OMAH TANI AS A PRACTICE OF INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE BASED ON DIA-PRAXIS AND DECOLONIZATION

Abstract

Interfaith dialogue in Indonesia is generally framed as a formal religious forum oriented toward theological
consensus, which may limit more comprehensive engagement across different social contexts. This approach
often to overlooks the dynamics of interreligious praxis that grow organically in social spaces, particularly
in the context of agrarian movements and struggles for structural justice. This study aims to examine the
Omah Tani community in Batang, Central Java, as a manifestation of interfaith dialogue rooted in agrarian
solidarity and collective action. Using a qualitative case study design, data is collected through in-depth
interviews, observations, and documentation and analysis. The analysis is conducted thematically, drawing
on the theoretical frameworks of dia-praxis and the decolonization of religion, to explore how expressions
of faith are realized in social actions that transcend doctrinal and institutional boundaries. The research
findings indicate that interfaith interaction within the Omah Tani community takes place through collective
work in land management, agrarian policy advocacy, and interreligious spiritual practices. This form of
engagement creates a participatory and horizontal dialogue space, where solidarity becomes the foundation
of inclusive and transformative religiosity. This research offers a conceptual contribution to expanding the
paradigm of interfaith dialogue, from one that previously focused solely on theological discussions among
elites to one realized through collective action. By examining Omah Tani’s experience, this research
demonstrates that faith or religion is not merely an individual expression but also a collective force in the
struggle for justice. The case of Omah Tani demonstrates that interfaith dialogue can transcend exclusivity
and “colonial” perspectives, growing in a collaborative space grounded in solidarity and commitment to
vulnerable groups.