Theological Foundations of Justice in Indonesia: Exploring Faith-Based Approaches to Social Inequality

Abstract

In Indonesia, a country characterized by religious pluralism, theological concepts of justice play a significant role in addressing social inequality. This paper explores how various faith traditions—particularly Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism—contribute to shaping notions of justice in Indonesian society. It critically examines religious teachings, sacred texts, and local religious practices to understand how they influence the social and economic inclusion of marginalized groups, including the poor, women, indigenous communities, and ethnic minorities. The study argues that Indonesian religious leaders and communities often interpret justice in ways that both challenge and reinforce existing social structures. For example, Islamic concepts of social justice, such as zakat (charity) and the idea of ummah (community), often emphasize the redistribution of wealth and resources, while Christian theology highlights the moral responsibility of believers to care for the poor. The paper contends that faith-based approaches to justice provide unique opportunities for reducing inequality, yet also face challenges related to religious exclusivism, interfaith tensions, and political polarization. Recommendations include fostering interfaith cooperation on justice-related issues and advocating for a more inclusive interpretation of religious teachings that support human dignity, equality, and social welfare.