Religious Moderation Values In Islamic Education Textbooks At The Junior Secondary Level: A Curriculum Merdeka Perspective

Abstract

This research is driven by the need to strengthen the values of religious moderation in education, especially in junior high school, which is in line with the Independent curriculum orientation on character, diversity, and contextual learning. The purpose of this study was to find the values of religious moderation in the textbook of Islamic Religious Education and Ethics (PAI-BP) Grade VIII, analyze the picture of these values, and evaluate their relationship with improving character, diversity, and contextual learning. Qualitative content analysis was conducted for the structure of books, narratives, illustrations, and learning activities. The results showed that the principles of religious moderation are always present in the material, such as justice, balance, tolerance, respect for diversity, and rejection of extremism. The objectives of the Merdeka curriculum are aligned with conceptual explanations, the arguments of the Qur'an, examples from everyday life, and an invitation to critical thinking. As this study shows, PAI-BP books have built a solid foundation to enhance the moderate character and ability of learners to adapt to a diverse society. Further research is needed to see how this concept can be applied in learning.