Ekspresi Identitas Keagamaan di Ruang Digital: Studi Etnografi Virtual Pada Konten Keagamaan Hindu di Platform Digital

Abstract

This study examines the expression of Hindu religious identity in digital spaces through a systematic literature review, aiming to analyze trends, forms, impacts, and research gaps. The method employed was a qualitative synthesis of nine scholarly articles published between 2019 and 2026, focusing on virtual ethnography and content analysis. The findings indicate that digital spaces are crucial arenas for the representation, negotiation, and construction of religious identity, with a significant increase in research interest from one study in 2019 to a peak of three studies in 2022. Forms of Hindu religious expression include the use of visual symbols and persuasive discourse (cyber-proselytism), influenced by platform algorithms that create homogeneous “content bubbles.” Although individuals are motivated to challenge dominant discourses (especially youth) and seek spiritual engagement, the correlation between religious learning motivation and religious moderation was found to be weak. Furthermore, this study highlights the shift in religious authority from traditional institutions to digital influencers, as well as individuals' vulnerability to hate speech and socio-religious controversies exacerbated by religious symbols in digital spaces. This study extends digital social identity theory by positing algorithms and online community interactions as complementary mechanisms in the formation of religious identity, demonstrating the need for critical digital literacy and stricter platform policies to balance freedom of expression and user protection.