Tarbiyah Ruhiyah as Islamic Pedagogy: Spiritual Mechanism and Moral Formation in Tarekat Naqsyabandiyah Al-Ahmadi

Abstract

This study examines the role of the Tarekat Naqsyabandiyah Al-Ahmadi (TNA) tarekat in shaping pious behavior in Malang, East Java. Employing a qualitative case study design with a phenomenological orientation, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 6 participants (including the current murshid, spiritual seekers, and pesantren administrators), participant observation, and document analysis. The findings reveal three interconnected mechanisms of pious behavior formation: formal initiation (bai'at) establishing spiritual bonds between the seeker and murshid; quantified spiritual disciplines including targeted zikr and Rajab fasting with ethical guidelines; and material symbols, particularly written talismans of the tahlil formula that serve as spiritual reminders. The spiritual formation process unfolds across three hierarchical phases, orientation and initiation, basic spiritual exercises, and intensive ritual practice, characterized by a gradual shift from external compliance to internalized commitment and demonstrating remarkable adaptability from strict systems to more flexible approaches. The practices yield transformative impacts across three integrated dimensions: spiritually, followers achieve inner tranquility and experience profound states of ecstasy and spiritual unveiling; morally, documented cases show radical transformation of individuals with histories of addiction and criminal behavior; and socially, the community exhibits strong solidarity and professionalized organization. It contributes to theoretical discussions on character education by revealing how ritual discipline, authoritative guidance, and material symbols collectively construct pious subjectivity, while also challenging linear evolutionary models by showing the coexistence of theological, metaphysical, and positive rationalities within a single educational institution.