Multimadhhabic Sufism in Pesantren Education

This study explores the integration of multimadhhabic Sufism in pesantren education through an epistemological and practical lens, focusing on two major Islamic boarding schools in East Java: Pesantren Salafiyah Syafi’iyah Sukorejo and Pesantren Zainul Hasan Genggong. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and a multi-case design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. The findings reveal that both pesantren embrace multiple Sufi traditions, including those of al-Ghazali, al-Junaid, Abu Hasan al-Shadhili, and Abdul Qadir al-Jailani. These affiliations serve as epistemological frameworks shaping the curriculum and as the basis for students' spiritual practices. Sukorejo emphasizes spiritual experience (dzauq) and classical texts like Ihya’ ‘Ulum al-Din and al-Ghunyah, while Genggong focuses more on riyadlah and wirid practices, particularly influenced by Abdul Qadir al-Jailani through manaqib recitations and daily litanies. The study concludes that this pluralistic Sufi orientation does not generate doctrinal conflict but instead enriches the intellectual and spiritual heritage of pesantren. Multimadhhabic Sufism contributes significantly to shaping moderate, ethical, and spiritually profound student character. These findings suggest that the integration of diverse Sufi traditions offers a valuable alternative for strengthening Islamic education amidst modern spiritual crises, highlighting affective and transcendental dimensions in learning.