Jejak Langkah A. Hassan: Dari Singapura Hingga Bermuara di Persis

Summary

Ahmad Hasan, born in Singapore in 1887, was an influential Islamic scholar and leader. A key figure in the Persatuan Islam (Persis), he advocated for Islam and debated prominent figures, including President Soekarno, on nationalism. His deep religious knowledge led him to teach at Madrasahs and write several books, such as *Al-Furqon Tafsir Quran*. Hasan’s influence expanded through Persis, which he helped grow into an international organization with branches in places like Indonesia, Cairo, and Singapore. He passed away in 1958, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Islamic education and leadership.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ahmad Hasan was born on August 31, 1887, in Singapore, into an Indian-descended family.
• 😀 His name follows the cultural tradition of placing his family name (Ahmad) before his given name (Hasan).
• 😀 Hasan’s parents were Ahmad Sinavapu Maricar and Musnah, with Musnah originally from Surabaya.
• 😀 From a young age, Hasan worked as a shop assistant and later as a merchant, while also seeking religious knowledge.
• 😀 He was invited to teach at a madrasa due to his religious knowledge and teaching abilities.
• 😀 In 1921, Hasan moved to Surabaya to engage in the textile business while deepening his religious studies.
• 😀 In 1924, Hasan traveled to Bandung to learn weaving, where he became involved with Persatuan Islam (Persis).
• 😀 Persatuan Islam was founded in 1923 in Bandung by Muhammad Nasir and Zamzam, and Hasan played a key role in its growth.
• 😀 Known for his debating skills, Hasan often engaged in public debates, including with figures like President Soekarno, about Islam and nationalism.
• 😀 Ahmad Hasan wrote numerous influential books on Islam, including 'Al-Furqon' (a Quranic tafsir) and texts on Islamic ethics and prayers.
• 😀 Hasan’s legacy continues through Persatuan Islam, which remains active today in promoting Islamic teachings based on the Quran and Hadith.

Q & A

Who was Ahmad Hasan and what was his background?

Ahmad Hasan was born in Singapore on August 31, 1887. He was the son of Ahmad Sinavapu Maricar and Musnah. Despite his Indian heritage, his mother, Musnah, was born and raised in Surabaya. He later moved to Singapore with his wife after their marriage in Surabaya.

What was Ahmad Hasan's early career and how did it shape his later life?

In his youth, Ahmad Hasan worked as a store clerk and engaged in trading while also learning religious teachings from various scholars. His interest in religion led him to teach at a Madrasah, and he also wrote about religious topics for local newspapers.

What was the significance of Ahmad Hasan’s involvement in Persatuan Islam?

Ahmad Hasan played a pivotal role in the development of Persatuan Islam (Islamic Union) by bringing his knowledge and leadership to the organization. He contributed significantly to its activities, making it a prominent movement. He was instrumental in expanding its influence and growing its impact across Indonesia and beyond.

How did Ahmad Hasan view the relationship between Islam and nationalism?

Ahmad Hasan was critical of nationalism, especially the form embraced by Soekarno and other nationalists, whom he saw as separating nationalism from Islam. He believed that nationalism should be grounded in Islamic values and should not be seen as a secular or anti-Islamic ideology.

What were some of Ahmad Hasan's intellectual contributions?

Ahmad Hasan made significant intellectual contributions through his writings. He authored several books, including 'Al-Furqon Tafsir Quran,' and works on various Islamic subjects such as prayer, Friday sermons, Islamic ethics, and the concept of sin in Christianity. He also engaged in debates on religious and national issues.

What was Ahmad Hasan’s stance on the role of religion in politics?

Ahmad Hasan rejected the idea of a purely secular approach to politics and was opposed to the nationalistic basis of political ideologies. He argued that any political movement, especially in an Islamic country, should be based on Islamic principles rather than secularism.

How did Ahmad Hasan’s approach to religious debates affect his reputation?

Ahmad Hasan was known for his fiery debating style, earning the nickname 'the lion of the podium.' Despite his intense demeanor during debates, he maintained cordial relationships with his opponents afterward. His ability to engage in such intellectual debates made him a respected figure in Islamic circles.

What was Ahmad Hasan’s impact on the development of Persatuan Islam after his involvement?

Ahmad Hasan’s involvement in Persatuan Islam was crucial for the organization’s growth. He strengthened its foundation, leading it to spread across Indonesia and internationally, with branches in countries like Egypt, Morocco, and Singapore.

What were some of the key places where Ahmad Hasan lived and worked during his life?

Ahmad Hasan lived in several key locations, including Singapore, Surabaya, Bandung, and Bangil. These places played important roles in his life, especially in terms of his business ventures, religious studies, and his work with Persatuan Islam.

What is the legacy of Ahmad Hasan today?

Ahmad Hasan’s legacy continues through the ongoing work of Persatuan Islam, which remains active in promoting Islamic teachings based on the Quran and Hadith. His writings, intellectual contributions, and the growth of the organization have left a lasting impact on Islamic thought and practice in Indonesia and beyond.