The Synergy of Islamic Religious Education and Character Building to Foster Tolerance and Empathy

Abstract

Education plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's character and personality, especially during childhood growth and development. Amid the challenges of globalization and rapid technological advancements, moral character and good ethics have become increasingly important. One of the most effective ways to instill strong and noble character is through religious education and character-building programs. Islamic Religious Education, as one of the key pillars of Indonesia's education system, is not only aimed at teaching religious doctrines but also at shaping good morals and behavior in accordance with the values taught in the Qur'an and Hadith. One of the fundamental principles of Islam is the importance of tolerance and empathy toward others. Tolerance teaches us to respect differences, while empathy helps us understand and share the feelings of others. However, the application of these values in daily life often faces challenges, particularly in diverse and multicultural environments. Therefore, there is a need for synergy between Islamic Religious Education and character education to cultivate tolerance and empathy among students. Character education, which emphasizes morality and ethics in social life, plays a vital role in reinforcing the values of Islamic teachings. By integrating both, students are expected to grow into individuals who are not only religiously devout but also compassionate, respectful, and socially responsible. Although this concept has been widely implemented in various educational institutions, effectively applying it remains a significant challenge. Further research and deeper understanding are required to explore how the synergy between Islamic Religious Education and character education can create a generation that is not only intellectually capable but also morally upright and capable of making positive contributions to society. This study aims to analyze how the integration of Islamic Religious Education and Character Education fosters tolerance and empathy among students. A qualitative approach with a literature review method was used for data collection. The findings indicate that religious education that goes beyond dogmatic teachings and emphasizes social practice can enhance students' awareness of the importance of living harmoniously. Furthermore, cultivating character-based behaviors, such as care and cooperation, strengthens empathy in their social interactions. Therefore, the synergy between Islamic Religious Education and Character Education is essential in shaping a generation that is tolerant, compassionate, and of strong moral character.