Tolerance Among Muslims: The Concept of Tolerance and the Method of Character Education for Tolerance Among Muslims in the Qur’an

Abstract

It is an undeniable fact that within the Muslim community, there are various differences, especially in practical worship practices (Fiqh). If not addressed with proper tolerance, these differences can easily lead to friction. Another issue arises when some Muslims equate intra-Muslim tolerance with interreligious tolerance, which, if left unchecked, could trigger internal conflicts among Muslims. This journal focuses on three main questions: (1) What is the concept of tolerance among Muslims? (2) What are the foundations for establishing this concept? (3) What are the methods of character education for tolerance among Muslims in the Qur'an? This study employs a library research approach with a descriptive-analytical method and thematic exegesis. The analysis refers to the interpretation of relevant Qur'anic verses, including Sūrat al-Mā’idah (5:8), Sūrat Āl ‘Imrān (3:103 and 3:105), and Sūrat al-Anbiyā’ (21:78-79). The study concludes that: (1) Differences among Muslims are generally in the domain of al-Furū‘ al-Ẓanniyyah (branches of jurisprudence based on conjecture), and the appropriate concept of tolerance is Tasāmuḥ Ẓāhir wa Bāṭin (outward and inward tolerance). (2) The foundation of this concept is Surah al-Ma’idah (5:8), which commands Muslims to act justly in addressing internal differences. (3) The methods of character education for tolerance in the Qur'an include the obligation to maintain unity, the prohibition of division, the understanding that differences are not prohibited by Allah, and reinforcement through exemplary stories.