Experiencing the Ethical Dilemmas of Faith: A Phenomenological Exploration of Religious Philosophy Among Indonesian Scholars

Abstract

This study discusses the relationship between religion and ethics, particularly how religious teachings influence moral decision-making amidst the challenges of modern values and social diversity. In the context of Indonesia, there exists a significant gap in research regarding the subjective experiences of religious scholars in facing ethical dilemmas, which has not been extensively explored through a phenomenological approach. This study employs a descriptive phenomenological method to delve into the meaning of the experiences felt by religious scholars in interpreting and applying religious teachings to ethical decisions in real life. The findings reveal that religious scholars often experience tension between strict religious doctrines and the dynamic social realities, requiring a more flexible interpretation of religious teachings. Another finding indicates that the ethical decisions of these scholars are heavily influenced by personal experiences, beliefs, and evolving social norms. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of reforming religious education to allow the integration of doctrinal traditions and contemporary ethical challenges. The research provides new insights into the complexity of the relationship between religion and ethics, with direct implications for the development of religious ethics education that is relevant to the context of a pluralistic society.