National Santri Day: Celebrating Indonesia's Islamic Students and Their Role in National Unity and Progress

National Santri Day: Celebrating Indonesia's Islamic Students and Their Role in National Unity and Progress

National Santri Day, celebrated annually on October 22 in Indonesia, is a significant occasion that pays homage to the "santri" — students of Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) — for their historical contributions to the nation's struggle for independence and their ongoing influence in shaping the country’s religious, social, and cultural fabric. The celebration of this day goes beyond mere symbolism; it represents the acknowledgement of the role that santri have played in fostering national unity, promoting education, and upholding moral and ethical values in Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation.

The history of National Santri Day dates back to the critical moments of Indonesia's fight for independence from Dutch colonial rule. However, the official designation of the day was made in 2015 by President Joko Widodo, as a tribute to the santri’s historical role in defending the country, particularly their contribution to the Indonesian revolution. To understand the significance of this day, one must delve deeper into the history of Indonesia’s independence movement, the evolution of Islamic education in the country, and the central role that santri have played in both religious and political life.

Historical Background of Santri and Pesantren in Indonesia

The term "santri" refers to students who study at pesantren, Islamic boarding schools, under the guidance of a "kyai," a religious teacher or cleric. The pesantren system has been an integral part of Indonesia’s educational and religious landscape for centuries, dating back to the arrival of Islam in the archipelago in the 13th century. Pesantren have traditionally been centers of Islamic learning, where students not only study religious texts but also learn about character building, ethics, and the importance of community service.

Islam in Indonesia has a unique character, blending local cultural practices with Islamic teachings. This syncretic approach has allowed pesantren to serve as not only religious institutions but also as custodians of local traditions and culture. Over time, pesantren became deeply embedded in rural communities, providing not just religious education but also acting as centers for economic, social, and political mobilization.

The role of santri and pesantren in Indonesia’s history is particularly significant during the struggle against colonialism. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established colonial control over much of the Indonesian archipelago by the early 17th century, and this control was later formalized under direct Dutch colonial rule in the 19th century. During this period, pesantren became important centers of resistance against colonial domination. Many pesantren leaders, or kyai, were involved in anti-colonial activities, using their influence to inspire local communities to resist the Dutch.

The "Resolusi Jihad" and the Role of Santri in Indonesia's Independence

One of the most critical moments in the history of Indonesia’s independence struggle and the role of the santri was the issuing of the "Resolusi Jihad" (Jihad Resolution) by Hadratus Shaykh Hasyim Asy'ari, the founder of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia. On October 22, 1945, just a few months after Indonesia had declared its independence on August 17, 1945, the newly established Indonesian republic faced the threat of reoccupation by Dutch colonial forces, which were backed by the Allied powers. These forces aimed to retake control of Indonesia following Japan’s surrender at the end of World War II.

In response to this existential threat, Hasyim Asy'ari issued a fatwa, or religious decree, known as the "Resolusi Jihad." This decree called upon Muslims, especially the santri, to defend the fledgling Indonesian republic from foreign invaders. The fatwa framed the defense of the nation as a religious duty, urging Muslims to fight in the name of jihad (struggle) to protect their homeland from being colonized again.

The "Resolusi Jihad" had a profound impact on the course of Indonesia’s independence struggle. Thousands of santri and kyai heeded the call and took up arms to defend the republic, particularly during the Battle of Surabaya in November 1945, one of the bloodiest and most decisive battles in the Indonesian National Revolution. The battle, which pitted Indonesian freedom fighters against British and Dutch forces, demonstrated the determination of the Indonesian people, including the santri, to achieve independence.

The involvement of the santri in the Battle of Surabaya and other key conflicts during the revolution cemented their reputation as defenders of the nation. Their contribution was not just military; it was also ideological, as the fatwa issued by Hasyim Asy'ari helped frame the struggle for independence as both a national and religious duty, thus mobilizing a broader segment of the population to resist colonialism.

The Establishment of National Santri Day

In recognition of the vital role that santri and kyai played in the fight for independence, President Joko Widodo declared October 22 as National Santri Day in 2015. The choice of date is significant, as it marks the anniversary of the issuance of the "Resolusi Jihad" by Hasyim Asy'ari in 1945. By officially designating this day, the government acknowledged the contributions of the santri to the nation’s history and underscored the importance of pesantren in shaping Indonesia’s identity as a pluralistic, democratic, and religiously diverse society.

