STATE, RELIGION, AND POWER: A CRITICAL READING OF NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI IN THE CONTEXT OF INDONESIAN POLITICS

Abstract

This study focuses on analyzing the relationship between state, religion, and power in Niccolo Machiavelli's view in the context of politics in Indonesia. Indonesia is one of the countries that uses religious values as the basis for statehood.  The central position of religion often influences and determines the order of communal life. Machiavelli said that religion should be used as a means to build social order and strengthen state sovereignty. Machiavelli also emphasized that religion must be under the control of the state. The goal is to prevent religion from becoming a force that could threaten political stability and social dynamics. The method used in this research is qualitative through social analysis and literature study. This study found that religion is often used as a means to maintain power and mobilize the masses, leading to fanaticism and intolerance. Religion is no longer neutral, but is exploited for the purposes of power. This research contributes to raising awareness so that religion can be used as a means to build social order and strengthen the sovereignty of the state and its political system. Indonesia needs to strengthen a critical, rational public ethic based on Pancasila so that religion remains a source of values and morals, rather than a manipulative instrument.