The concepts of identity politics and pluralism have gained more weight in contemporary discourse on Islam. Identity politics, which highlight the distinctions and identities of specific groups, often pose difficulties to pluralism, which is a concept of diversity and the coexistence of several groups in one community. Islam is a religion that has over a billion followers worldwide, and as such, it is a topic of much discussion on its relationship to identity politics and pluralism. These three elements are intertwined and interact to shape social and political realities in different parts of the world, presenting a dynamic that is full of relevance and challenges.
Islam has a long history of pluralism. The Quran and Hadith contain many references that support diversity and coexistence. The Quran, for example, in Surah Al-Hujurat verse 13 and Al-Maidah verse 48 states:
"O people! Indeed We created you from a man and a woman and made you into nations and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the noblest among you in the sight of Allah is the most pious. Indeed, Allah knows best."
This verse emphasizes that human diversity is God's will and that a person's glory does not depend on their group identity, but on their piety and deeds.
"And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur'an) with the truth, confirming what preceded it and being a guardian over it; so judge between them according to what Allah has sent down and do not follow their lusts in forsaking the truth that has come to you. For each nation among you We have given a rule and a clear path. If Allah had willed, He would have made you one people, but Allah wants to test you for what He has given you, so compete in doing good. Only to Allah will you all return, and He will tell you what you have disputed."
This verse underlines that Allah has given different paths and rules for each people. This diversity is a test from Allah, and humans are asked to compete in doing good. This indicates that pluralism is an integral part of the Divine plan, and humanity should utilize it for the common good.
Pluralism has grown more complicated in the modern era due to a number of political, social, and cultural factors. Several nations with a majority of Muslims, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Lebanon, struggle to strike a balance between pluralism and pressure from organizations trying to impose their own identities.
Indonesia, for example, is known for its motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" (diverse but still one). As the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, Indonesia has long been an example of how Islam and pluralism can coexist. However, these pluralistic ideals have been tested by the growing politicization of religion and the emergence of extreme organizations. There are significant challenges to Indonesian variety, including prejudice toward religious minorities, the closing of non-Muslim houses of worship, and the application of sharia law in some regions.
The concept of plurality is frequently contested by identity politics, which emphasizes the distinctions and identities of specific groups. Identity politics frequently emphasizes contrasts in race, religion, and culture in order to garner political support. Conflict and social division may result from this.
In the Middle East, sectarian conflict between Sunnis and Shias frequently influences identity politics. Prolonged conflicts have been experienced in countries like Yemen, Syria, and Iraq, which have been primarily caused by sectarian tensions and the manipulation of identity politics by regional and local actors. These conflicts not only destroy the social fabric but also undermine the potential to achieve a pluralistic and peaceful society.
