darulmaarif.net – Indramayu, 18 December 2025 | 09.00 WIB
Reporter: Ust. Moh. Ibnu Riziq, S.Pd.
The Wali Songo pilgrimage, which was attended by students from the Darul Ma’arif Islamic Boarding School, was not just a religious journey, but a life experience full of stories, laughter, reflections and unforgettable memories. From solemn prayers at the graves of saints to the dynamics of traveling on the bus, every moment makes a deep impression on the students.
Long cross-city trips actually become a warm space of togetherness. Santri learn to be patient, help each other, and enjoy the process, while following in the footsteps of the saints who previously preached with simplicity and sincerity.
Niki Nuralindahone of the female students admitted that this pilgrimage made her feel a mixture of emotion and happiness.
“I’m tired, yes, but when I arrive at the guardian’s grave, I immediately feel cool. Especially when we pray together, the sleepiness immediately disappears,” he said with a smile.
Similar experiences were felt Aqila Salmawho actually found unique moments during the trip.
“It’s most effective on the bus. Some are studying, some are sleeping, some are singing softly. It feels like a big family having fun,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lisana Aulia admitted that this pilgrimage made him understand more about the meaning of the saints’ struggle.
“When you see the tomb and the story directly, you think, in the past they preached without facilities. We are comfortable now, we can’t be lazy about reciting the Koran,” he said, greeted by nods from his friends.
Not only female students, male students also have interesting stories. Abidzar Al-Ghifari called the Wali Songo pilgrimage a journey full of lessons and surprises.
“This is the first time I pray while fighting hunger and sleepiness. But that’s where the funny thing is, so remember that worship requires struggle,” he said in a relaxed tone.
There is also excitement Ahza Athalla Musyaffaespecially during moments of togetherness between trips.
“The most exciting thing is how compact they are. Some people wake them up to pray, some give them snacks. They don’t feel tired,” he said.
Temporary Amber Huda closes the story with a simple but meaningful effect.
“This pilgrimage makes my heart calm. When I come home my body is sore, but my mind is lighter. I feel like I want to go again if I have one,” he said with a chuckle.
These various experiences are proof that the Wali Songo pilgrimage is not only about visiting the graves of the saints, but also about the process of forming character, maturity and togetherness. Santri learn that the spiritual journey always goes hand in hand with the emotional and social journey.
Through this activity, students not only learn the history of Islamic Archipelago, but also learn about themselves—about patience, togetherness, and the meaning of the journey in seeking knowledge. The Wali Songo pilgrimage is not just remembered as a religious journey, but as a life experience that makes an impression and shapes the students’ personalities.
By presenting activities that combine spirituality, education and togetherness, Darul Ma’arif Islamic Boarding School continues to be committed to producing a generation of students who are not only intellectually intelligent, but also emotionally and spiritually mature. The Wali Songo pilgrimage is proof that Islamic boarding school education is a life process that is experienced, felt and lived together.
