Literary works play an important role as markers of cultural and spiritual identity in an era of rapid modernization. Sahal Japara’s novel Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan is one of the most important works in this regard.
This novel originates from the traditions and beliefs of Pantura, especially from the village of Kajen, Pati Regency, where the famous cleric Syekh Mutamakkin was born.
Inspired by the teachings of Syekh Mutamakkin, the novel Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan not only tells a story, but also reinterprets Sufi principles in a way that adorns the Kajen Mosque.
“Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan and Sing Pendhitku Ngusap ing Mbun,” the two main teachings of this novel, originate from visual symbols and ancient inscriptions on the mosque’s pulpit.
In the story, Mbah Jogo, the caretaker of the Al Hikam Islamic boarding school, entrusts a young student in Kajen Village with understanding these two teachings.
Paejan’s inner journey is a way to find his true self, which is full of Sufi values typical of Islamic boarding schools.
Sufi Symbolism in the Story of Santri
The teaching of Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan depicts a stork pecking at the moonlight in various places.
This symbolizes spiritual discipline, qanaah, and determination in the effort to achieve a higher level.
Meanwhile, Sing Pendhitku Ngusap ing Mbun is advice for students to remain humble, ask for their teacher’s blessing, and remember the origins of learning.
The story of Paejan is written in a style commonly used by Islamic boarding school teenagers and describes the daily lives of students at school, which are full of meaningful letters, gossip, and internal conflicts that arise during the learning process.
This novel is not only fiction, but also contains local and religious knowledge that is rarely found in mainstream popular literary narratives.
When contacted, cultural observer and academic Sukarjo Waluyo greatly appreciated this novel. He is someone who has extensively researched the identity of coastal communities in Java.
Sukarjo said that Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan is a concrete example of how literature can be a place to reexamine local identity.
According to Sukarjo, on Thursday (6/26/2027), “This novel is a contemporary interpretation of spiritual teachings from the past. This is important because our society tends to inherit cultural values without reinterpreting them.”
According to him, Syekh Mutamakkin’s advice has been revived through literary stories.
The author not only revives old values but also adapts them to the social conditions of today’s youth. This is an effort to preserve tradition while building intergenerational connections,” he said.
In addition, Sukarjo said that this novel greatly helps to raise awareness of the importance of spirituality in the daily lives of santri (Islamic boarding school students).
“Symbols such as the kuntul (egret) and dew are not merely aesthetic ornaments, but a path to a deeper understanding of oneself,” he said.
The novel Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan has been published four times and is widely available in bookstores in the Pati area.
This novel is not only popular among students, but has also become a topic of discussion in madrasas, religious study forums, and the Haul Syekh Mutamakkin commemoration.
In this situation, the writing is more than just a work of literature; it is a record of the values and guidelines of life for the people of Kajen.
Literature is sometimes unspoken, but it enters the reader’s soul secretly.
Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan demonstrates that traditions can endure and remain relevant as long as there are those willing to interpret them with respect and love.
Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, S.S., M.Hum., as the Head of the Indonesian Literature Study Program at FIB Undip, hopes that this activity can inspire other lecturers to actively participate in various activities to increase the popularity of the Indonesian Literature Study Program. (Anin)