MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Agung Danarto mentioned that the movement does not practice tolerance arbitrarily but based on Islamic principles. He mentioned that tolerance has different levels.
For instance, Agung stated that Surah Al-Kafirun verse 6 becomes the basis for tolerance towards non-Muslims.
“For Muslims, especially Muhammadiyah members, being tolerant is important, but it must not weaken our faith. As mentioned in Surah Ali Imran verse 19, we must hold firmly to Islam. Tolerance does not mean believing all religions are the same, all are true, or all lead to heaven. Such thinking can harm our beliefs,” said Agung on Wednesday, January 8.
He stressed that Muhammadiyah members must firmly believe in Islam as the true path to salvation. However, Muhammadiyah is committed to promoting the universal message of Islam by collaborating with all communities, regardless of their background.
Besides, Agung noted that many conflicts in Indonesia are not rooted in religious differences but rather in social and economic inequalities. These issues are often exploited and framed as religious disputes, further fueling tensions.
To address these challenges, Muhammadiyah focuses on providing education to reduce social, economic, and knowledge disparities. Muhammadiyah schools and universities are open to everyone, including non-Muslims, and aim to foster equality.
“Our educational efforts are not meant to convert non-Muslims to Islam. Even Prophet Muhammad never insists anyone to become a Muslim. For example, his uncle, who supported him throughout his life, did not embrace Islam,” said Agung.
While conversion is a personal matter guided by Allah, Agung emphasized that Muslims are still obligated to share the teachings of Islam. However, this should always be done with respect and without coercion.
If a student at a Muhammadiyah institution decides to embrace Islam voluntarily, they are welcome, but no one should ever feel pressured to convert.
When it comes to tolerance within Muslims, Agung underlined the importance of basing actions and decisions on the Qur’an and Sunnah. These principles, he explained, ensure harmony and unity among Muslims.
