment, tolerance, anti-violence, and respect for local traditions. Furthermore, it delivers moral lessons emphasizing social concern, solidarity, and practical action to foster harmony amid diversity. Thus, Lead India: The Tree serves not only as a social campaign medium but also as an effective educational tool for promoting religious moderation and nurturing inclusive community values.
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The Roles of Dai and Pastors in Preventing Negative Speech in the Community of Badar District, Southeast Aceh Regency
15 Abstract Views 9 PDF/File DownloadsView Abstract
Badar District is a border area characterized by a plural society where both Muslim and Christian communities coexist in relatively equal proportions. This socio-religious diversity places religious leaders such as dai and pastors in a crucial position to promote harmony and prevent social tension. This study aims to analyze the roles of dai and pastors in preventing negative speech within the community of Badar District, Southeast Aceh Regency. The research employed a qualitative field research approach, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed descriptively with an emphasis on social meaning and contextual interpretation. The findings reveal that both dai and pastors play a significant role in preventing the use of negative speech that could potentially trigger social conflict. Dai utilize sermons, religious study sessions, and preaching training to instill polite communication ethics, while pastors employ weekly homilies, pastoral counseling, and interfaith moderation programs to foster mutual respect among different faith groups. These collaborative efforts have successfully raised public awareness of the importance of maintaining ethical speech, strengthening interfaith dialogue, and reinforcing social cohesion in the multicultural context of Southeast Aceh.
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The Influence of the Digital Era on the Strengthening of Religious and Cultural Literacy Values among Students of the Study of Religions Program
47 Abstract Views 18 PDF/File DownloadsView Abstract
The digital era has significantly influenced students’ ways of thinking, behavior, and value systems, including those related to religious and cultural literacy. This study aims to analyze the influence of the digital era on the strengthening of religious and cultural literacy values among students of the Study of Religions Program. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collected through interviews, observation, and documentation. The findings indicate that the digital era provides easier access to religious and cultural information while also posing challenges in preserving authenticity and religious identity. Positive use of digital technology can enhance interreligious understanding and cultural awareness, whereas uncontrolled use may lead to value disorientation. Therefore, an integrated digital literacy strategy within religious and cultural education is essential to help students critically select information and maintain religious values as well as local cultural wisdom amid digital globalization.
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The Existence of the Protestant Church in Western Indonesia (GPIB) as a Reflection of Religious Tolerance in Banda Aceh City
20 Abstract Views 8 PDF/File DownloadsView Abstract
This study aims to analyze the existence of the Protestant Church in Western Indonesia (GPIB) in Banda Aceh City as a reflection of religious tolerance within a predominantly Muslim society. The research is grounded in the socio-religious dynamics of Banda Aceh, a region implementing Islamic law while guaranteeing freedom of religion for other faith communities. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis. The findings indicate that the presence of GPIB is socially accepted due to effective communication between the church congregation, local community leaders, and the government. Factors supporting this tolerance include local cultural values, inclusive regional policies, and the role of religious figures in maintaining harmony. Therefore, the existence of GPIB in Banda Aceh represents a dynamic form of tolerance that balances religious identity and local governance.
