Islamic Epistemology And Political Dynamics In Indonesia Study Of The Thought Of Nurcholish Madjid

Gafnel Gafnel; Busyro Busyro; Yaswirman Yaswirman

Authors

Gafnel State Islamic University Sjech M. Djamil Djambek, Bukittinggi, Indonesia
Busyro State Islamic University Sjech M. Djamil Djambek, Bukittinggi, Indonesia
Yaswirman State Islamic University Sjech M. Djamil Djambek, Bukittinggi, Indonesia

Keywords:

Epistemology, Islam and Politics, Nurcholish madjid

Abstract

This article explores the correlation between Islamic epistemology and political dynamics in Indonesia with a focus on an in-depth examination of the ideas of Nurcholish Madjid, affectionately known as "Cak Nur." Nurcholish Madjid, as a renowned Muslim intellectual from Indonesia, has had a significant influence in developing innovative perspectives on the relationship between Islamic teachings and the political arena. The purpose of this paper is to reveal how Nurcholish Madjid's Islamic epistemology influences his perspective on the political sphere in Indonesia. Through an interdisciplinary approach that embraces the fields of Islamic studies, philosophy, and social sciences, a comprehensive analysis of Nurcholish Madjid's thought is conducted. Initially, the article details Nurcholish Madjid's views on Islamic epistemology, including elements such as ijtihad, contextual interpretation, and the relationship between reason and revelation. Next, there is an in-depth analysis of how Nurcholish Madjid epistemological foundation shapes his adopted approach to dealing with political issues in Indonesia, including but not limited to democracy, pluralism, and the role of religion in the public sphere. The analysis clearly shows that the Islamic epistemology that underpins Nurcholish Madjid's thinking plays a fundamental role in shaping his inclusive and innovative views on Indonesian politics. Nurcholish Madjid encouraged ideas such as democracy united by Islamic values, which is able to provide opportunities for all citizens regardless of religious or cultural backgrounds. His thinking also emphasized the urgency of contextual interpretation of Islamic teachings in response to the challenges of his time.

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