Santri as Pillars of a Humanist Islamic Civilization
By Dr. Abdul Wadud Nafis, Lc., MEI Santri (Islamic boarding school students) hold a significant position in the history and development of Islamic civilization, particularly in Indonesia. They serve not only as guardians of Islamic values but also as agents of social change who carry the spirit of humanity, tolerance, and peace. The following roles illustrate how santri contribute to building a humanist Islamic civilization: Spreading the Teachings of Islam as Rahmatan lil ‘Alamin Santri are educated to understand Islam as a religion of mercy for all creation. They are taught a tolerant creed, moderate jurisprudence (fiqh), and noble character (akhlaq). In society, santri spread peaceful Islamic teachings, reject violence in the name of religion, and foster harmonious interfaith relations. Through sermons, preaching (dakwah), and social interaction, santri become ambassadors…
