1 SURO, PAKDE BAS KIRAB PUSAKA RADEN BINTORO

Summary

The annual 'haul' of Syekh Bintoro in Tunggulsari, Kendal, commemorates the legacy of this religious figure, a descendant of Sunan Kalijogo. Held on 1 Muharram, the event features a procession, rituals like the washing of relics, and community participation. The Vice Regent of Kendal, Windu Suko Basuki, attended, highlighting the importance of preserving local cultural traditions and transforming the site into a religious tourism destination. Syekh Bintoro's teachings of Molimo — worship, learning, work, devotion, and unity — continue to inspire the community, reinforcing a deep connection to their spiritual heritage and the broader Islamic legacy in Indonesia.

Takeaways

• 😀 The event commemorates the legacy of Syekh Bintoro, a descendant of Sunan Kalijogo, through a traditional cultural and religious procession in Tunggulsari, Kendal.
• 😀 The event was attended by prominent local figures, including the Vice Regent of Kendal, Windu Suko Basuki, who expressed support for preserving cultural and religious traditions.
• 😀 The procession included a 'kirab' (parade) with people carrying offerings of fruits and vegetables, symbolizing the community's respect and gratitude.
• 😀 The ceremony marked the anniversary of Syekh Bintoro’s death, aligning with the Islamic New Year (1 Muharram) and the Asyura celebration.
• 😀 The key ritual in the event was the 'penjamasan pusaka' (ceremonial cleansing of sacred heirlooms), which involved the transfer of sacred items and the cleaning of the tomb of Syekh Bintoro.
• 😀 The Vice Regent of Kendal emphasized the importance of preserving cultural and religious heritage, and proposed making the Syekh Bintoro tomb a religious tourism destination.
• 😀 Syekh Bintoro is considered a spiritual leader and a key figure in spreading Islam in the region, as well as a descendant of Raden Fatah (Sultan Demak).
• 😀 The event highlighted the teachings of Syekh Bintoro, which include the 'Molimo' teachings: devotion to Allah, seeking knowledge, working both physically and spiritually, selfless service, and striving for spiritual unity.
• 😀 Local religious leaders, such as Habib Firdaus Al Munawar, explained the spiritual significance of the event, linking it to the broader Islamic tradition of honoring great figures who have contributed to the faith.
• 😀 The event is part of an ongoing effort to revitalize local religious traditions, strengthen community ties, and promote Kendal as a hub for religious tourism, drawing inspiration from the region's deep historical and spiritual roots.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Haul Syekh Bintoro event mentioned in the transcript?

The Haul Syekh Bintoro event is a cultural and religious tradition held to honor Syekh Bintoro, a descendant of Sunan Kalijogo, and to commemorate his contributions to the spread of Islam in the region. It includes a procession, the 'Kirab,' where descendants and local community members walk and carry offerings, as well as a ceremony to clean and replace the coverings of his grave. It coincides with the Islamic New Year, 1 Muharram, or 1 Suro.

Who is Syekh Bintoro, and why is he important in this tradition?

Syekh Bintoro was a descendant of Sunan Kalijogo, a prominent figure in the spread of Islam in Java, Indonesia. Syekh Bintoro played a crucial role in the region's Islamic history, particularly in the town of Kaliwungu, and is revered for his religious and cultural contributions. His legacy is celebrated annually during the Haul Syekh Bintoro.

What role did the Vice Regent of Kendal, Windu Suko Basuki, play in the event?

Windu Suko Basuki, the Vice Regent of Kendal, attended the Haul Syekh Bintoro event and actively participated in the procession, which included walking with the community and taking part in the ritual of 'penjamasan pusaka' (cleaning and rewrapping sacred relics). He also expressed his support for preserving such cultural and religious traditions and suggested that the location of Syekh Bintoro's grave be developed as a religious tourism site.

What are the key teachings associated with Syekh Bintoro and how are they integrated into the community?

Syekh Bintoro's teachings are based on five core principles known as 'Molimo,' which are: 'Manembah' (worshiping Allah), 'Maguru' (seeking knowledge both spiritually and worldly), 'Makaryo' (working with sincerity in both physical and spiritual matters), 'Mengabdi' (serving others with love and devotion), and 'Martopo' (unifying oneself in both body and spirit in devotion to Allah). These teachings continue to influence the community, especially in the form of religious observance and community service.

What is the significance of the 'Kirab' procession in the event?

The 'Kirab' procession is a symbolic event that involves participants walking together from the residence of Syekh Bintoro's descendants to his grave. During this procession, they carry 'gunungan' (mountains of offerings) that include fruits and vegetables, representing the community's respect and gratitude for Syekh Bintoro's spiritual and cultural legacy. The procession emphasizes the unity and collective spirit of the local community.

What role do local leaders and religious figures play in the event?

Local leaders, including the village head (Kades) and various religious figures, play important roles in the event by leading the ceremony and supporting its religious significance. Their participation helps to uphold the cultural and spiritual heritage of the community, ensuring the event's continuity and fostering a sense of shared religious identity.

What is the connection between the Haul Syekh Bintoro and the broader Islamic tradition?

The Haul Syekh Bintoro is deeply connected to the broader Islamic tradition, particularly through its commemoration of the life and teachings of Syekh Bintoro, a figure who helped spread Islam in Indonesia. The event coincides with the Islamic New Year, 1 Muharram, which is a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal of faith. It highlights the role of Islamic scholars and spiritual leaders in shaping the religious and cultural landscape of the region.

Why does Windu Suko Basuki advocate for developing the site as a religious tourism destination?

Windu Suko Basuki sees the potential for Syekh Bintoro's tomb and the surrounding area to become a religious tourism destination that could draw visitors interested in the history and culture of Islam in Indonesia. He believes that promoting the site would not only preserve the region's heritage but also stimulate the local economy and increase awareness of its religious significance.

How does the Haul Syekh Bintoro reflect the religious identity of Kendal?

The Haul Syekh Bintoro reflects the strong Islamic identity of Kendal, which is known as a religious town. The event brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to honor their shared heritage and reinforce their faith. It highlights the role of local leaders, religious figures, and the community in maintaining a vibrant religious atmosphere, underscoring Kendal’s reputation as a 'city of worship.'

What are the 'Molimo' teachings, and how are they practiced in the community?

The 'Molimo' teachings consist of five principles that guide personal and communal life: 'Manembah' (worshiping Allah), 'Maguru' (seeking knowledge), 'Makaryo' (working sincerely), 'Mengabdi' (serving with love), and 'Martopo' (achieving unity in spiritual and worldly pursuits). These teachings are practiced in the community through religious observances, educational pursuits, and acts of service to others, ensuring the continuity of Syekh Bintoro’s values in daily life.