The Da’wah Strategy of The Wali Songo: A Synergy Between Islam and Local Traditions in The Northern Coastal Region

Abstract

The spread of Islam in East Java, especially on the north coast, was driven by the synergy between da'wah, education and respect for local culture. Wali Songo uses adaptive methods, including the establishment of Islamic boarding schools and traditional arts such as wayang kulit, to convey Islamic teachings. Their approach not only focused on spiritual aspects but also involved politics and social values, resulting in a strong and sustainable Muslim community to this day. Wali Songo also understands that da'wah is not only through religious teaching but also involves aspects of politics and power. Wali Songo also focuses attention on Islamic education as one of the main ways of da'wah.  They founded Islamic boarding schools as educational institutions that not only taught Islam, but also other sciences. The Wali Songo da'wah in East Java played a very strategic role in the process of spreading Islam on the island of Java, especially in the 15th to 16th centuries. The Wali Songo da'wah in East Java is carried out with an approach that respects local traditions while conveying Islamic teachings in a peaceful and wise manner. Through Islamic boarding schools and an intelligent cultural approach, Wali Songo not only spread Islam, but also introduced moral and social values ??that shape a better society. One of the distinctive characteristics of Wali Songo's preaching on the north coast of Java is the use of art as a means of conveying the preaching message.