Law and Theology in Dialogue: Historical Roots, Jurisprudential Influence, and Global Perspectives

Edi Purwanto

doi:10.30648/dun.v10i1.1733

Law and Theology in Dialogue: Historical Roots, Jurisprudential Influence, and Global Perspectives

Edi Purwanto

Abstract

This study explores the enduring and multifaceted relationship between law and theology through a systematic literature review (SLR) of scholarly works published between 2006 and 2024, sourced exclusively from the Scopus database. It identifies six key thematic areas: historical intersections, theological influence on jurisprudence, comparative law and theology, theological normativity in legal frameworks, the Indonesian context, and contemporary challenges. Special attention is given to Indonesia as a unique case of legal pluralism, where Islamic theology plays a prominent role. Yet, Christian theological influences persist indirectly through Dutch colonial legal transplants, most notably in the KUHP, KUHPer, and KUHD. The finding reveals that law and theology, while distinct in methodology, are interdependent in their pursuit of justice, human dignity, and moral order. This study underscores the relevance of theological insights for enriching legal systems and calls for more excellent interdisciplinary dialogue to address ethical, social, and legal complexities in pluralistic societies.

Keywords

canon law; colonial legacy; Indonesian law; legal pluralism; theological normativity

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.30648/dun.v10i1.1733