Understanding Feminism and Pluralism in Interfaith Marriages

The book “Reinterpretation of Interfaith Marriage” aims to spark discussion about diversity in Indonesia regarding interfaith marriage. Even though marriage is a common event and is considered normal, it has a high level of complexity; therefore, it is always important to discuss it. Especially regarding marriages between couples of different religions, which are increasingly being rejected due to the strengthening of identity politics.

Interfaith marriage is something that cannot be avoided in Indonesia’s pluralistic and diverse society. Interfaith marriage is a sensitive issue because it goes against dogmatic religious teachings and is deeply rooted in people’s daily lives. This situation is further strengthened by the state through its laws. No. 1/1974 concerning Marriage because it ignores existing facts by not providing a place for couples of different religions.

The reason for the title of this book as “Reinterpretation” is that the views of various scholars and religious figures vary regarding interfaith marriages. This book conveys that interpretation and perspective are not singular in seeing and understanding something, such as marriage, because each event occurs in a different time and context. This book aims to open readers’ minds to accept and discuss various views so that they can strengthen the struggle for justice, peace, familyhood, and equality between men and women in a pluralistic society.

In addition to including personal stories from couples of different religions who have married, this book also presents religious perspectives; however, these remain limited to the views of Islam, Catholicism, and Protestant Christianity. What makes this book special is that it centers on the perspectives of women and pluralism in the discussion, aligning with the core studies of the KAPAL Perempuan Institute, the publisher.

Why women’s perspective is necessary? As written by Yanti Muchtar in “Foreword: It Is Time to Discuss Interfaith Marriage Openly,” women in various contexts are utilized as symbols of a community or as guardians of their groups’ integrity. If a group wants to highlight a specific identity, then the first thing to regulate is women. Ester Mariani Ga’s article, “Women, Marriage, and Religions: Crossing Boundaries,” critically discusses the feminist perspective from a Christian viewpoint regarding the Bible. Women in marriage are depicted as subordinate and become objects of male control.

So the presence of this book, besides opening up frozen barriers, presents others not with hatred and rejection but as something that can be questioned, challenged, and then accepted as alternatives. It also provides a fairer and more equal space for women in marital relationships.