Epistemology Of Religious Guidance in Correctional Institutions: A Library Study of Religious Guidance Programs in Indonesian Correctional Settings

Abstract

Religious guidance is a fundamental program in the correctional system aimed at reshaping the personality and character of inmates so that they possess religious awareness, noble morals, and readiness to reintegrate into society. This study examines the epistemology of religious guidance for inmates in Indonesian correctional institutions, focusing on sources of religious knowledge, learning methods applied, and the process of forming religious consciousness among fostered students. The study employs a qualitative approach with a library research design. Data were obtained from various literary sources relating to Islamic epistemology, religious guidance, Islamic education, and the correctional system, with contextual reference to programs documented at Class II A Bangkinang Correctional Institution. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis techniques. The findings indicate that religious guidance in Indonesian correctional institutions is built upon the integration of revelation, reason, and spiritual experience as primary sources of knowledge, analyzed through the bayani, burhani, and irfani epistemological frameworks. The learning methods applied include lectures, discussions, habituation, role modeling, worship practice, and personal approaches. This study concludes that an integrated epistemological approach in religious guidance significantly contributes to the formation of religious awareness, moral improvement, and behavioral transformation among inmates.