Spread of Islam in Southeast Asia

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOST COMPASSIONATE,MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.MOST MERCIFUL.
All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2016))
LESSON # 9a – (part 1)LESSON # 9a – (part 1)
BRIEF HISTORY OF THEBRIEF HISTORY OF THE
SPREAD OF ISLAM IN S.E. ASIASPREAD OF ISLAM IN S.E. ASIA
Using text & curriculum he has developed especially forUsing text & curriculum he has developed especially for
Muslim converts and young Adult English-speaking Muslims.Muslim converts and young Adult English-speaking Muslims.
““To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”
UPDATED – 23UPDATED – 23 March 2016March 2016
BATCH # 5 INTAKE
– [ January - May 2016 ] Intermediate Level course in English for AdultsIntermediate Level course in English for Adults
conducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailconducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
And say: O Lord! Increase for me my knowledgeAnd say: O Lord! Increase for me my knowledge

““Or do you think that you will enter Paradise whileOr do you think that you will enter Paradise while
such [trial] has not yet come to you as came tosuch [trial] has not yet come to you as came to
those who passed on before you? They werethose who passed on before you? They were
touched by poverty and hardship and were shakentouched by poverty and hardship and were shaken
until [even their] messenger and those whountil [even their] messenger and those who
believed with him said, "When is the help ofbelieved with him said, "When is the help of
Allah?" Unquestionably, the help of Allah is near.”Allah?" Unquestionably, the help of Allah is near.”
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 214Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 214))

“It is He (Allah) who sent His Messenger (Muhammad) with guidance
and the religion of truth (ISLAM)to manifest it over all religion. And
sufficient is Allah as Witness.”
(Qur’an: Fathu: 48: 28)

“Indeed, in this [Qur'an] is notification for a worshipping
people. And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a
mercy to the worlds. Say, "It is only revealed to me that your god
is but one God; so will you be Muslims [in submission to Him]?"
(Qur’an: Anbiya’: 21: 106-108)

’But if they turn away, then say, "I have announced
to [all of] you equally. And I know not whether near
or far is that which you are promised. Indeed, He
(Allah) knows what is declared of speech, and He
knows what you conceal. And I know not; perhaps it is
a trial for you and enjoyment for a time."
(Qur’an: Anbiya: 21: 109-111)

““There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion. The
right course has become clear from the wrong. So whoever
disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah has grasped the most
trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allah is Hearing and
Knowing.""
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 256Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 256))All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2016))

““Who is better in speech than one who calls (men) to Allah,Who is better in speech than one who calls (men) to Allah,
works righteousness, and says "I am of those who bow in Islam"works righteousness, and says "I am of those who bow in Islam"
((Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 33Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 33))

““Nor should the Believers all go forth together: if a contingentNor should the Believers all go forth together: if a contingent
from every expedition remained behind, they could devotefrom every expedition remained behind, they could devote
themselves to studies in religion (themselves to studies in religion (LIYA-TAFAQQAHU -FID-DEENLIYA-TAFAQQAHU -FID-DEEN))
and admonish the people when they return to them― that thusand admonish the people when they return to them― that thus
they (may learn) to guard themselves (against evil).”they (may learn) to guard themselves (against evil).”
((Qur’an: Taubah: 9:122Qur’an: Taubah: 9:122))

““Verily those who truly fear Allah from among His Servants,Verily those who truly fear Allah from among His Servants,
those who have knowledge (those who have knowledge (AL-’ULAMAAL-’ULAMA): for Allah is): for Allah is
Exalted in Might, Oft-Forgiving.Exalted in Might, Oft-Forgiving.““
((Qur’an: Fatir: 35: 28Qur’an: Fatir: 35: 28))

““ Allah will raise up, to (suitable) ranks (and degrees), those ofAllah will raise up, to (suitable) ranks (and degrees), those of
you who believe and who have been granted Knowledgeyou who believe and who have been granted Knowledge
((UU-TUL-’ILMAUU-TUL-’ILMA): and Allah is well-acquainted with all ye): and Allah is well-acquainted with all ye
do.”do.”
((Qur’an: Mujadilah: 58: 11Qur’an: Mujadilah: 58: 11))

““Those who listen to the Word, and follow the best (meaning) in it:Those who listen to the Word, and follow the best (meaning) in it:
those are the ones whom Allah has guided, and those are the onesthose are the ones whom Allah has guided, and those are the ones
endued with understanding.”endued with understanding.”
((Qur’an: Az-Zumar:39:18Qur’an: Az-Zumar:39:18))

