Written by Hardianto

What is the meaning of religious literacy? Religious literacy is the act of reading and studying sources of knowledge related to religion, such as morals, ethics, and good character, whether in text, oral, digital, or visual form. Understanding religion is important. Religious literacy is a key element in the social life of a community, and generally, in the life of the nation and state.

In Indonesia, there are six religions officially recognized by the government: Islam, Christianity, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. Each follower of a religion will have their own differences, particularly in communication and socialization. Therefore, we must respect and honor one another.

The Benefits of the CCRL Program

In my opinion, the Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy (CCRL) program, initiated by the Leimena Institute, is very beneficial. As a madrasah (Islamic school) teacher, the program has enhanced my understanding of the principles of religious literacy for classroom teaching. CCRL must be based on our shared conviction and awareness of the diverse religions and beliefs that exist. It is through people of different faiths that we can engage in a process of communication across different traditions, and it is these differences that allow us to remain united in our diversity.

The CCRL program also develops a community of educators who can apply religious values. It also enhances educators’ knowledge and skills so they can be applied in classroom practice. I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in other very diverse activities within the CCRL program.

Another benefit I gained from the program is new insight and knowledge. I’ve met speakers who are competent in their fields, and the knowledge I gained is very useful. I’ve been inspired by these highly knowledgeable people.

Personal Experience

I used to feel awkward and uneasy when speaking with people of different faiths, especially when meeting religious leaders directly. Their different ways of dressing, speaking, and greeting would give me mixed feelings. By learning in the CCRL program, I was able to study the three main competencies for relating to people of different faiths: personal, comparative, and collaborative. I was also taught skills in communicating, negotiating, and evaluating my understanding of religious differences.

By understanding other religions, our own faith does not diminish; on the contrary, it grows stronger. We can cooperate and understand others well without feeling awkward or uneasy, because, in the eyes of God, all humans are equal. Therefore, we must always be at peace and create peace.

We need to understand religious differences more deeply because Indonesia is so rich in diversity, including ethnicity, culture, and religion, as symbolized by our motto, “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,” which means “Unity in Diversity.” As a teacher, I hope that my students will become the next generation of the nation with a good attitude toward religious differences. I also hope that they will view and treat people of different faiths with kindness and fairness without losing their own religious beliefs and identity.

CCRL in Practice

CCRL has given me a deep understanding of Indonesia’s great diversity. For this reason, we must have a high level of tolerance. I have to use various strategies to apply my teaching to students. Personally, I still have some feelings that feel like a challenge, but through CCRL I’ve gained new experiences and friends.

I’ve met friends with a wide range of characteristics, competencies, and even different cultures and religions. It is from these friends that I’ve truly understood what CCRL is. The CCRL program can serve as a place for silaturahmi (building social bonds) among people and even between different faiths. In principle, when a person understands and practices the teachings of their own religion well, they will come to a realization of the importance of maintaining harmony and peace among all faiths. As a Muslim, without knowing the teachings of other religions, it would be very awkward to be taught an attitude of tolerance toward them.

Therefore, I believe that for matters related to community, business, and other social activities, there is always an opportunity to cooperate and work together. However, on matters of belief, faith, and aqidah (creed), a Muslim’s position is clear and firm: “lakum dinukum waliyadin,” which means “to you your religion, and to me mine.” This verse explains a very important principle of the Islamic creed, which is that we are not influenced by the beliefs of other religions, thereby creating a beautiful peace in our daily lives.