CCN, Cilegon – MAN 1 Kota Cilegon held its regular religious lecture in February with a prominent cleric, KH Sayuti, as the speaker. The event was attended by parents of students in grades X and XI, the Head of the Madrasah, and the School Board, as a step towards fostering closer ties between the school and parents/guardians. (20.02.2024)
The religious lecture served not only as a communication platform but also as an opportunity for parents/guardians to consult with the school regarding the well-being of their children during their time at the institution. This approach aligns with the educational goals of MAN 1 Cilegon, emphasizing not only academic aspects but also placing special emphasis on character development and fostering relationships among the school community members.
In her address, Hj. Maryati, the Head of MAN 1 Cilegon, conveyed the school’s program related to the establishment of a healthy canteen. As part of this program, parking within the madrasah premises will be eliminated, and students will be required to bring their own food and beverages to reduce the use of plastic or styrofoam that can contribute to waste.
KH Sayuti, as the main speaker, delivered a highly relevant presentation on the theme of “Fasting and Jihad.” In his explanation, KH Sayuti clarified the fiqh terminology, stating that jihad signifies fighting against non-believers to uphold Islamic law. However, he also emphasized that jihad can be interpreted as a battle against one’s own desires.
The importance of mental preparation in facing fasting and jihad became the primary focus of the religious lecture. KH Sayuti stressed that the commandments for fasting and jihad were revealed in the same year when Prophet Muhammad faced the Battle of Badr in the second year of Hijri. Both require significant mental preparation, obliging Muslims to empty their souls from the dominance of worldly affairs for the purity of worship and sincerity.
Fasting was explained as a form of worship battling metaphysical evils such as desires and heart diseases, while jihad involved physical combat against external evils like polytheists or visible enemies. The precedence of the command to fast emphasized that the initial step in mental preparation is combatting internal enemies, the unseen adversaries within oneself.
In conclusion, KH Sayuti reminded the audience that Ramadan fasting is not just about abstaining from hunger and thirst but is also a form of jihad in the path of Allah. Fasting teaches Muslims to control themselves, fight against desires, heart diseases, and corrupt mentalities. Prophet Muhammad stated that after returning from the Battle of Badr, Muslims had completed a minor jihad and were now moving towards a greater jihad – the battle against inner desires.
This religious lecture stands as a positive step in strengthening the bond between the school and parents/guardians, while providing a deeper understanding of the significance of mental preparation in undertaking the practices of fasting and jihad. (Ahdi)
