1.Introduction

The examination of religion as a fundamental catalyst for social innovation is highlighted by its ethical and spiritual incentives that frequently surpass profit-driven objectives. Religious social capital, as described in the literature, functions as a distinct resource that promotes entrepreneurial activity, especially within cohesive religious communities, thereby augmenting the influence of social capital on innovation [1]. Moreover, research demonstrates that religion substantially affects social entrepreneurial intents among university students, with intrinsic motivation serving as a mediator, thereby emphasizing the intrinsic ethical principles that direct social entrepreneurs [2]. Furthermore, Islamic ethics have had a beneficial influence on social innovation, underscoring the idea that ethical frameworks rooted in religious beliefs can enhance entrepreneurial zeal and propel creative social initiatives [3]. Faith-based social entrepreneurship, especially within Indonesian mosques, illustrates how religious organizations can adeptly tackle social challenges while improving community welfare, showcasing the practical effects of merging faith with social innovation initiatives [4]. These findings collectively demonstrate the essential influence of religion in fostering social innovation via ethical incentives and community involvement [5].

The current literature about the impact of religion on social innovation indicates a notable research deficiency, as the convergence of both domains is little examined. Although certain studies have commenced exploring this confluence, they frequently concentrate on particular religious contexts or traditions, resulting in a largely unexplored larger comprehension of religion's role in social innovation. The framework for Islamic social entrepreneurship emphasizes the amalgamation of Islamic principles with social entrepreneurship, predominantly in Muslim-majority environments, indicating a necessity for a more expansive, interfaith approach [6]. The investigation into faith-based social entrepreneurship in Indonesia highlights the capacity of religious institutions, such as mosques, to facilitate social change; however, it is a case-specific analysis rather than a thorough assessment of religion's wider influence on social innovation [4]. Additional study, including the impact of Islamic ethics on promoting social innovation, highlights ethical aspects but fails to thoroughly investigate the varied religious impacts across distinct traditions [3]. Furthermore, cross-national studies examining religion and national innovation typically emphasize macro-level effects, such as the adverse correlation between religiosity and innovation capacity, while neglecting the micro-level mechanisms by which religion may promote social innovation [7]. The literature underscores the capacity of religious diversity to foster innovation, although this is frequently addressed in relation to patent activity rather than specifically to social innovation [8]. Moreover, whereas religious entrepreneurial societies exhibit resilience and socioeconomic equity, the precise mechanisms by which religious norms convert into social innovation are little examined [9]. Despite acknowledgment of religion's capacity to impact social innovation, the literature is deficient in a cohesive framework that synthesizes various religious traditions and their distinct contributions to social innovation, highlighting a significant research gap for future investigations to explore.

Religious beliefs and ideals substantially enhance social innovation by promoting ethical imperatives, societal togetherness, and humanitarian endeavors. Entrepreneurs guided by religious principles frequently demonstrate increased altruism, which bolsters their career persistence and propels social innovation initiatives, as indicated by research on religious entrepreneurs in China [10]. on the UAE, prosocial motivation, grounded on Islamic work principles, is recognized as a primary catalyst for social innovation, indicating that intrinsic motives can foster significant community efforts [11]. Moreover, Islamic ethics not only invigorate entrepreneurial zeal but also augment the creative process, underscoring the significance of ethical frameworks in social entrepreneurship [3]. Moreover, religious entrepreneurial communities on the Asian subcontinent illustrate how collective values and collaborative practices can mitigate socioeconomic inequities, fostering self-sufficiency and efficient income redistribution [9]. These results collectively demonstrate how religious values function as a distinct motivational framework for social innovation.

2.Theoretical Concept and Discussions

2.1.Conceptual Foundations

Religion significantly influences moral conduct and societal accountability by offering organized frameworks for ethical decision-making. Numerous religious traditions, including Islam, underscore concepts such as justice, equality, and compassion, which direct followers in their socioeconomic engagements and ethical decisions [12]. Islamic doctrines endorse practices such as Zakat and Waqf, which enhance social welfare and economic fairness, hence cultivating a feeling of communal responsibility [12,13]. Furthermore, research demonstrates that engagement in religious communities fosters prosocial behaviors in adolescents, including empathy and volunteerism, implying that religion cultivates moral reasoning and ethical behavior [14]. Moreover, religiosity has been associated with a heightened commitment to moral principles, since adherents frequently support deontic rules that emphasize authority and loyalty in ethical deliberations [15]. Religion functions as a fundamental framework that shapes individual conduct and fosters a communal sense of ethical accountability within society [16].

