THE ROLE OF MODERATE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN ADDRESSING STIGMATIZATION AT THE AL HADI ISLAMIC BOARDING SCHOOL IN PEKALONGAN

Abstrak

This qualitative case study examines how religious moderation education at Al-Hadi Islamic Boarding School (Pesantren) in Pekalongan, Indonesia, counters stigmatization against the local Shia community. Facing marginalization, community members often practice taqiyyah (religious dissimulation) for safety. In response, Al-Hadi Pesantren has institutionalized a framework of religious moderation within its educational model, striving to balance strong religious conviction with proactive tolerance to prevent extremism. Using in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis, the research found the pesantren successfully integrates moderation principles into its core curriculum. This fosters an environment encouraging critical engagement with contemporary socio-political issues. By applying key Islamic philosophical principles—balance (tawazun), justice ('adl), and wisdom (hikmah)—the institution cultivates student tolerance, intellectual openness, and constructive civic participation. The study concludes that Al-Hadi Pesantren is a potent model for Islamic education in Indonesia, effectively navigating sectarian stigmatization. It demonstrates how classical Islamic philosophy can be pragmatically applied in modern education to advance interfaith tolerance, meaningful dialogue, and sustainable social peace.