Muhammadiyah Explains the Future of Religion
Muhammadiyah attends an international forum for inter-religious dialogue in Paris, France.
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, PARIS -- In the last 20 years, Asia has witnessed changes in religious and social life. People in countries on the continent, including Indonesia, increasingly believe that faith is important and necessary in life.
This was stated by the Secretary General (Secum) of the Head of the Muhammadiyah Center Prof. Abdul Mu'ti at the Communita Religions Dialogue in Sant'Egidio in Paris, France. The international forum has been held since Sunday (September 22, 2024) until today.
The PP Muhammadiyah section reminds that such conditions do not necessarily ignore the fact that disengagement with religion is still a phenomenon among society. This is a matter of concern to religious leaders and people.
“This kind of release can lead to a loss of religious relevance,” Abdul Mu'ti told the audience of the Comunita forum in Sant'Egidio, as quoted from a written statement received on Tuesday (24/9/2024).
To some extent, he continued, the future of religion will depend on its ability to meet the challenges at hand. In the Asian context, according to Abdul Mu'ti, there are five challenges.
First, the mental health challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning regarding this.
The problem is characterized by increasing suicide rates and psychological disorders. According to Abdul Mu'ti, materialistic living has led to high levels of stress, decreased social cohesion, and spiritual emptiness.
Second, the challenges of an elderly society caused by social factors. Abdul Mu'ti explained that it also has to do with the change in the younger generation's views on marriage and family life. As a result, few tend to choose not to marry and have no children (childfree). In addition, life expectancy is also increasing with better health services and a healthier lifestyle.
The third challenge is humanity. Industrial development brought negative sides such as human trafficking, exploitation, and “modern slavery.”
Fourth, about the environmental crisis, especially climate change and all its impacts. As for the latter, the gap between the rich and the papas is widening. This is due to absolute capitalism and lack of social solidarity.
“How can religion address these challenges? Religion needs to be revitalized and refreshed, not only as a series of spiritual rituals and practices, but more importantly as a formula for solving real-life problems,” said UIN professor Sharif Hidayatullah.
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