Kiai and Alfiyah Ibn Malik maintain a close connection within the Islamic scholarly tradition in Indonesia. Kiai refers to scholars possessing authority and influence, particularly within the traditional Islamic educational institutions known as pondok pesantren. Meanwhile, Alfiyah Ibn Malik is a classic text comprising short verses that encompass various aspects of the Arabic language and religious sciences. This book serves as a primary reference for studying Arabic grammar, morphology, and vocabulary—essential for comprehending the language of the Qur’an and Hadith.
Kiai play a significant role in explaining Alfiyah Ibn Malik to students (santri) at pesantren. They not only teach the text directly but also provide profound insights into the meanings behind each verse.
These scholars ensure that the messages within Alfiyah are effectively translated into the context of daily life. Beyond being a tool for learning Arabic, Alfiyah also serves as an initial foundation for understanding other Islamic texts. Kiai leverage Alfiyah as a basis for constructing broader knowledge pertaining to religious understanding and Islamic literature.
The teaching of Alfiyah Ibn Malik by the kiai reflects their dedication to preserving the inherited Islamic scholarly tradition. They not only impart knowledge but also create an environment enabling students to learn with dedication, patience, and a love for knowledge. However, teaching Alfiyah is not the ultimate goal but rather part of a greater effort to nurture a generation that comprehends Islamic values, possesses noble character, and can apply religious teachings in their everyday lives.
While time progresses, the role of kiai in explaining Alfiyah Ibn Malik and religious knowledge remains timeless. They persist as pillars in disseminating knowledge and Islamic values, upholding the continuity of the Islamic scholarly tradition, and aiding the younger generation in profound comprehension of religious teachings. Therefore, it is crucial to honor and appreciate kiai and Alfiyah Ibn Malik as invaluable cultural and scholarly heritage for the Muslim community in Indonesia.”