The spiritual connection between Gus Dur and Guru Sekumpul lives on in the collective memory of Indonesian Muslims. These two ulama shared values of Islam rooted in morals and compassion, despite different paths in preaching. The annual Haul of Guru Sekumpul, attended by millions, underscores his profound spiritual influence.
In Indonesian Islamic history, the encounter between Abdurrahman Wahid, known as Gus Dur, and KH Muhammad Zaini bin Abdul Ghani, or Guru Sekumpul, is not formally recorded but holds strong influence. Gus Dur, a scholar, intellectual, and former president, respected Guru Sekumpul as a charismatic Banjar ulama who chose cultural and spiritual preaching, away from worldly power.
According to the book Abdurrahman Wahid: Muslim Democrat, Indonesian President by Greg Barton (2002), Gus Dur deeply honored Sufi traditions and charismatic ulama who quietly maintained the community's moral stability. Guru Sekumpul is described in Manaqib Guru Sekumpul by Abdul Aziz Al-Banjari as a simple figure focused on teaching, dhikr, and moral guidance for his followers.
The book Ulama Banjar dan Karisma Spiritual by Alfani Daud emphasizes that Guru Sekumpul's authority grew from exemplary conduct, not positions, aligning with Gus Dur's views on moral leadership. M. Zainal Arifin's article in the Kalimah journal notes that the charisma of ulama like Guru Sekumpul is built through consistent morals.
The annual Haul of Guru Sekumpul at Mushola Ar-Raudhah in Martapura, South Kalimantan, every 5 Rajab Hijriah, draws millions of attendees from across the archipelago and abroad. Ahdiyatul Hidayah's research in JIQTA analyzes it as a theological and social tradition for intercession and collective prayer, expressing love for Guru Sekumpul's teachings through salawat, tahlil, and manaqib. Triogi Wulandari in JAMPARING highlights strengthened social solidarity and spiritual transformation, where attendees experience inner change, piety, and brotherhood.
This Haul is more than a ritual; it is a profound inner experience reinforcing daily religious values, reflecting the exemplary life of Guru Sekumpul as also taught by Gus Dur.
