Malang, April 29, 2025 – In a solemn atmosphere during a Tazkirah, Sufism lecture and joint prayer gathering held on Monday evening (April 28), Prof. Mas’ud delivered a profound call for worshippers to deepen their spirituality by emulating the sainthood of Abdul Qadir Gilani. The event was also attended by Afeefuddin Al-Jailani, a direct descendant of the revered scholar.
Known as Sultanul Auliya (Leader of the Saints), Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Jailani is among the most frequently commemorated figures through the recitation of Al-Fatihah by Indonesian Muslims, particularly members of Nahdlatul Ulama.
In his remarks, Prof. Mas’ud reflected on Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Jailani as a towering spiritual figure renowned not only for his profound mastery of Islamic jurisprudence and Sufism, but also for his steadfast commitment to spreading goodness.
“His sainthood is reflected not merely in his scholarship, but in his enduring deeds that continue to benefit humanity centuries after his passing,” he said.
He added that institutions established by Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Jailani remain active to this day, sustaining social initiatives, including regular support for orphans for more than six centuries.
Prof. Mas’ud expressed appreciation to attendees for their presence at the gathering.
“There are many distinguished figures here tonight whom I cannot mention individually. If I were to name them all, we might be here until dawn,” the Director of Postgraduate Studies remarked in a light-hearted tone.
Rector of Universitas Islam Malang, Prof. Junaidi Mistar, also introduced the university to Sheikh Afeefuddin during the occasion.
He conveyed hope that the visit would mark the beginning of stronger ties with academic institutions in Iraq. UNISMA currently maintains international partnerships with universities in Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Egypt.
Prior to the Tazkirah delivered by Sheikh Afeefuddin Al-Jailani, the evening program also featured the distribution of aid to orphans, reflecting the social values exemplified by Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Jailani.
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