Who says the struggle to achieve Indonesian independence can only be done through physical means? Kiai Sholeh Darat proved that resistance can be done through another equally great approach, namely by strengthening the spirit and faith of the community through a Sufi approach.



During the Dutch colonial era, the colonial regime had strong control over all sectors in the archipelago, making the people's mindset trapped and enslaved. However, Kiai Sholeh Darat did not stay silent, he raised the spirit of nationalism through religious and cultural approaches. Through his works based on the Pegon script, he successfully transformed Islamic values into local culture that was accepted by the wider community.


In the context of the physical revolution during the colonial era, Kiai Sholeh Darat focused more on preparing young generations of NKRI in the long run to create new orators to break the revolution led by the colonial regime. Later on, nationalist fighters who were prepared became the number one contributor to Indonesia's independence in 1945, including KH. Hasyim Asy'ari and KH. Ahmad Dahlan.


Through his approach and works, Kiai Sholeh Darat managed to cultivate the spirit of nationalism and increase the quality of the community's faith, without having to fight the colonial regime physically. In that era of limitations, Kiai Sholeh Darat achieved great success and made important contributions to Indonesia's independence. The inspiring story of this legendary kiai makes us realize that struggles can be done in many creative and unexpected ways.

Original Source: Strategi Kiai Sholeh Darat Melawan Rezim Kolonial (parrhesia.id)