Characteristics of religiousness in the slope of mount Prau: The perspective of inter-religious figures

Abstract

This study aims to examine the religious characteristics of the people living on the slopes of Mount Prau through the perspectives of interfaith leaders. Using a field study method with a phenomenological approach, this study seeks to understand the community’s religious experiences in depth as perceived and interpreted by religious leaders and figures from various traditions. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation of local religious practices. The results indicate that the people of Mount Prau’s slopes have five main characteristics in their religious life. First, they interpret religion as ageman and view all religions as equal, in other terms referred to as pluralism. Second, they demonstrate a very high level of tolerance in social and religious interactions, which results in public spaces not being segregated based on religious aspects. Third, there is a tradition of celebrating religious holidays together even though they originate from different religious beliefs. Fourth, the community provides full freedom for everyone to practice worship according to the teachings of their respective religions. Fifth, the practice of interfaith marriage is not considered taboo and is accepted as part of the deep-rooted social diversity. This finding confirms that the religious community of the slopes of Mount Prau is pluralistic, open, harmonious, and oriented towards interfaith harmony.