He (Allah) grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he toHe (Allah) grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he to
whom wisdom is granted receives indeed a benefitwhom wisdom is granted receives indeed a benefit
overflowing; but none will grasp the message but men ofoverflowing; but none will grasp the message but men of
understandingunderstanding.“.“
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 269Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 269))

““And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger -And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger -
those will be with the ones upon whom Allah hasthose will be with the ones upon whom Allah has
bestowed favour of the prophets, the steadfastbestowed favour of the prophets, the steadfast
affirmers of truth, the martyrs and the righteous.affirmers of truth, the martyrs and the righteous.
And excellent are those as companions. That is theAnd excellent are those as companions. That is the
bounty from Allah, and sufficient is Allah asbounty from Allah, and sufficient is Allah as
Knower.”Knower.”
((Qur’an: an-Nisa’: 4: 69-70Qur’an: an-Nisa’: 4: 69-70))

“Indeed, this religion is easy (IN-NAD-DEENA-YUSRUN), and no one
will ever overburden himself in religion, except that it will overcome
him. So seek what is appropriate, and come as close as you can, and
receive the glad tidings (that you will be rewarded), and take it easy.“
(Hadith reported by Bukhary)

“Whomsoever that Allah wishes for him goodness, He will
make him a FAQIH (learned) in matters of the
religion(Deen); and for everything there is a pillar, and the
pillar of this religion is AL-FIQH – (the profound
understanding of the Deen); a learned scholar (of the Deen)
is more difficult upon satan than a thousand worshippers.”
((Reported by Bukhary and MuslimReported by Bukhary and Muslim))

““Whosoever sets out upon the path in which to seek knowledgeWhosoever sets out upon the path in which to seek knowledge
((‘ILMA‘ILMA), Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.”), Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.”
((Reported by Abu Daud & TirmidziReported by Abu Daud & Tirmidzi))

““The best ones amongst you is the person who makes youThe best ones amongst you is the person who makes you
remember Allah when you look upon him; and whenever heremember Allah when you look upon him; and whenever he
speaks it increases you your knowledge (of the Deen), and withspeaks it increases you your knowledge (of the Deen), and with
his deeds it inspires (motivates) you to strive for yourhis deeds it inspires (motivates) you to strive for your
Hereafter.”Hereafter.”
((Hadith reported by Hakim from Ibnu ‘Umar r.aHadith reported by Hakim from Ibnu ‘Umar r.a.).)

23
““He is not from my Ummah (community),He is not from my Ummah (community),
One who does not respect our elders, orOne who does not respect our elders, or
One who is not merciful (kind) to our young, andOne who is not merciful (kind) to our young, and
One who do not know ourOne who do not know our ‘Ulama’ -‘Ulama’ - Islamic scholarsIslamic scholars
(and respect their rights ) .”(and respect their rights ) .”
((Hadith of our Prophet s.a.w. Reported by TabranyHadith of our Prophet s.a.w. Reported by Tabrany))

24
“A person is upon the religion (way of life)
of the ones (friends) he is close to,
therefore look to whom you (love to be) close to.”
(Hadith reported by Tirmidzi)

25
””Verily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of theVerily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of the DEENDEEN
(Religion), so look thoroughly into(Religion), so look thoroughly into
the person from whom you acquirethe person from whom you acquire
(the knowledge of) your(the knowledge of) your DEENDEEN (Religion).”(Religion).”
Imam Muhammad ibnu Sirrin (rhm.a) advices and warns us Muslims:Imam Muhammad ibnu Sirrin (rhm.a) advices and warns us Muslims:

26
““Whosoever has an increase in knowledge without any increaseWhosoever has an increase in knowledge without any increase
in his detachment (in his detachment (ZUHDZUHD) for the world, would not have any) for the world, would not have any
increase with Allah except in his distancing himself further”increase with Allah except in his distancing himself further”
((Hadith reported by Dailami from ‘Ali ibn Abi Tolib r.aHadith reported by Dailami from ‘Ali ibn Abi Tolib r.a.).)

