Indonesian Journal of Research in Islamic Studies

The Development of Kuttab Institutions within the Cultural Dominance of Traditional Pesantren (Islamic Boarding Schools)

Nolis Nursapaah — 2026-03-22

Background: Islamic education in East Java has long been dominated by traditional pesantren affiliated with Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), which has formed a strong socio-religious and cultural foundation. In recent years, however, the re-emergence of Kuttab as a classical Islamic educational model has introduced a new dynamic within this established landscape. Objective: This study aims to analyse the development of Kuttab institutions in East Java, examining their characteristics, challenges, and adaptation strategies within the dominant pesantren culture. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, document analysis, and review of relevant scholarly literature. Result: The findings indicate that Kuttab has gained positive acceptance among parents seeking Qur’anic and character-based education for early-age children. Nevertheless, the institutions face challenges related to legal recognition, curriculum standardisation, teacher professionalism, infrastructure, and socio-cultural perception. Conclusion: The study concludes that sustainable development of Kuttab requires regulatory reinforcement, contextual curriculum development, professional capacity building, and institutional collaboration. Contribution: This study contributes to the discourse on contemporary Islamic education by providing contextual insights into the interaction between revitalised classical models and entrenched traditional educational systems in Indonesia.

The Ethics of Community: A Value-Based Exegesis of Surah Al-Hujurat

K M A Ahamed Zubair — 2026-03-22

Background: Surah Al-Hujurat is widely recognised as a foundational chapter of Islamic social ethics, yet many interpretations emphasise legal rulings rather than its underlying moral architecture. Objective: This study aims to construct a value-based exegesis that identifies the core ethical principles embedded in the surah as a framework for community formation. Method: Employing thematic and deductive textual analysis, the study systematically examines the verses by organising them into three relational dimensions: human interaction with divine authority, intra-community relations among believers, and engagement with broader humanity. Results: The findings demonstrate that the surah articulates a coherent ethical system grounded in respectful communication, the verification of information, conflict mediation, the protection of dignity, and the safeguarding of privacy. It further establishes piety as the sole criterion of human worth, transcending lineage, ethnicity, and social status. Conclusion: Surah Al-Hujurat offers a comprehensive and enduring moral blueprint for cultivating just and cohesive societies. Contribution: This study advances a structured model of value-based exegesis that enriches contemporary Islamic ethical theory and communal discourse.

The Salafiyyah Movement in South-Western Nigeria: Contributions, Challenges, and Contemporary Significance

Ibrahim Suberu — 2026-03-09

Background: The Salafiyyah movement has emerged as a significant Islamic reform orientation in South-Western Nigeria, influencing religious thought, education, and inter-group relations. Despite its visibility, scholarly analysis of its historical development, internal dynamics, and societal impact remains limited. Objective: This study investigates the emergence, teachings, activities, contributions, and challenges of the Salafiyyah movement in the region. Method: A qualitative case study design was adopted, integrating library research and fieldwork. Data were collected through oral interviews, questionnaires, and review of published and unpublished materials, drawing on both primary and secondary sources. A multidisciplinary analytical framework combining historical, phenomenological, and sociological approaches was employed. Result: The findings indicate that Salafiyyah has contributed substantially to Islamic scholarship, Qur’anic memorization, the establishment of madāris and mosques, educational development, and structured da‘wah activities. However, the movement also faces factional divisions and sustained debates with other Islamic groups over doctrinal and organizational issues. Conclusion: Salafiyyah remains a dynamic and influential reform movement in South-Western Nigeria. Contribution: This research contributes to existing literature by providing a systematic, context-based analysis of Salafiyyah’s contemporary significance within a pluralistic Muslim society