Social innovation is a technique designed to tackle community concerns through sustainable, economically feasible solutions that improve societal welfare and promote community-driven change. The key objectives encompass enhancing physical and mental well-being, fortifying social cohesion, and advancing environmental sustainability, in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) [17,18]. Integrating technology breakthroughs and multidisciplinary approaches can profoundly influence education and societal values, hence improving community life and responsiveness to contemporary concerns [19];[20]. Moreover, enterprises are progressively embracing social innovation to guarantee sustainability, fostering organizational growth while reducing adverse societal and environmental effects [21]. Social innovation acts as a catalyst for revolutionary change, highlighting the necessity of collaboration with natural systems to tackle urgent global challenges [18].

Religion and social innovation intersect in their common goal of societal transformation, with religion frequently offering a 'higher purpose' that motivates enduring social effect. The story of Abraham shows how faith may propel entrepreneurial ventures that produce beneficial societal transformations, demonstrating the capacity of religious ideals to inspire individuals toward significant activities [5]. Moreover, the interaction between religion and innovation demonstrates that religious institutions can promote social entrepreneurship via high-trust networks and ideological backing, which have traditionally stimulated community-driven ventures [22]. The spiritual aspects of social innovation emphasize the significance of self-awareness and communal identity, indicating that a profound comprehension of one's faith can result in transformative acts that tackle modern societal issues [23];[24]. Consequently, religion functions as a fundamental component that both motivates and maintains endeavors directed towards attaining significant societal transformation.

2.2.Key Constructs and Theoretical Lenses

Competencies like empathy, generosity, and ethical commitment, frequently cultivated through religious activities, profoundly impact leaders' prioritization of society welfare. Altruism, regarded as a spiritual and ethical attribute, arises from a cultural milieu that prioritizes spiritual values, promoting prosocial activity devoid of anticipated recompense [25]. Prosocial leaders, driven by empathy, engage in selfless actions to improve the welfare of their constituents, frequently prioritizing the collective good over personal ambitions [26]. Moreover, spirituality functions as an expansive motivational framework that surpasses material concerns, prompting leaders to incorporate ethical issues into their decision-making processes [27]. Research demonstrates a nuanced connection among spirituality, empathy, and altruism, indicating that spiritual experiences might augment these attributes, therefore fostering a leadership approach that is more altruistic and socially responsible [28]. Ultimately, these spiritual talents foster a more compassionate and sustainable business culture [29].

Self-transcendent virtues, including compassion and humility, are profoundly ingrained in diverse religious doctrines and substantially impact altruistic leadership. These principles motivate leaders to promote the welfare of others, promoting a servant-leadership model that underscores healing and consciousness, ultimately resulting in self-transcendence [30]. Furthermore, a spiritual-relational leadership paradigm emphasizes the significance of collaborative connections and a collective moral mission, informed by the ethical principles of prominent spiritual traditions [31]. This paradigm not only augments leaders' empathetic abilities but also motivates followers to participate in prosocial actions, as evidenced by the positive link between leader humility and follower motivation [32]. Moreover, self-transcendence assists individuals in enduring suffering by offering a wider viewpoint that contextualizes their difficulties, thus fostering resilience and social support networks [33]. These discoveries collectively demonstrate how self-transcendent principles can motivate leaders to make decisions that serve societal interests.

Self-transcendent virtues, including compassion and humility, are profoundly ingrained in diverse religious doctrines and substantially impact altruistic leadership. These principles motivate leaders to promote the welfare of others, promoting a servant-leadership model that underscores healing and consciousness, ultimately resulting in self-transcendence [30]. Furthermore, a spiritual-relational leadership paradigm emphasizes the significance of collaborative connections and a collective moral mission, informed by the ethical principles of prominent spiritual traditions [31]. This paradigm not only augments leaders' empathetic abilities but also motivates followers to participate in prosocial actions, as evidenced by the positive link between leader humility and follower motivation [32]. Moreover, self-transcendence assists individuals in enduring suffering by offering a wider viewpoint that contextualizes their difficulties, thus fostering resilience and social support networks [33]. These discoveries collectively demonstrate how self-transcendent principles can motivate leaders to make decisions that serve societal interests.

