Mosque, Media, and Moderation: Reframing Islamic Religious Narratives in the Digital Public Sphere of Indonesia

Abstract

This study examines the role of the mosque in reframing moderate Islamic religious narratives within Indonesia’s digital public sphere. As digital media increasingly shape religious discourse, mosques are challenged to maintain their authority while adapting to new communication environments. The objective of this research is to analyze how the mosque functions as a narrative agent in producing, curating, and disseminating moderate Islamic messages through digital platforms. This study employs a qualitative exploratory design, using digital observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation at Masjid Agung Jami' Kota Malang. Data were analyzed through data condensation, data display, and verification to identify patterns of narrative reframing. The findings reveal that the mosque actively performs issue clarification, inclusive communication strategies, and adaptive content production to counter polarization in digital spaces. By integrating symbolic religious authority with digital literacy practices, the mosque strengthens public perceptions of religious moderation and social cohesion. The study concludes that traditional religious institutions remain relevant in the digital era when they strategically engage with media technologies to promote inclusive and contextual Islamic narratives.