Convergence of Islam and Democracy

Abstract

This studyattempts to analysethe relationship between Islam and democracy objectively with logical rational arguments. It aims to clarify the differences between Islam and democracy in terms of values and concepts, in addition to explaining the reasons for the rejection of some Muslims against democracy and the arguments underlying their rejection. Then, itattempts to draw a theoretical relationship between Islam and democracy by asking critical questions, logical assumptions, and arguments that rely on the empirical practice of implementing democracy in Indonesia. Islam and democracy were born from two different ontological areas. Islam as a religion is believed to be sacred and absolute truth because ontologically its teachings come from God. While the democratic political system was born from the historical trajectory of human cultural development, it means that democracy is profane secular, and the truth is contextual perspective of the status quo of Muslim elite power politics. The concept of democracy in terms of genealogy, values, and orientation is not entirely the same as Islamic teachings, but it is not denied that Islamic teachings are in many respects substantially in line with the concept of democracy. Thus, Indonesia is a country with the largest Muslim population in the world, so it is fitting for Indonesian Muslims to become enforcers of democracy based on human religious values. That is a model of democracy that not only provides a place for the growth of people's beliefs or religiosity, but also provides space for the realization of human rights. Therefore, democracy as a concept, in its implementation, of course, must be adapted to the context and culture of the local community, especially Islamic communities such as in Indonesia and in the Middle East.