The Evolution of the Islamic Education System: A Historical Study of Madrasah and Islamic Boarding Schools in the Archipelago

Abstract

This research aims to describe the evolution of the Islamic education system in the archipelago. The focus of the discussion is the history and development of madrasas and Islamic boarding schools in Indonesia. This research uses a qualitative method with a literature study approach. The data sources used include various literature, such as books, documents, articles, and journals. The results of this research suggest that the Islamic education system and institutions in the archipelago have undergone significant evolution over time. Starting from the simplest forms to modern ones, like today. At the beginning of its development, the process of teaching Islam primarily consisted of recitations and was conducted in homes or mosques. However, as time passes, mosques alone are no longer sufficient to accommodate the increasingly diverse range of teaching activities. Until finally, the terms pesantren, dayah, surau, meunasah, and madrasah emerged. Islamic boarding schools are among the earliest Islamic educational institutions, having existed even before Islam arrived in the archipelago. Islamic boarding schools are non-classical Islamic educational institutions where students are provided. Some components of Islamic boarding schools include Kyais, students, administrators, and dormitories, in an effort to establish schools based on the Islamic religion, namely madrasah. The emergence of these madrasas does not necessarily alter the position of Islamic boarding schools; instead, it complements formal education for students. Madrasahs and Islamic boarding schools both play a crucial role in the development of Islamic education.