27
““He is not an ascetic (He is not an ascetic (ZAHIDZAHID) he who is detached (denounce) the) he who is detached (denounce) the
dirham and dinar (i.e. money), but verily a true ascetic (dirham and dinar (i.e. money), but verily a true ascetic (ZAHIDZAHID))
is one who detaches himself from all otheris one who detaches himself from all other
except the Irresistable (except the Irresistable (Allah jallaajalaa-luhAllah jallaajalaa-luh)”)”
((Explanation of “Explanation of “ZUHDZUHD” by Ibn ‘Arabiy” by Ibn ‘Arabiy))

28
““He who does not exert abstinence (He who does not exert abstinence (WARA’)WARA’) while learning, Godwhile learning, God
(Allah) the Almighty chastise [him] in one of three ways:(Allah) the Almighty chastise [him] in one of three ways:
[1] either deprives him of life in his youth, or[1] either deprives him of life in his youth, or
[2] exiles him into [far-off] regions, or[2] exiles him into [far-off] regions, or
[3] punishes him [by forcing him to enter] the service of the Sultan.”[3] punishes him [by forcing him to enter] the service of the Sultan.”
A SCHOLARS’ ADVICE FROM KITAB “TA’LIM MUTA’LLIM”A SCHOLARS’ ADVICE FROM KITAB “TA’LIM MUTA’LLIM”

"Verily Allah does not remove knowledge from the (hearts of the)Verily Allah does not remove knowledge from the (hearts of the)
people, rather he takes away knowledge by taking away itspeople, rather he takes away knowledge by taking away its
people (the true scholars –people (the true scholars – ‘ULAMA‘ULAMA), until there are no more), until there are no more
scholars, the people then take leaders that are ignorant, andscholars, the people then take leaders that are ignorant, and
when they are asked, and givewhen they are asked, and give fatwasfatwas – religious rulings, (they– religious rulings, (they
give) without knowledge, so they misguide and are misguided.“give) without knowledge, so they misguide and are misguided.“
((Hadith reported by Ashaab as-Sunnan from Ibnu ‘Umar r.aHadith reported by Ashaab as-Sunnan from Ibnu ‘Umar r.a.).)

““(Honour) My successors ((Honour) My successors (Khulafa’Khulafa’), may Allah s.w.t. be), may Allah s.w.t. be
Merciful towards them!.”Merciful towards them!.”
He was asked:He was asked:
““Who are your successors (Who are your successors (Khulafa’Khulafa’) O Messenger of Allah?”) O Messenger of Allah?”
And he said:And he said:
““They are those who revive myThey are those who revive my SunnahSunnah (Way or traditions)(Way or traditions)
and teaches them to the servants of Allah.”and teaches them to the servants of Allah.”
((Hadith of the Prophet s.a.wHadith of the Prophet s.a.w.).)

We the prophets are commanded to place peopleWe the prophets are commanded to place people
according to their station and to speak unto themaccording to their station and to speak unto them
in accordance with their intellectual capacity.in accordance with their intellectual capacity.
((Hadith reported by Abu Dawud from A’isyah r.aHadith reported by Abu Dawud from A’isyah r.a.).)

“A learned FAQIH (scholar & teacher) is truly FAQIH, one who does not cause others to
feel despair from receiving the mercy of Allah (i.e. overly strict and too ‘harsh’); and
neither does he (give the impression by his behaviour, a guarantees as if ) anyone can
avert or withhold the wrath (punishment) of Allah, nor allows opportunity (by giving
dispensation) for anyone to disobey Allah (i.e. being inappropriately lax and too ‘nice’).
(Hilyatul-Auliya: 1-73 – as quoted by M.Natsir in Fiqhud-Da’wah)
WISE SAYING OF IMAM ‘ALI BIN ABI TOLIB R.A.WISE SAYING OF IMAM ‘ALI BIN ABI TOLIB R.A.

““O Prophet! Truly We have sent thee as a Witness (O Prophet! Truly We have sent thee as a Witness (SHAAHIDAHSHAAHIDAH), a), a
Bearer of Glad Tidings (Bearer of Glad Tidings (MUBAS-SHIRAHMUBAS-SHIRAH), and a Warner (), and a Warner (NADZEERAHNADZEERAH)―)―
And as one who invites to Allah's (Grace) by His leave (And as one who invites to Allah's (Grace) by His leave (DAA-’IYANDAA-’IYAN
ILALLAAHILALLAAH) , and as a Lamp spreading Light () , and as a Lamp spreading Light (SIRAAJAN MUNEERAHSIRAAJAN MUNEERAH).”).”
((Qur’an: Ahzab : 33: 45-46Qur’an: Ahzab : 33: 45-46))

““Invite (all) to the way of thy Lord with wisdom (Invite (all) to the way of thy Lord with wisdom (BIL-BIL-HHIKMAHIKMAH) and beautiful) and beautiful
preaching (preaching (MAU-’IZAH-MAU-’IZAH-HHASANAHASANAH); and argue with them in ways that are); and argue with them in ways that are
best and most gracious (best and most gracious (JAADIL-HUM-BIL-LATI -HIYA AJAADIL-HUM-BIL-LATI -HIYA AHHSANSAN): for thy Lord): for thy Lord
knows, best who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance. “knows, best who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance. “
((Qur’an: an-Nahlu: 16: 125Qur’an: an-Nahlu: 16: 125))

