Harmony Behind the Name; A Portrait of Religious Moderation in Suka Damai Village

Harmoni di Balik Nama; Potret Moderasi Beragama di Desa Suka Damai

Abstract

This study examines the practice of religious moderation in Suka Damai Village, Lemito District, Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo, as a tangible representation of harmony within a multicultural society. Using a qualitative approach with participatory observation and in-depth interviews, this research captures the social dynamics that demonstrate how values such as tolerance, mutual cooperation (huyula), and local wisdom serve as the foundation for interfaith harmony. In this village, differences in religion and ethnicity are not seen as divisions, but rather as productive spaces for meaningful encounters. The challenges of the digital era are also addressed by the village youth movement, which promotes religious moderation through social media and digital literacy. This study reveals that moderation is not merely a theoretical discourse but can become a lived culture that is nurtured and passed down. Suka Damai Village stands as evidence that harmony can be sustained through the synergy of local traditions, inclusive leadership, and adaptation to changing times. These findings offer valuable insights for developing a contextual and sustainable community-based model of religious moderation.