Breaking Down Religious Boundaries : The Construction of Peace in Susuru, West Java

Abstract

This study is qualitative research. Data was collected through three methods. First, participant-observation was done by participating in the activities undertaken by the four communities. Such activities include: daily life, weddings, funerals and tahlilan; construction of houses of worship; celebration of religious holidays; and cleaning the village. Second, semi-structured interviews was done with government officials, religious leader, and ordinary people. Third, personal documentation , include camera, sound recorder, field-note to maintain data accuracy and so library data to support research data. Field visits were conducted during the period January to April 2013, but early research has been conducted by researchers before the study began. The interview considered the fairness on the amount of representatives from each of the four communities. Interviews have been conducted with over 20 respondents representing public figures and ordinary people with diverse religious backgrounds.

This study concludes that the shared values of Susuru community that are based on the belief in  Susuru kinship ties are and effective foundation in integrating citizens both at the elite level and the mass level. the result of this study cannot be generalized. Object of study and period of research would affect the results

Keywords: Religious Boundaries, the Construction of Peace