2.3.Mechanisms of Religious Influence on Social Innovation

Religious moral codes, especially those highlighting compassion and justice, constitute essential components for ethical innovation, promoting activities that promote communal welfare. Compassion, fundamental to numerous Eastern philosophies, is sometimes neglected in Western ethics; nonetheless, it is essential for moral decision-making, as it encompasses equity, favorable results, and concern for underprivileged populations [34]. The biblical scriptures emphasize a "justice imperative," promoting equal treatment and social justice, especially for the impoverished, hence highlighting the need for a just society [35]. Catholic social teaching underscores this by connecting compassion, solidarity, and empowerment, advocating for the active engagement of marginalized individuals in society instead of mere welfare assistance [36]. These moral imperatives collectively foster a culture of integrity and social responsibility, crucial for confronting modern ethical dilemmas [37,38]

Religious communities are essential in promoting social innovation due to their intrinsic networks that enable collaborative action, resource-sharing, and mutual accountability. Communities like Pesantren Rakyat Sumberpucung illustrate the utilization of social capital to tackle local issues by fostering programs that promote collaboration and resource sharing among members [39]. The notion of religious social capital emphasizes that involvement in these societies can stimulate entrepreneurial activities by utilizing distinctive social connections to efficiently mobilize resources [1]. Ecclesial communities greatly contribute to community work by mobilizing ecclesiastical capital to assist social rehabilitation and outreach initiatives, hence strengthening community resilience [40]. Moreover, in times of crisis, religious organizations have exhibited their capabilities for collective action by employing bonding, bridging, and linking social capital to deliver disaster relief, highlighting their adaptability and dedication to mutual assistance [41,42].

Spiritual and religious experiences significantly enhance individuals' resolve and commitment to social causes, fostering resilience and dedication. For instance, participation in short-term missions has been shown to solidify religious beliefs and increase engagement in religious activities among adolescents, thereby reinforcing their commitment to social justice initiatives [43]. Additionally, the concept of spiritual activism emphasizes the importance of inner spiritual work as a foundation for effective social change, highlighting themes such as interdependence and the necessity of spiritual practices to sustain motivation in activism [44]. Furthermore, spirituality serves as a broader motivational framework that transcends material interests, encouraging individuals to engage in socially responsible entrepreneurship and community-oriented efforts [27]. Lastly, religious institutions are identified as vital resources for mobilizing progressive social movements, providing both emotional support and spiritual motivation for participants [45]. Collectively, these insights illustrate how sacred experiences can profoundly influence social commitment and resilience.

2.4.Proposed Conceptual Framework

The conceptual model demonstrating how religion propels social innovation through intrinsic motivation, ethical imperatives, and communal support can be structured around many essential components. Spirituality acts as a significant motivator, prompting individuals to rise above material concerns and participate in socially responsible enterprise, therefore promoting creativity and innovation [27]. Secondly, ethical frameworks, especially those rooted in religious doctrines, augment entrepreneurial fervor, which is essential for maintaining social innovation initiatives [3]. Moreover, intrinsic spiritual inspiration, exemplified by a sense of vocational calling, profoundly impacts inventive behavior, indicating that spiritual leadership can augment motivation and synchronize personal values with collective objectives [46]. Additionally, religious leaders frequently assume the dual role of social and religious entrepreneurs, utilizing their spiritual capital to mobilize resources for community welfare, thereby strengthening the social fabric [47,4]. This paradigm highlights the relationship among spirituality, ethics, and community involvement in fostering social innovation.

Religious beliefs can substantially promote social innovation through multiple avenues, such as ethical direction, community engagement, and spiritual motivation. Religious teachings provide moral guidance that fosters ethical responsibility, encouraging individuals and organizations to tackle societal issues, exemplified by the incorporation of spirituality in social work practices that prioritize mutual benefit and collective well-being [48]. Community mobilization is illustrated by faith-based organizations, particularly African American churches, who utilize entrepreneurial spirituality to address urgent social issues, thereby promoting local economic growth [49]. Furthermore, spiritual inspiration, especially from Islamic viewpoints, promotes balanced reasoning and thankfulness towards the Creator, perhaps resulting in new solutions that enhance the quality of human life [50]. These channels collectively demonstrate how religious beliefs can initiate dramatic social change.

