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Abdurrahman Wahid Quotes

Powerful Abdurrahman Wahid for Daily Growth

About Abdurrahman Wahid

Abdurrahman Wahid (often referred to as Gus Dur), born on September 7, 1940, in Blitar, East Java, Indonesia, was a prominent political and religious figure who served as the fourth President of Indonesia from 1999 to 2001. A descendant of Sunan Ngablaken, a Javanese hero of Islamic thought, Wahid's life was significantly influenced by his roots in both Islam and Indonesian culture. Wahid completed his formal education at the State Islamic University in Jakarta, where he focused on Islamic law (Shariah) and philosophy. His academic pursuits were intertwined with activism, leading him to co-found the Muhammadiyah organization in 1952, which aimed to modernize Islam through education, social services, and religious training. Wahid's political career took off in 1973 when he was elected as the Chairman of Muhammadiyah. His influential role continued to grow throughout the Suharto regime, culminating in his appointment as Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) in 1988. Wahid's tenure was marked by his vocal opposition to the authoritarian policies of the government, eventually leading to his dismissal in 1997. Following Suharto's resignation, Wahid played a crucial role in the formation of the Democratic Coalition and won the presidency in October 1999. His administration faced numerous challenges, including economic turmoil and religious tensions. Despite these obstacles, Wahid is remembered for his commitment to democratic reform and interfaith dialogue. Post-presidency, Wahid continued to contribute to Indonesian politics through the Peaceful Assembly Party (Haris). He passed away on December 30, 2009, leaving behind a rich legacy of promoting moderation and tolerance in both religious and political spheres. His quotes, such as "Democracy is not a spectator sport," encapsulate his belief in active citizen participation and the importance of democracy for a thriving nation.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Religion is not a tool for oppression."

The quote emphasizes that religion should never be used as an instrument to suppress or oppress individuals. Instead, it suggests that religion's role is about promoting unity, peace, and freedom – allowing every person to exercise their beliefs and human rights within its principles. This perspective encourages a more tolerant and inclusive society where the essence of religious teachings fosters understanding, respect, and love among diverse communities.

"Every human being has a right to choose his own destiny."

This quote by Abdurrahman Wahid asserts that every individual possesses the fundamental right to make decisions about their own life, or in other words, choose their personal destiny. It emphasizes the importance of autonomy and self-determination, suggesting that everyone should be allowed to shape their future according to their desires, values, and beliefs. This concept is crucial for fostering freedom, individuality, and personal growth within a society.

"Tolerance does not mean accepting everything as equal or indifferent. It means respecting each other's right to be different."

This quote emphasizes that tolerance doesn't equate to indifference or equality, but rather recognizing and valuing the inherent rights of others to maintain their unique perspectives, beliefs, and identities without judgment or discrimination. In essence, it calls for mutual respect and understanding among diverse individuals and communities while acknowledging our differences.

"The Quran says we should live by wisdom, not ignorance."

This quote emphasizes the importance of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom in our lives, rather than living in a state of ignorance or lack of awareness. It is a call to use the teachings of the Quran as a guide towards enlightenment, intellectual growth, and making informed decisions. In essence, it encourages us to seek truth, embrace knowledge, and make our lives more meaningful by acting with wisdom rather than relying on misinformation or ill-informed choices.

"There is no excuse for violence in the name of God."

This quote by Abdurrahman Wahid asserts that the use of violence cannot be justified, regardless of any claims made in its name, specifically when it is invoked under the pretext of serving or representing God. It underscores the belief that a peaceful approach should always prevail over aggression and conflict, as promoting peace and harmony is more aligned with divine principles. This idea challenges extremist perspectives that resort to violence, ultimately encouraging dialogue, understanding, and compromise in religious contexts and beyond.

If we cling to the institution of Islam, then we tend to defend it against whatever we see as a danger to it, so because of this we see now that many people are defending states, defending territories, defending everything institutional in the belief that they defend Islam.

- Abdurrahman Wahid

Against, Defending, Then, Territories

I am a follower of Mahatma Gandhi.

- Abdurrahman Wahid

I Am, Follower, Am, Gandhi

I don't talk in ifs.

- Abdurrahman Wahid

Talk, Ifs

Well, the most important thing about Islam is that we have to differentiate between two kinds of Islam. The first one is the institution of Islam... second, the culture of Islam.

- Abdurrahman Wahid

The Most Important, About, Differentiate

All too many Muslims fail to grasp Islam, which teaches one to be lenient towards others and to understand their value systems, knowing that these are tolerated by Islam as a religion.

- Abdurrahman Wahid

Understand, Which, Tolerated, Value Systems

I told the students that we can exert pressure without resorting to violence, and that we can move towards democracy without violence; that way, God will allow it.

- Abdurrahman Wahid

Will, Move, Allow, Exert

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