indonesia is predominantly a Muslim country, with islam being the religion of the majority of its population. About 87% of Indonesians identify as Muslim, making it the country with the largest Muslim population in the world. However, indonesia is not an Islamic state; it is a secular nation that officially recognizes six religions: islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, hinduism, buddhism, and Confucianism.
hinduism has a significant presence, especially on the island of Bali, where the majority of the population practices Hinduism. Bali's Hindu culture is distinct, blending ancient Hindu traditions with local Balinese customs, and it is a major cultural and religious center within Indonesia.
Historically, hinduism and buddhism were dominant in the region before the arrival of islam in the 13th century. Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms, such as Majapahit and Srivijaya, played a crucial role in shaping the early history and culture of Indonesia. The remnants of these civilizations, such as the famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples, are still important cultural landmarks today.
While islam is the dominant religion, Indonesia's religious diversity is reflected in its constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and the coexistence of multiple faiths within the country. This multicultural aspect is a key part of Indonesia's national identity.
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