Harmony at the Beginning of the Hijrah Year: Knitting Nationality from Mahad Al-Zaytun
(Getting to Know the Traditions at Al Zaytun)
By Ali Aminulloh
Kontributor Jaya News.com
For most people, the commemoration of 1 Muharram may be considered an ordinary event, not as lively as the roar of the New Year celebrations on January 1. The mainstream media is often caught up in the euphoria of the revelry welcoming the new year. However, behind the crowd, there is a special tradition that grows and develops at Mahad Al-Zaytun, Indramayu. Here, 1 Muharram or 1 Syuro is not just a marker of the new Hijri year, but a momentum full of meaning, encapsulating religious and national values in depth.
When the Spirit of Nationality Blossoms at the Beginning of the Year
Since the establishment of Mahad Al-Zaytun in 1999, the commemoration of 1 Muharram has become an anticipated agenda. This momentum is not only full of religious nuances, but also thick with national spirit. This is a time when various national figures gather, share ideas, and formulate strategic steps for the progress of the nation. From year to year, the scope of participants has expanded, embracing figures from various religions, traditional figures, community figures, and even leaders of Islamic boarding schools. Their presence confirms that the spirit of nationalism is a shared property, transcending the barriers of difference.
The peak of this event is often centered at the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Mosque, a name that contains the meaning of mercy for the universe. This mosque is not only a place of worship, but also a “gathering point” and “meeting point” for thinkers from various religions. Pastors, priests, priests, monks, religious figures, Confucian figures, and even Jewish religious activists, all mingle with one goal: to discuss the progress of Indonesia. This intimate and dialogical atmosphere often leaves a deep impression. Not infrequently, several interfaith leaders expressed their experience, “It’s been my whole life since I gave a speech in a mosque.” This statement shows how strong the energy of unity is that radiates from Mahad Al-Zaytun.
Beyond Tolerance Towards Equality
This phenomenon has made the popularity of the commemoration of 1 Muharram in Al-Zaytun no longer limited to Muslims alone, but has spread to all religious communities. This momentum has become a magnet for those who long for harmony, tolerance, and true peace. As expressed by Syaykh Al-Zaytun, the meaning of this togetherness must go beyond mere tolerance. Tolerance, in his view, still implies differences, “You and I are different, but I respect you.” Syaykh Al-Zaytun invites all parties to build equality. “You and I are the same. Both are human beings created by God, both are the Indonesian nation.” This philosophy is a strong foundation for jointly building this country with a spirit of harmony. It would be wonderful if this idea of equality could be absorbed into the soul of the nation.
To strengthen the bonds of togetherness, every meeting always begins by singing the national anthem Indonesia Raya. This song is not just a melody, but a national prayer that binds the heart, followed by other national songs to raise hope and enthusiasm for building the country. From the Al-Zaytun community itself, students, educators and education personnel, parents of students, and stakeholders of Al-Zaytun were also present. Their presence provided real education to students and university students about how national unity must be maintained and preserved. This is in line with the name of the mosque, Rahmatan Lil Alamin, and is also the embodiment of Al-Zaytun’s motto: “Center for Education to Develop a Culture of Tolerance and Peace Towards a Healthy, Intelligent, and Humane Society.”
Epilogue
In the hustle and bustle of the modern world, Mahad Al-Zaytun is present as an oasis, offering a new perspective on how to celebrate the beginning of the year in a more meaningful way. More than just a New Year’s celebration, 1 Muharram at Al-Zaytun is a real manifestation of the ideals of unity, tolerance, and equality that are blossoming in the country. This is proof that in the midst of diversity, we can unite, have dialogues, and work for a better Indonesia, carving harmony in every pulse of the nation.**
Indramayu, June 23,2025
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