Moderasi Beragama sebagai Mekanisme Kohesi Sosial Masyarakat Desa: Suatu Telaah Sosiologis

Abstract

This study examines religious moderation as a mechanism of social cohesion in rural communities through a study of the Religious Moderation Village in Berancah Village, Bantan District, Bengkalis Regency, Riau. The study is motivated by social changes occurring in rural communities as a consequence of information technology development, modernization, and changing patterns of social interaction. In this context, religious moderation is understood not only as an approach to religious life but also as a social practice that can strengthen relationships among residents, social solidarity, and social cohesion. This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation and analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the Religious Moderation Village contributes to strengthening social cohesion through the development of tolerance, togetherness, mutual cooperation, deliberation, social participation, and respect for differences. Social cohesion is also supported by the involvement of village government, religious leaders, and community leaders, who function as mobilizers and reinforcers of collective values. From Émile Durkheim's perspective of social solidarity, these practices demonstrate the persistence of social bonds based on shared values, norms, and collective consciousness. Nevertheless, the strengthening of social cohesion faces challenges related to the development of social media, the circulation of information that does not always correspond with the principles of religious moderation, and the tendency of some young people to interact more frequently through digital spaces than through direct community activities. This study demonstrates that religious moderation can be understood as a social mechanism operating through interaction, participation, and the strengthening of solidarity within rural communities.