TAREKAT DALAM CERMIN SEJARAH: FRAGMENTASI, IDENTITAS, DAN RESISTENSI DALAM TRADISI ISLAM INDONESIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT
This study analyzes the historical role of the tarekat in the Indonesian
Islamic tradition, comprehensively examining how this spiritual phenomenon
interacts with complex socio-political dynamics, which affect its existence,
fragmentation, and resistance. Since the 15th century, the tarekat has evolved from
an individual spiritual practice to an organized mass institution, playing a crucial
role in spreading and strengthening Islam in the archipelago. However, its
development has not been without challenges, including internal fragmentation
triggered by differences in interpretation and leadership transitions, as well as
external pressures from modernization and colonialism. Despite the threat of
division, the institute has managed to maintain its communal identity through
powerful mechanisms, such as genealogy that legitimizes spiritual authority,
collective rituals that bind followers, and the use of unique cultural symbols such
as Rifaiyah Batik. More than just maintaining internal cohesion, the tarekat has also
transformed into a significant force of resistance to colonialism. Events such as the
'Menteng War' and the Cilegon Rebellion of 1888 are clear evidence of how the
spiritual teachings of cleansing and jihad are manifested in acts of armed and
ideological resistance, proving that the tarekat is not only a spiritual fortress, but
also an effective political agent. Thus, this study concludes that the tarekat is a
highly adaptive and resilient phenomenon, able to evolve and remain relevant in the
midst of a wave of historical change, offering new insights into the resilience of
spiritual traditions in Indonesia.