Introduction

When comparing the religious practices and attitudes between Indonesia and the Philippines, several nuances emerge. While both countries have significant religious influences, the approaches and implementations can vary greatly. This article explores these differences based on personal experiences and observations.

Religion and National Contexts

Indonesia, being the world's largest Muslim-majority country, is often considered more religious due to the significant influence of Islam in its society. However, the nature of religious practice in Indonesia is more nuanced than often perceived.

On the other hand, the Philippines, predominantly Catholic, has a deeply ingrained religious culture, which is evident in its societal fabric. However, the extent of religious observance and implementation in daily life can vary, leading to differing conclusions about the level of religiosity.

Religious Practices and Showcasing

Indonesians, especially in parts of Java and Sumatra, tend to showcase their religious identities through clothing, language, and social behavior. The use of Islamic clothing and Arabic words is common, and religious discourse is frequently used to justify social behaviors. The Indonesian Religious Affairs Ministry plays a significant role in overseeing religious activities, leading to a regulated but often superficial application of religion.

Conversely, in the Philippines, religious practices are more deeply integrated into daily life. The emphasis is on emotional and heartfelt expressions of faith, which can be observed in various cultural practices and traditions. While religious laws and beliefs are enforced, there is also a significant degree of individual freedom and personal interpretation within the Catholic framework.

Religious Piety and Application

The piety of both religious groups, Islamic in Indonesia and Catholic in the Philippines, can be compared based on their adherence to key tenets of their faith. Mainstream Islamic teaching has more restrictive rules, including dress codes, dietary restrictions, and daily prayers, which can often be observed in Indonesian practice.

However, it is noted that Indonesian Muslims tend to break many of these rules, especially with regards to alcohol consumption and non-religious clothing. In contrast, Filipino Christians, while also adhering to religious principles, have more lenient interpretations and application of these rules.

Attitudes and Social Impact

The approach to religion in Indonesia is often more rational and inclusive. The Sunni Islamic background and the Dutch colonial heritage influence this more rational and less puritanical approach. The implementation of religion in government mirrors this rationality, leading to more pragmatic and less emotional decision-making.

In the Philippines, the Catholic and Spanish heritage contribute to a more emotional and traditional approach to religion. There is less space for non-Catholic liberal practices, particularly concerning LGBT issues. Nonetheless, there are instances of emotional and fervent religious devotion, such as the Nazareno groups and televangelism, which are less prominent in Indonesia.

Corruption and Religious Practice

Despite the importance of honesty in both religions, corruption is unfortunately prevalent in both Indonesia and the Philippines. This makes it difficult to establish them as exemplary religious nations. However, it is notable that the level of religious practice does not necessarily correlate with the level of corruption in these countries.

Conclusion

The religious practices and attitudes in Indonesia and the Philippines, while both deeply influenced by their respective faiths, differ significantly in terms of how these religions are applied and integrated into daily life. The rational and inclusive approach in Indonesia contrasts with the emotional and traditional approach in the Philippines, leading to different levels of religiosity and practice.