By Jacob Ereste, Freelance Journalist
Review of Dr. Budhy Munawar Rachman’s analysis of Denny JA’s theory on religion and its relevance to sustainable development, which has been widely discussed on social media since February 15, 2025, is quite interesting to examine and criticize. The goal is to make the digestion of ideas more comprehensive, rather than confusing, lost, and misguided.
Firstly, the claim that religion has long been an integral part of human civilization is debatable. While this claim may be true from an academic perspective, it may not be so in practical terms, based on empirical experience. It can be understood that religion has accompanied various aspects of human life since prehistoric times. This means that religion existed long before history began. Over time, the understanding of religion has evolved, not only as a divine revelation or rigid belief system but also as a shared cultural heritage owned by all humanity.
The problem that arises from this theory is the doubt about religion itself as a belief and conviction that precedes culture. Thus, religion is considered a dynamic cultural product that develops through social and historical interactions. With the conviction that religion is a cultural heritage, we can not only appreciate the diversity of spiritual values but also find new ways to align the role of religion according to the challenges of the times.
Therefore, examining the existence of religion as part of human civilization, which Dr. Budhy Munawar Rachman calls inclusive theology, is crucial. This approach prevents conflict, builds peace, and contributes to building a more inclusive and sustainable society amidst the increasing cultural clashes that transcend traditional boundaries that separate one religion from another. Spiritual values become universal and not limited to a specific religion or tradition.
The role of religion in shaping social order – ethics and morality – has a significant impact on humans, encouraging them to look beyond worldly orientation. Perhaps, at the intersection of cultures, the broader role of religion can enter the inclusive realm, which often becomes the core of disputes between religion and culture that complement each other.
Archaeological findings have also proven the role of religion in human civilization, positioning religion as a cultural heritage. Although culture itself can be assumed to be more dominant, stemming from existing religious values on earth and from heaven.
Denny JA ensures that the view of religion as a connected and dogmatic heritage needs to be re-examined to be approached in a more inclusive and contextual manner. This way, religion can be understood as part of the long journey of human civilization on earth. New opportunities to explore religious dynamics are possible through artificial intelligence as a tool, although caution is necessary to avoid getting lost.
What’s more important is that understanding religion and culture doesn’t need to be like comparing apples and oranges. What matters is that the essence of both can provide energy for body and soul, so we won’t be crushed by the increasingly pampering and sophisticated times that lull us into believing that everything will end when death occurs, and nothing is eternal.
Banten, February 16, 2025
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