MAZHAB IN A MULTICULTURAL CONTEXT: BUILDING TOLERANCE IN A DIVERSE MUSLIM SOCIETY

Abstract

Indonesia as a country with the largest Muslim population in the world, has a long history related to the process of Islamisation which began through trade and da'wah. Islam that entered the archipelago has merged with local culture, resulting in various forms of religious practice. Over time, Islamic thought developed influenced by an open, tolerant and accommodating attitude towards the influence of foreign civilisations. However, differences in fiqh and khilafiah schools of thought are often a source of conflict and division among Muslims. This is triggered by taqlid and ta'ashshub attitudes that hinder the creation of unity among Muslims. In this context, religious tolerance becomes important as a foundation for creating an inclusive and harmonious environment, both in daily life and in the educational space. The issue of khilafiah should be addressed with wisdom and tolerance, because differences of opinion are part of sunnatullah that cannot be avoided. This research uses a normative juridical method with a literature study approach to analyse legal principles contained in written sources. The focus of this research is on the importance of mutual respect and tolerance for differences in mazhab as part of efforts to maintain the unity of Muslims in Indonesia