Religiously motivated social innovations establish a feedback loop that strengthens faith-based ideals, promoting humanitarian behavior and social transformation. Volunteer gleaning efforts, motivated by spiritual beliefs, tackle food insecurity while fostering community and purpose among participants, thus strengthening their dedication to altruism [51]. Faith-based social enterprises, exemplified by those founded in Indonesian mosques, illustrate the capacity of religious organizations to tackle socio-economic issues while enhancing community welfare, thereby reinforcing the principles of service and compassion intrinsic to their faith [4]. Moreover, the endorsement of human dignity by faith-based groups empowers economically disadvantaged individuals, enhancing their agency and fostering social transformation, thereby reinforcing the community's faith values [52]. These connections demonstrate how faith-based efforts can foster a circle of charity and social transformation, underpinned by the motivations and teachings of religious communities [53].

The notion of religion as a motivational and ethical force in social innovation enhances existing frameworks by incorporating Islamic values with social entrepreneurship. This integration highlights the significance of Islamic ethics in cultivating entrepreneurial zeal, which improves social innovation results through a balanced passion that promotes ethical decision-making and social responsibility [3,54]. Moreover, the framework for Islamic social entrepreneurship emphasizes the significance of collaborative and innovative methodologies informed by ethical values, thus effectively tackling societal difficulties [6]. The emphasis on prosocial motivation in Islamic economics indicates that intrinsic motives, enhanced by religious values, might foster more social innovation, especially in prosperous areas such as the UAE [11]. his synthesis bridges theoretical gaps and offers practical direction for practitioners, emphasizing the importance of linking social projects with ethical and religious foundations [55].

Faith-based and secular groups can greatly benefit from incorporating religious ideas into their strategies for social innovation, especially in promoting sustainability and inclusivity. Religious organizations, as indicated in numerous studies, have distinct ethical frameworks that can inform sustainable practices, underscoring the interrelation of social, environmental, and economic aspects [56,57]. Faith-based programs in Kenya exemplify how religious beliefs can promote community conservation and rural development, exhibiting a comprehensive approach to sustainability that corresponds with local requirements [58]. Moreover, the notion of faith-based corporate social responsibility (CSR) demonstrates how religious tenets can reshape societal obligations, fostering environmental stewardship and communal well-being [59]. As societies progressively acknowledge the significance of faith-based organizations in public service, these institutions can operate as essential collaborators in tackling social issues, utilizing their moral power to motivate collective action and promote societal stability [60].

Policymakers should implement a multidimensional strategy to promote the involvement of religious organizations in social innovation initiatives, while guaranteeing inclusivity and equity. Initially, acknowledging the crucial influence of faith on community beliefs and behaviors, policies ought to actively involve religious groups as essential players in developmental initiatives, utilizing their established trust and outreach proficiency [61]. A triadic paradigm that includes collaboration among the state, intermediary organizations, and local actors can establish a conducive ecosystem for social innovation, promoting synergy and resource sharing [62]. Moreover, governments should prioritize the democratization of access to knowledge and innovation, especially for disadvantaged populations, to guarantee that social innovations meet the needs of the impoverished and foster fair outcomes [63,64]. Ultimately, advocating for faith-based social entrepreneurship can leverage the distinctive viewpoints of religious organizations to address societal challenges effectively, as demonstrated by successful case studies in emerging environments [4].

2.5.Limitations and Future Research Directions

The issues posed by religious influence in social innovation generally pertain to inclusivity and the conflict between religious motivations and secular ethics. As countries grow more religiously diverse, the necessity for effective social inclusion tactics becomes critical, requiring a sophisticated comprehension of how to navigate this variety without intensifying social tensions [56]. In multicultural settings, addressing religious differences is essential, as neglecting this might result in societal unrest and conflict [65]. Moreover, although spirituality in the workplace is frequently perceived favorably, it may also result in ethical difficulties about the incorporation of varied spiritual manifestations, necessitating businesses to embrace a flexible and tolerant stance [66]. Moreover, religiosity has been demonstrated to adversely affect attitudes toward innovation, indicating that traditional religious roles may obstruct progressive social change and innovation initiatives [67,68]. Therefore, equilibrating these processes is crucial for cultivating inclusive and innovative social environments.

