The Qur'anic Approach to Build a Peaceful Society in Maintaining a State Integrity; a Study of Muhammad Quraish Shihab's thoughts on his Qur'an exegesis Tafsir Al-Mishbah

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the concept of peaceful coexistence, its foundations, components, and its role in safeguarding the nation, with a specific focus on the perspective of the Islamic scholar Muhammad Quraish Shihab. The research emphasized the significance of reinforcing the foundations of cultural understanding and ethnic diversity as essential elements in achieving peaceful coexistence by highlighting Shihab's stance on this sensitive issue. The researcher utilized an inductive methodology, delving into all aspects of this topic within Shihab's interpretation of "Al-Misbah." To achieve the intended goal, an analytical approach was employed to comprehend, study, discuss, and categorize the concepts of peaceful coexistence and their applications in Shihab's interpretation. The study reached several conclusions, notably tolerance and mutual understanding between different religions and communities that constitute a fundamental basis for building bridges and promoting unity and tolerance in culturally diverse societies from Muhammad Quraish Shihab's perspective. Moreover, the study found that understanding cultural diversity and mutual respect among cultures and religions, particularly in Indonesia, serve as fundamental bases for enhancing and safeguarding peaceful coexistence, mitigating ethnic disruptions, and playing a crucial role in alleviating conflicts and fostering constructive dialogue. Additionally, the research affirmed the significance of tolerance and mutual understanding between religions as a cornerstone for achieving peaceful coexistence, enhancing Islamic, and national unities, and strengthening social ties in culturally diverse communities. Based on these findings, the study recommends fostering understanding and tolerance between cultures and religions through improving education, awareness and supporting cultural initiatives. Furthermore, it suggests backing scientific research in this field and encouraging religious and academic leaders to contribute promoting the message of peaceful coexistence and tolerance in culturally diverse communities.