Islamic Educational Thought of Khatib Imam Maulana Abdul Munaf: Contributions to the Syattariyah Sufi Order (1955–2022)

Sudirman Sudirman; Duski Samad; Ahmad Taufik Hidayat; Devi Syukri Azhari

doi:10.35445/alishlah.v18i2.9118

Islamic Educational Thought of Khatib Imam Maulana Abdul Munaf: Contributions to the Syattariyah Sufi Order (1955–2022)

Sudirman Sudirman, Duski Samad, Ahmad Taufik Hidayat, Devi Syukri Azhari

Abstract

The contributions of local Islamic scholars to educational thought remain underrepresented in contemporary Islamic education literature, particularly within Sufi traditions. One such scholar is Khatib Maulana Abdul Munaf (1955–2022), a prominent Syattariyah leader in West Sumatra whose educational ideas have significantly influenced religious learning and spiritual development within local Muslim communities.This study aims to examine the Islamic educational thought of Khatib Maulana Abdul Munaf and analyze its contributions to the educational practices of the Syattariyah Sufi Order.This research employed a qualitative approach using a historical-textual design. Primary data were obtained from Abdul Munaf’s manuscripts, documented teachings, and in-depth interviews with seven informants, including Syattariyah scholars, former students, a family member, and a community leader. Additional data were collected through field observations in Syattariyah learning environments. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis, while triangulation and member checking were applied to ensure trustworthiness.The findings reveal that Abdul Munaf’s educational philosophy is founded upon three interconnected dimensions: spiritual purification (tazkiyah al-nafs), intellectual development (‘ilm), and moral formation (akhlaq). His educational model emphasizes the integration of religious and worldly knowledge, the central role of the murshid as both educator and spiritual mentor, and the preservation of surau-based learning traditions. The study further demonstrates that his educational thought offers a holistic framework that combines spiritual discipline, ethical development, and intellectual growth.Abdul Munaf’s educational philosophy contributes significantly to contemporary Islamic education by providing a Sufi-based model that integrates spirituality, morality, and learning. His thought highlights the continuing relevance of local Islamic intellectual traditions in addressing modern educational and moral challenges.

Keywords

Islamic education; Khatib Maulana Abdul Munaf; Syattariyah Order; moral education; spiritual formation

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v18i2.9118