Beyond Tolerance: Reconstructing Interfaith Justice in Indonesia through Islamic and Christian Theological Ethics

Abstract

Religious tolerance is frequently presented as a foundation of peaceful coexistence in Indonesia, yet tolerance alone may be insufficient to address structural inequality, discrimination, and unequal participation among religious communities. This article examines whether theological concepts of justice can provide a stronger normative foundation for interfaith relations than tolerance alone. Employing comparative theological analysis and normative legal reasoning, the study examines Islamic and Christian ethical perspectives on human dignity, equality, reciprocity, hospitality, and responsibility toward religious others. The research argues that tolerance may reproduce a hierarchical relationship in which the majority merely permits minority communities to exist, whereas justice requires recognition of equal moral and civic standing. The article therefore proposes a model of interfaith justice based on substantive equality, mutual recognition, freedom of conscience, and shared responsibility for the common good. Within Indonesia's constitutional framework, this model can support policies that move beyond passive tolerance toward meaningful inclusion in public institutions and social life. The study concludes that theological traditions can contribute positively to interfaith justice when interpreted through principles of dignity and equality rather than religious supremacy. Such an approach offers a constructive theological contribution to Indonesia's continuing efforts to manage religious diversity within a constitutional democracy.