Veterans’ Contributions to JSN 45–Based Humanistic Da’wah in Strengthening Religious Moderation

Abstrak

This study examines veterans’ contributions as agents of humanistic da’wah through the transmission of the Soul, Spirit, and Values of 1945 (Jiwa, Semangat, dan Nilai-Nilai 45 [JSN 45]) in strengthening religious moderation. Previous studies have largely positioned veterans as historical witnesses, sources of nationalism, or disseminators of JSN 45, while studies of da’wah and religious moderation have focused on religious organizations, preachers, educational institutions, and media. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, this study employed in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation involving veterans affiliated with the Indonesian Veterans Legion (Legiun Veteran Republik Indonesia [LVRI]) in Banyuwangi. Data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña. The findings show that veterans’ experiences of struggle provide moral-historical authority that strengthens the persuasive force of JSN 45 through exemplary conduct, social activities, community interaction, and intergenerational dialogue. Among the four indicators of religious moderation, national commitment receives the strongest empirical support, while tolerance, nonviolence, and accommodation of local culture emerge through solidarity, the recontextualization of struggle, and community engagement. The study’s novelty lies in demonstrating that veterans contribute to religious moderation primarily through civic and humanitarian ethics rather than direct religious instruction.