KH Abdurrahman Wahid, fondly known as Gus Dur, remains an unforgettable figure in Indonesia’s religious history, even globally. For Gus Dur, religiosity wasn’t just about the routine of worship rituals; it was the foundation for creating an inclusive, tolerant, and peaceful nation. Throughout his journey, Gus Dur left a trail that inspired many to perceive religion as a source of peace and unity.
As the Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), the world’s largest Islamic organization, Gus Dur held a highly progressive religious vision. He believed that Indonesia, with its cultural and religious diversity, could forge a strong harmony. This thinking reflected Gus Dur’s approach to religious diversity, valuing differences as richness rather than sources of conflict.
One distinctive trait of Gus Dur’s religious ideology was his rejection of narrow and exclusive interpretations of religion. He viewed religion as a means to achieve moral and spiritual goals, not as a political tool to divide society. In Gus Dur’s perspective, true religiosity unifies rather than divides.