Indonesia
This year I felt fortunate to be invited by Khofifah Indar Parawansa to visit directly the maqbarah (tomb complex) of the renowned grand master of the Qadiriyah Sufi order.
The visit was made in response to an invitation from Afifuddin Al Jailani, whom I have personally known for many years and who frequently attends religious gatherings in Indonesia.
He leads Islamic study assemblies and often shares virtual links to his lectures, including discussions on selected verses of the Qur’an in his regular study sessions in Kuala Lumpur.
This article continues the discussion from Reviving the Spirituality of the Qadiriyah Tariqa in the Modern World.
From a spiritual and Sufi perspective, many believe that modern people increasingly struggle with uncertainty in life and the negative consequences of modern civilization.
Islam is not only a religion but also a comprehensive way of life. The strength of the Muslim community lies not only in outward efforts but also in inner spiritual discipline, sincerity, and honesty.
Indonesia today can be seen as a new center of Muslim civilization, distinct from the era of the Rashidun Caliphate or the golden age of Cordoba, where progress can coexist with strong religious ethics and cultural refinement.
Therefore, revitalizing professional and prophetic spirituality will become one of the major tasks for Islamic civilization in the future.
The prominence of Abdul Qadir al-Jailani in the international Sufi tradition is beyond doubt. Followers of the Qadiriyah order are spread across India, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey, and Southeast Asia especially in Indonesia.
One example of the profound philosophical teachings of Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jailani can be found in the book Fawaidul Mukhtaroh, written by Ali bin Hasan Baharun.
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The book recounts how, during a gathering of knowledge, Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jailani appeared before one of the most learned scholars of his time. Among his companions, many asked for prayers and blessings from distinguished scholars.
“In one assembly, a companion asked Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jailani to pray for wealth, another asked for promotion and status, while the young Sheikh Abdul Qadir prayed instead for deeper knowledge and wisdom,” recalled Hafidz Karim, a participant in the spiritual visit.
Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jailani is often called Sultanul Auliya the leader of the saints because of his profound knowledge, exemplary character, and intense spiritual discipline. He distanced himself from worldly attachment and showed deep devotion and respect to his mother, virtues that complemented his lifelong commitment to humility and steadfastness.
During the month of Ramadan 1445 H, Governor Khofifah requested that Sheikh Afifuddin al-Jailani consider establishing a branch of his regular Islamic study circle and monthly spiritual gatherings in Indonesia, recognizing the large number of followers of the Qadiriyah order and the importance of sustained religious learning.
Interestingly, Sheikh Afifuddin responded with a condition to the governor. “If that is your wish, I suggest that you first make a pilgrimage to the tomb of Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jailani. Only then might it be possible to establish a branch of the Islamic study assembly in Indonesia,” he said, adding that the matter would be discussed in Baghdad.
During the spiritual visit to Baghdad, the legendary “city of a thousand and one nights” our delegation was invited to visit the tombs of revered saints, including that of Ali ibn Abi Talib, reflecting on various dimensions of leadership within the Muslim community, including the important role of women in shaping the nation’s future.
“Women, as described in the teachings of the Qur’an and the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad, are among the most unique and influential creations of God on earth,” Sheikh Afifuddin often emphasized in his gatherings.
Today, the Qadiriyah-Naqshbandiyah Order remains one of the most widely followed spiritual traditions within the Ahlussunnah wal Jamaah community.
The spiritual practices of the Qadiriyah-Naqshbandiyah path include dhikr, purification of the heart (tazkiyat al-qulub), the recitation of spiritual genealogies (manaqib), and collective completion of Qur’anic recitations. This spiritual path remains vibrant and influential, although the historic cultural link between the Indonesian archipelago and Iraq has weakened due to factors such as security perceptions and limited direct flight connections.
Looking ahead, young people who possess strong academic abilities and professional skills must also be strengthened with spiritual depth and noble character to face the uncertainties of modern life.
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Recently, many young people have experienced psychological pressure and emotional strain. The challenges of a highly technological world—often filled with superficiality—have led to increasing mental health struggles, including bipolar disorder, while nearly 45 percent of young people face difficulties finding employment in a rapidly changing global economy.
For this reason, religious study circles and spiritual assemblies that reinforce psychological resilience through faith-based approaches should be institutionalized using new methods that resonate with Generation Z.
Author:
Mas’ud Said
Director of Postgraduate Studies, Universitas Islam Malang
Chairman of the Ikatan Sarjana Nahdlatul Ulama Jawa Timur
