Moderasi Beragama melalui Pendidikan Multikultural: Studi pada Masyarakat Desa Balun Kabupaten Lamongan

Abstract

This study examines the role of multicultural education in fostering religious moderation within the community of Balun Village, Lamongan Regency, which is widely known as the “Pancasila Village” due to its successful maintenance of interfaith harmony. The background of this research is based on the increasing challenges of diversity in Indonesia, including potential social conflicts, intolerance, and the spread of provocative information that may disrupt harmony in a plural society. The objective of this study is to analyze the contribution of multicultural education in promoting tolerance and strengthening the practice of religious moderation in a multireligious community setting. This research employs a qualitative approach using library research methods by collecting secondary data from books, academic journals, and other relevant scholarly sources. The data were analyzed using descriptive qualitative techniques through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, supported by source triangulation to ensure data validity. The findings reveal that multicultural education plays a significant role in shaping attitudes of tolerance, openness, and respect for religious differences in Balun Village. These values are internalized through families, educational institutions, religious leaders, and social interactions, resulting in a harmonious community life. Religious moderation is reflected in daily practices such as mutual cooperation, deliberation, social collaboration, and respect for religious worship among different faith groups. The study concludes that multicultural education is a key factor in strengthening religious moderation and maintaining social harmony. Its implication suggests that continuous reinforcement of multicultural education is essential as a preventive strategy to reduce social conflict and to build an inclusive, peaceful, and harmonious society amid diversity.