The Teachings of Syekh Siti Jenar and Their Relevance to the Present Day
Author: Abah Roy
A Tauhid Observer
Syekh Siti Jenar is one of the most renowned sufi figures in the Islamic world, especially in Java. Though he is known for his controversial teachings, which were considered heretical by some during his time, Syekh Siti Jenar’s ideas have had a significant impact on the spiritual development in Indonesia. His deep teachings on monotheism (tauhid), inner enlightenment, and unity with God continue to offer a perspective that remains relevant today.
At its core, Syekh Siti Jenar’s teachings convey that God exists within each individual, and true spiritual seeking must be done through direct inner experience, not merely through rituals or religious dogma. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and unity with God in everyday life. For Syekh Siti Jenar, there is no separation between the sacred and the profane; every aspect of life is a manifestation of God that must be honored and respected.
As time has passed, Syekh Siti Jenar’s teachings can be related to several contemporary issues. In a world that is increasingly materialistic, many people feel they have lost the meaning of life and inner balance. In this context, his teachings on deep spiritual seeking and personal experience in relating to God are highly relevant. Many individuals today search for inner peace and tranquility through meditation, self-reflection, and personal spiritual journeys, all of which align with Syekh Siti Jenar’s teachings.
Moreover, his teachings on tauhid—the concept of God’s unity—promote an inclusive mindset that can be applied to interfaith relations. In a world that is becoming more pluralistic, his message reminds us that God is one, and the diversity of religions should be respected and understood as part of the human spiritual journey. This offers valuable insights into the importance of tolerance and mutual respect among religious communities in the modern era.
Equally important, Syekh Siti Jenar’s thoughts on freedom from rigid religious dogma offer an alternative for many who feel trapped in overly formal religious structures. In an increasingly open world filled with choices, many individuals seek a more flexible spiritual path based on personal experience. Syekh Siti Jenar’s teachings, which focus more on self-awareness and inner development, provide space for a more open and free spiritual search.
Of course, Syekh Siti Jenar’s teachings were not without controversy. During his lifetime, many regarded his ideas as contradictory to the more mainstream interpretations of Islam. However, in the modern context, his thoughts offer us a reflection on the importance of spiritual depth and the understanding that every person can find their own path to God.
With all the controversy and freedom in his teachings, Syekh Siti Jenar’s ideas still carry strong relevance in today’s modern world. In a world full of challenges, spiritual searching, and the quest for meaning, his teachings provide a profound alternative for seeking inner peace, unity with God, and tolerance among different religious communities. Therefore, it is not surprising that his teachings continue to be remembered and remain a subject of ongoing discussion today, especially with the presence of Muslims practicing religious moderation.
The question is: does God, according to the teaching of manunggaling Gusti, unite with an evil and cruel person who constantly creates destruction?
This is a profound topic that often sparks debate in various religious traditions, including the teachings of Syekh Siti Jenar. In Sufi teachings, including Syekh Siti Jenar’s view, God is seen as the Almighty present in all things, including within each individual. However, this understanding does not necessarily mean that God approves or justifies all human actions, whether good or evil.
From the perspective of Sufism, human beings, as God’s creations, have the potential to unite with Him through inner enlightenment and spiritual development. However, evil and cruel actions often stem from ignorance, desires, or ego, which prevent a person from realizing their unity with God. In this case, such actions do not reflect God’s nature, which is all-compassionate and all-merciful, but rather result from separation or error in the human soul.
From the moral and theological standpoint in Islam and many other religious traditions, God would never unite with evil or cruel deeds, as He is the Most Just and Most Wise. God grants human beings the freedom to choose their paths, but every action, good or bad, will receive a corresponding recompense according to God’s law.
For example, in Islamic teachings, every human deed is judged by God in the Hereafter. A person who commits evil and cruel acts will face the consequences of their actions, while those who strive to follow the path of goodness and piety will be rewarded accordingly. In this context, God remains Just and does not unite with actions that contradict values of goodness and compassion.
Although God is All-Merciful and All-Forgiving, both Sufi and general religious teachings convey that in order to truly experience unity with God, one must cleanse oneself from negative traits such as hatred, cruelty, and evil, and strive to live with goodness and compassion toward others.
Therefore, while God is present within each person according to Syekh Siti Jenar’s teachings, awareness of God can only be achieved when one works to eliminate negative qualities within oneself and opens their heart to kindness, justice, and goodness. God does not unite with evil or cruel actions, but He remains the guiding light ready to lead humanity back to the righteous path.
May Allah always guide us in our tauhid.
Cirebon, January 25, 2025
