CHAPTER III: Islamic Traditions in Yogyakarta


The city of Yogyakarta is known to be the region that is culturally rich and deep in spiritual emotion, evolving both Islamic values and Javanese tradition coexist in harmony. The religious tradition is not only shown as the religious tradition, but also the cultural ceremonial that is heavily based on the acculturation of both Islam and Javanese culture in Yogyakarta. One of the most famous events known by many people and generations is called Sekaten. Sekaten celebration is held to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, or is familiarly known as Maulid Nabi to the locals. This event has been annually conducted since the era of Mataram Islamic Kingdom until now and has always been anticipated by many people. The series of Sekaten events begins with the performance of Gamelan Sekaten held in the Yogyakarta Palace, known as Kraton. In the past, Sunan Kalijaga, a member of the Wali Songo, used gamelan music to spread the Islamic message among the Javanese people. The gathering is accompanied by the two sets of sacred gamelan, Kyai Nogowilogo and Kyai Gunturmadu, which invite people to participate in religious teachings. The central attraction of the Sekaten event is the grand procession led by the Sultan, including the Gunungan. Gunungan is a mountain shaped structure made of bamboo filled with fruits, vegetables and many other traditional foods as a symbol of gratitude and blessing shared among the community.




Source: tribunnews.com


Another Islamic tradition held in Yogyakarta is called Mubeng Beteng. This ritual is performed annually. The phrase “Mubeng Beteng” which translates to circling around the fortress refers to the activity of walking around the walls of Yogyakarta Palace. The participants of this Mubeng Beteng activity walk in silence and barefoot at night, with no light or sound, emphasizing the spirit of reflection and purification. This tradition represents self-reflection, praying for safety and blessings, when individuals contemplate their past actions. This Mubeng Beteng activity also symbolizes walking the center of life and protection. It also reflects the Javanese philosophy of balance between the material and spiritual realms. Mubeng Beteng represents the harmonious character of Javanese Islam, where mysticism (kejawen) blends with traditional belief, even though it is based on Islamic principles of humility and remorse. Sufi-inspired introspection and traditional Javanese meditation are combined in the silent walk, lack of spoken prayers, and focus on inner awareness. This custom has developed over the ages into a religious and cultural heritage event that draws both visitors and local Muslims who want to fully immerse themselves in Yogyakarta's Islamic mysticism

.In addition to that, the locals living in Yogyakarta also maintain various community-based Islamic traditions that combine the social and moral values for its people. One of the community-based Islamic traditions, called Pengajian, where people gather to study and discuss Islamic teachings. These gatherings are usually led by Ustaz who delivers the materials about how Islamic values our social life and the norms that are applied in our society. Usually it is held in a Mosque or religious institutions and also takes place in home or community halls where many people can gather in one place. These meetings help the locals develop a sense of solidarity and concern for one another while also deepening their spiritual understanding. Other than Pengajian, Nyadran is also a part of Yogyakarta’s Islamic traditions which is commonly practiced throughout the Yogyakarta region. Nyadran is a ritual conducted before the holy month of Ramadan, where families and relatives visit the elder’s grave and recite prayers for those who have passed away. Yogyakarta highlights how Islam is a living, social force that shapes ethical behavior and communal identity rather than just an assembly of ideas through these community-based traditions. These activities encourage compassion, social peace, and spiritual values that strengthen Yogyakarta's cultural environment.

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