National Santri Day is not just a celebration of the past; it is also an occasion to reflect on the continued relevance of santri and pesantren in modern Indonesia. Today, pesantren remain important centers of education and religious life in the country, with millions of students studying in thousands of pesantren across the archipelago. These institutions continue to play a crucial role in shaping the moral and ethical values of Indonesian society, promoting tolerance, moderation, and a deep commitment to social justice.

The declaration of National Santri Day also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the values of independence, national unity, and religious pluralism that the santri fought for during the revolution. In a country as diverse as Indonesia, with its more than 17,000 islands and hundreds of ethnic groups, the santri tradition of promoting unity in diversity remains highly relevant.

The Role of Santri in Modern Indonesia

In contemporary Indonesia, the role of the santri extends beyond their historical contributions to the independence movement. Santri, through the pesantren system, continue to be vital contributors to Indonesia’s educational landscape. While pesantren were traditionally focused on Islamic religious studies, many modern pesantren have expanded their curricula to include subjects such as mathematics, science, and social studies, in addition to religious education. This has helped prepare santri for a wide range of careers, from religious leaders to professionals in various fields.

Moreover, the santri community has produced numerous influential leaders in Indonesian society, including political figures, academics, and activists. Many prominent Indonesian leaders, including former presidents Abdurrahman Wahid (commonly known as Gus Dur) and Joko Widodo, have been influenced by the pesantren tradition. Gus Dur, in particular, was a staunch advocate of pluralism and interfaith dialogue, and his leadership of Nahdlatul Ulama helped shape the organization’s commitment to promoting moderate Islam and national unity.

In addition to their role in education and leadership, santri have also been at the forefront of efforts to address some of Indonesia’s most pressing social and economic challenges. Many pesantren have established community development programs, providing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to underprivileged communities. These initiatives reflect the pesantren tradition of service to society, which emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and working for the common good.

The influence of santri extends to the political realm as well. Indonesia’s political landscape has long been shaped by the involvement of Islamic organizations, including Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, another major Islamic organization in the country. These organizations, with their roots in the pesantren tradition, have played a key role in advocating for social justice, human rights, and democratic governance. The santri community has been an important part of this broader movement for political reform, helping to promote values such as transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

National Santri Day and Religious Tolerance

One of the key values that National Santri Day celebrates is religious tolerance. Indonesia, with its diverse religious landscape, has long prided itself on its tradition of religious pluralism and interfaith harmony. The santri community, through its emphasis on moderate Islam and respect for other faiths, has been a central force in promoting this tradition.

Pesantren have historically been places where students learn not only about Islamic teachings but also about the importance of coexisting peacefully with people of different faiths. This emphasis on tolerance is deeply rooted in the pesantren tradition, which values respect for diversity and the promotion of social harmony. In a world where religious extremism and intolerance are on the rise, the pesantren tradition of moderate Islam serves as a powerful counter-narrative, demonstrating that religious values can be a force for peace and unity rather than division.

National Santri Day provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of these values in today’s society. In recent years, Indonesia has faced challenges related to religious intolerance and extremism, with instances of sectarian violence and discrimination against religious minorities. The celebration of National Santri Day serves as a reminder of the need to uphold the values of tolerance and pluralism that have long been a hallmark of Indonesian society.

The Future of Santri and Pesantren in Indonesia

As Indonesia continues to evolve, the role of santri and pesantren will remain crucial in shaping the future of the nation. Pesantren are not only centers of religious education but also important institutions for fostering leadership, social responsibility, and civic engagement. The values instilled in santri — such as discipline, self-reliance, and a commitment to social justice — will continue to be essential as Indonesia grapples with the challenges of the 21st century, including economic inequality, environmental degradation, and political instability.

The celebration of National Santri Day offers a moment to reflect on the contributions of santri to Indonesia’s past, present, and future. It is a day to honor the sacrifices made by the santri in the struggle for independence and to recognize their ongoing role in building a more just, inclusive, and prosperous Indonesia. As the nation looks to the future, the values and traditions of the santri will undoubtedly continue to play a vital role in shaping the identity and direction of Indonesia.

Photo : Freepik

Share this

Earthisone