Future study at the nexus of religion and social innovation may gain from comparative analyses that investigate the impact of various theological frameworks on social entrepreneurial endeavors and their results. The current research underscores the necessity for empirical validation of proposed frameworks that distinguish between religious doctrines and the actions of their followers, particularly in the realm of socio-economic development [69]. Furthermore, examining the influence of religiosity as a catalyst in entrepreneurship may elucidate how diverse religious values inform business ecosystems and social efforts [70]. Moreover, including experiences from corporate social innovation by multinational corporations may yield a more comprehensive understanding of the interplay between institutional environments and religious beliefs in promoting or obstructing social innovation initiatives [71]. This comprehensive approach may provide significant insights into the interplay of religion, entrepreneurship, and social transformation.

3.Conclusion

Religion provides a distinctive motivational framework for social innovation by imparting a 'higher purpose' that inspires ethical, community-oriented actions. This approach is apparent in numerous instances where religious ethics and spirituality significantly inspire individuals and communities to engage in social entrepreneurship and innovation. Islamic principles substantially impact social innovation by cultivating harmonious passion among entrepreneurs, thereby enhancing their dedication to innovative social initiatives [3]. Religious social capital, a facet of spiritual capital, serves as a significant resource for entrepreneurial endeavors by utilizing the strong community connections and trust networks characteristic of religious affiliations [1]. The role of religious institutions, through ideological speech and leadership, has historically facilitated entrepreneurial activity aimed at addressing social challenges [22]. Furthermore, spirituality, as an expansive motivating framework, inspires individuals to surpass financial concerns, linking their entrepreneurial pursuits with ethical and socially responsible objectives [27]. In the UAE, prosocial motivation, shaped by Islamic work ethics, is recognized as a principal catalyst for social innovation, especially in a system where financial security diminishes dependence on extrinsic motivations [11]. Furthermore, religious entrepreneurial societies, particularly on the Asian subcontinent, illustrate how religio-sociocultural norms can promote socioeconomic justice and resilience via community-supported business endeavors [9]. These examples demonstrate how religion, with its ethical doctrines and communal frameworks, offers a persuasive incentive structure that not only fosters social innovation but also guarantees that such inventions match with overarching societal and ethical objectives.

Religiously inspired social innovation possesses considerable potential to tackle intricate social challenges by utilizing the distinctive advantages of faith-based organizations (FBOs) and promoting collaboration with secular entities. Faith-based organizations (FBOs) are increasingly acknowledged as essential participants in civil society, capable of fostering social change and development in various circumstances. Their capacity to profoundly interact with communities, frequently surpassing religious barriers, enables them to execute effective initiatives in domains such as conflict resolution, social cohesion, and public health. Engagement with religious actors necessitates an awareness of the varied objectives and political agendas present within faith communities, as these can either facilitate or obstruct beneficial social change. The Gandhian experience illustrates how faith-based initiatives can promote social transformation and harmonious cohabitation, emphasizing the capacity of religious ideals to enhance the collective welfare. In a post-secular culture, the incorporation of religious components into public discourse and social services is acknowledged as a method to mobilize community resources and enhance the public welfare. Collaborative initiatives between faith-based and secular organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina illustrate how reconciling the secular-religious gap can yield innovative solutions for social challenges, employing relational dialogism to promote dialogue and peace. As urban areas grow increasingly diverse, interfaith collaboration and the cultivation of social capital across religious boundaries are essential for societal resilience and human development. Envisioning a future where faith-based and secular entities work effectively may provide a more significant societal impact, tackling intricate social concerns through a mutual dedication to progress and peace.

Acknowledgements

I am very grateful for the academic tools and research that have inspired this study. My profound gratitude extends to my family for their steadfast support and encouragement during this journey. Your confidence in my work has been a wellspring of strength and motivation.