38
““Da-’inDa-’in” [sing.] (caller; one who invites) –” [sing.] (caller; one who invites) – title indicating atitle indicating a
high station in the hierarchy of ranks amongsthigh station in the hierarchy of ranks amongst ‘ulama’‘ulama’ of Islamof Islam..
Title accorded only to those with certain criteria; more asTitle accorded only to those with certain criteria; more as
ambassador or emissary of Islam - to call others toambassador or emissary of Islam - to call others to al-Islamal-Islam..
TThis title or appellation of ahis title or appellation of a ““Du-’atDu-’at” [pl.]” [pl.] - should not be- should not be
carelessly used just because a Muslim is doing or helping in work ofcarelessly used just because a Muslim is doing or helping in work of
Da’wah.Da’wah.
As Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w. is the exemplary :As Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w. is the exemplary :
““and as one who invites to Allah's (Grace) by His leaveand as one who invites to Allah's (Grace) by His leave”” , - the task, - the task
of such a person is indeed wide-ranging .of such a person is indeed wide-ranging .

39
AD-DA-‘I WAD-DA’WAHAD-DA-‘I WAD-DA’WAH
(THE CALLER AND THE CALL)(THE CALLER AND THE CALL)
MUBALLIGHMUBALLIGH
MUDAR-RIS WA MU-‘AL-LIMMUDAR-RIS WA MU-‘AL-LIM
MURAB-BI’ - MU-AD-DIB - MURSHIDMURAB-BI’ - MU-AD-DIB - MURSHID
MUS-LIMUS-LIHH AD-DEEN WAL-UMMAHAD-DEEN WAL-UMMAH
MUJAD-DIDMUJAD-DID
MUJAHID - DA’WAHMUJAHID - DA’WAH
BIL-LISAAN BIL-QALAAM BIL-HAAL BIS-SAYF
QUDWAH HASANAH MUNAZARAH

““It is He who has sent among the unlettered a Messenger fromIt is He who has sent among the unlettered a Messenger from
themselves (themselves (YAT-LU ‘ALAY-HIM AA-YAA-TIHIYAT-LU ‘ALAY-HIM AA-YAA-TIHI) reciting to them) reciting to them
His verses and (His verses and (YU-ZAK-KEE-HIMYU-ZAK-KEE-HIM) purifying them (and make) purifying them (and make
them grow) and (them grow) and (YU-’AL-LI-MU-HUMYU-’AL-LI-MU-HUM) teaching them the Book) teaching them the Book
((AL-KITAABAL-KITAAB) and wisdom () and wisdom (AL-AL-HHIKMAHIKMAH)”)”
((Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 2Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 2))

“ and [to cause this message to spread] from them unto other
people as soon as they come into contact with them: for He
alone is almighty, truly wise! Such is Allah's bounty: He grants it
to anyone who is willing [to receive it]: for Allah is limitless in His
great bounty.“
(Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 3-4)

““ ((UUD-’UUUUD-’UU) Invite (or call) to the way of your Lord with) Invite (or call) to the way of your Lord with
((AL-AL-HHIKMAHIKMAH) wisdom and good instruction, and argue) wisdom and good instruction, and argue
with them in a way that is best.”with them in a way that is best.”
((Qur’an: An-Nahlu: 16: 125Qur’an: An-Nahlu: 16: 125))

““And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle wayAnd thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way
((UMMATAN WASOTANUMMATAN WASOTAN) [i.e. justly balanced], so that [with your lives]) [i.e. justly balanced], so that [with your lives]
you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind (you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind (SHUHADAA-SHUHADAA-
A - ‘ALAN-NAASA - ‘ALAN-NAAS) , and the Messenger as a witness over you.“) , and the Messenger as a witness over you.“
((Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143))

Trading between the Middle-east and the Orient (China) had pre-existedTrading between the Middle-east and the Orient (China) had pre-existed
before the coming of Prophet Muhammadbefore the coming of Prophet Muhammad ..
Historically, Islam had reached China and South-east Asia since theHistorically, Islam had reached China and South-east Asia since the
beginning of Hijriah (Prphet’s migration) period.beginning of Hijriah (Prphet’s migration) period.
Arabs and Persian had long been world renown mariners and voyagers,Arabs and Persian had long been world renown mariners and voyagers,
plying the ancient trade routes – both overland and sea – long before Islamplying the ancient trade routes – both overland and sea – long before Islam
came to Arabia.came to Arabia.
SPREAD OF ISLAM TO THE ORIENT – THE SILK ROUTE AND SPICE TRADE

