In the pesantren tradition, the relationship between santri and kiai is often hierarchical, with kiai as the highest authority figure in the scientific, spiritual, and social life of the pesantren. This raises the question: is this relationship a form of feudalism or more of adab and respect in Islam? To answer this, it is necessary to look at it from the point of view of sharia arguments and the development of pesantren in the modern era.
Pesantren also have a system that places the kiai as the center of knowledge and leadership. In many cases, santri are expected to obey the kiai without questioning the decisions made. This model is often compared to the feudal system, where there is a strong patron-client relationship. However, in Islam, respect for scholars is not a form of feudalism, but part of the adab towards knowledge. Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said:
“He is not one of us who does not respect the elders, does not love the younger ones, and does not know the rights of the scholars.” (Hadith narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, and Tirmidhi)
Respect for scholars is also reinforced in the word of Allah:
“O you who believe, obey Allah and obey His Messenger and the rulers among you.”
(QS. An-Nisa: 59)
Ulama in this case include kiai who guide people in religious knowledge. However, this obedience is not blind obedience, but within the limits of Islamic law.
Feudalism or Adab?
In Islam, obedience to the master should not be absolute as in the feudal system, where a subordinate must submit uncritically. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also reminded his followers to think critically and not follow leaders blindly:
“There is no obedience to creatures in disobedience to Allah.”
(Hadith narrated by Ahmad and Al-Hakim)
Moreover, Islam teaches that respect for scholars should be based on their knowledge and piety, not simply social position or tradition. Allah says:
“Verily, only the scholars fear Allah among His servants.” (QS. Fatir: 28)
Thus, respect for kiai must remain within the corridors of sharia. If there are teachings or orders that conflict with Islam, santri have the right to question and not follow them. Then the Transformation of the Relationship between Santri and Kiai In the digital era, santri's access to knowledge is getting wider. They not only learn from kiai, but also from various other sources such as digital books, online lectures, and academic discussions. This has begun to change the pattern of the relationship that was previously very hierarchical to a more dialogical one.
Many pesantren now encourage their students to think critically and independently, as in the word of Allah:
“So ask those who have knowledge if you do not know.” (QS. An-Nahl: 43)
This verse shows that seeking knowledge is an obligation, but it also emphasizes the importance of learning from competent people. Thus, santri must still respect kiai, but must also be active in seeking a broader understanding. Although in some aspects the relationship between santri and kiai appears feudal, the roots of this relationship are more about respect in Islam. Feudalism in the negative sense, which curbs freedom of thought, is contrary to Islamic teachings that encourage knowledge and understanding.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:
“Whoever takes the path to seek knowledge, Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.” (Hadith narrated by Muslim)
Therefore, this relationship must continue to develop in a direction that is more dialogical and adaptive to the times, without losing the values of adab and respect for the ulama. With a balance between adab and critical thinking, pesantren can continue to be a relevant and progressive educational institution in the modern era.
This paper is only the author's opinion as a response to the rise of individuals who often propagate and corner pesantren as if what is done by people who are included in the pesantren hierarchy including kiaiKiyai and santri is an act of commercialization of religion.
Wallahulmuafiq Ilaa Aqwamittoriq
Ade Furqon Hakim
(Chairman of the Student Executive Board of the Faculty of Ushuluddin and Adab)
