East Java ISNU Strengthens Unity, Prays for PBNU and Visits Bangkalan
The East Java Regional Board of the Association of Nahdlatul Ulama Scholars (PW ISNU) held a gathering and organisational consolidation in Bangkalan Regency, accompanied by dhikr and istighasah. The event served as a momentum to strengthen unity and pray for the continued service of Nahdlatul Ulama at the central level.
“The activity was held at a private residence on Monday (5/10) and was attended by several officials from the Bangkalan PC ISNU and local residents,” said the host, KH dr Hamid Nawawi, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of PW ISNU East Java, in a written statement.
The dhikr and istighasah sessions, which opened the series of activities, were conducted with great solemnity, particularly as participants collectively offered prayers for the NU officials currently serving their mandates at the central level.
KH dr Hamid Nawawi stated that the istighasah was specifically a spiritual effort to pray for the Executive Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), hoping they can carry out their duties effectively. “This istighasah aims to pray for PBNU during this term of service. May they be able to uphold their mandate and develop the organisation with competence or fathonah,” said Hamid.
He added that the values of trustworthiness (amanah) and competence (fathonah) must go hand in hand with truthfulness (siddiq) and a commitment to upholding justice. He emphasised the importance of promoting good and preventing evil (amar makruf nahi mungkar) as part of the struggle within NU.
Following the istighasah, the group proceeded to the Maqbaroh Syaichona Cholil in Bangkalan to perform Isha prayers and communal prayers. This pilgrimage was a vital part of the gathering, as Syaichona Muhammad Cholil of Bangkalan holds a significant position in the scholarly lineage and the history of the founding of Nahdlatul Ulama.
After visiting the maqbaroh, the group continued to the Lajnah Turots Ilmi Syaichona Muhammad Cholil. At this site, ISNU officials observed several written works left by Syaichona Cholil, including reading manuscripts and books that form part of the intellectual heritage of the Bangkalan scholar.
The Lajnah Turots Ilmi is an institution focused on the tracing, preservation, research, publication, and digitalisation of ancient manuscripts and works by past scholars. The existence of this institution is an effort to ensure that the scholarly legacy of the ulama remains accessible to future generations.
During the visit, the Bangkalan PC ISNU specifically presented several books authored by Syaichalam Cholil to the East Java PW ISNU. This handover symbolised the strengthening of scholarly ties and a joint effort to preserve the intellectual heritage of the scholars.
Meanwhile, the Acting Chairman of ISNU East Java, M Afif Hasbullah, stated that the istighasah was not only intended to pray for the PBNU leadership but also as an effort to ensure all ISNU officials are granted ease in performing their duties and community activities.
“We pray that the journey of our colleagues, teachers, and seniors serving in the PBNU is granted smoothness, trustworthiness, and responsibility that can be carried out to the best of their abilities,” said Gus Afif.
He added that prayers were also offered so that all cadres and officials of ISNU are granted ease in their service through the organisation of NU scholars.
For Gus Afif, the series of activities in Bangkalan held significant meaning in strengthening the bonds between officials. He hopes the meeting provides positive energy for ISNU East Java and all regional branches in carrying out their future community agendas.