Amid the digital age’s rapid changes, Pesantren Salafiyah Syafi’iyah Sukorejo in Situbondo, East Java, upholds a unique tradition: every new santri must undergo a 41-day riyadlah (spiritual exercise).
During these initial 41 days, new santri are isolated from the outside world, without any communication with family or friends. This period is called the masa ta’aruf santri (introduction period for santri).
What are the benefits and objectives? The riyadlah is not merely about cutting off access to the outside world; it provides a space for contemplation and self-adjustment for new santri.
In an instant digital era, this tradition encourages santri to adapt to their new environment, forge friendships, and build a sense of camaraderie among fellow santri.
What are the benefits that all new santri can gain from this tradition? Here are some positive outcomes of the masa ta’aruf:
Building Independence and Mental Resilience
Separated from their families and free from gadget distractions, santri are encouraged to become more self-reliant and solve problems together. They learn to take care of themselves, develop discipline, and adapt to the boarding school’s regulations.
Fostering a Sense of Family and Solidarity
Without external communication, santri are motivated to get to know each other, share stories, and build a familial bond. This fosters solidarity and mutual support among santri, creating a comfortable and secure environment.
Deepening Religious Understanding
The riyadlah period is an opportunity to focus on deepening religious knowledge and morals. santri participate in intensive religious studies, learn the Quran, and engage in collective spiritual activities. This aims to instill strong religious and moral values as the foundation for life at the boarding school.
Discovering Life’s Meaning
In a digital era full of distractions, the riyadlah during the masa ta’aruf encourages santri to reflect on themselves and discover the true meaning of life. They are encouraged to draw closer to Allah SWT and cultivate gratitude for the blessings of life.
Aiding Adaptation
While the 41-day riyadlah is not an instant solution to make every student immediately comfortable at the boarding school, it has proven effective in helping new santri adapt to their new environment, build strong mental resilience, and develop a love for the school.
Beyond mere introduction, the 41-day riyadlah provides a valuable experience for new santri. In a digital age rife with challenges, this tradition offers space for contemplation, self-discovery, and the reinforcement of religious and moral values. This provides invaluable preparation for santri as they pursue their education and future life.
As we know, the influence of gadgets is inseparable from the daily lives of new santri before entering the boarding school. The masa ta’aruf is the solution to help new santri forget their habits and move on to a new world with new friends after the introduction period.