During the Caliphate of ‘Uthman ibn Affan r.a., the Muslim begunDuring the Caliphate of ‘Uthman ibn Affan r.a., the Muslim begun
strengthening the naval armada especially in the Meditaranean sea, mainlystrengthening the naval armada especially in the Meditaranean sea, mainly
for Da’wah.for Da’wah.
Whereas the sea-route to the East had already been dominated by Arabs,Whereas the sea-route to the East had already been dominated by Arabs,
Persians and Indians. Their conversion to Islam facilitated its spread to thePersians and Indians. Their conversion to Islam facilitated its spread to the
East for they became ‘ambassadors’ for Islam.East for they became ‘ambassadors’ for Islam.
Emissaries and delegation had already been sent to the Emperor of China,Emissaries and delegation had already been sent to the Emperor of China,
and this continued on, in the ‘Ummayyad and Abassid period – bothand this continued on, in the ‘Ummayyad and Abassid period – both
overland via the “overland via the “Silk RoadSilk Road” or the sea-route of the “” or the sea-route of the “Spice tradeSpice trade”.”.
SPREAD OF ISLAM TO THE ORIENT – THE SILK ROUTE AND SPICE TRADE

STRATEGIC LOCATION OF THE NUSANTARA

Voyages from the Middle-east to China had long begun predating theVoyages from the Middle-east to China had long begun predating the
period of Prophet Muhammadperiod of Prophet Muhammad , even chronicled by the Arab and, even chronicled by the Arab and
Persian travellers who were already familiar with the route to China.Persian travellers who were already familiar with the route to China.
Apart from the overland SILK ROAD, the sea voyage between Arabia-Apart from the overland SILK ROAD, the sea voyage between Arabia-
Persia to China had begun since the Phoenicians period.Persia to China had begun since the Phoenicians period.
According toAccording to Chiu T’ang ShuChiu T’ang Shu (record) Islam’s contact with China started(record) Islam’s contact with China started
as early as 31H / 651CE when an emissary fromas early as 31H / 651CE when an emissary from Ta ShihTa Shih (Arabia) visited(Arabia) visited
the T’ang Emperor.the T’ang Emperor.
Since the time of Caliph ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan r.a., many more emmisariesSince the time of Caliph ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan r.a., many more emmisaries
were sent and many Muslims settlers were accepted into China.were sent and many Muslims settlers were accepted into China.

Muslim communities began to be established especially in the coastalMuslim communities began to be established especially in the coastal
region of China, as well as along the trade route – in theregion of China, as well as along the trade route – in the NUSANTARANUSANTARA..
NUSANTARANUSANTARA being a stop over on the sea-route to China, one of thebeing a stop over on the sea-route to China, one of the
earliest Arab Muslim settlement known was atearliest Arab Muslim settlement known was at BARUSBARUS on northern tipon northern tip
ofof SAMUDRASAMUDRA (on Sumatra). Evidence indicated that Muslims were(on Sumatra). Evidence indicated that Muslims were
already present there; 34 years after the Hijrah of the Prophetalready present there; 34 years after the Hijrah of the Prophet
Later with the fall of Baghdad to the Mongols, Muslim influx (diaspora)Later with the fall of Baghdad to the Mongols, Muslim influx (diaspora)
to this region was greatly enhanced. And conversion and intermarriagesto this region was greatly enhanced. And conversion and intermarriages
with the indigenous occured, and with Islam as catalyst to assimilate allwith the indigenous occured, and with Islam as catalyst to assimilate all
into a larger community as Muslims, a new hegemony was forged.into a larger community as Muslims, a new hegemony was forged.

The approach ofThe approach of DA’WAHDA’WAH was of two-pronged : towards the influentialwas of two-pronged : towards the influential
class (class (AL-MALA-AAL-MALA-A); and to the masses (); and to the masses (AL-JUMHURAL-JUMHUR).).
These Muslims’ embodiment of wisdom; tolerance and patience;These Muslims’ embodiment of wisdom; tolerance and patience;
exuding examplary way of life and nobility of their character;exuding examplary way of life and nobility of their character;
spreading knowledge, Justice and Compassion; projecting the messagespreading knowledge, Justice and Compassion; projecting the message
of Mercy for all the world; improving lives of people ; binding peopleof Mercy for all the world; improving lives of people ; binding people
into a genuine brotherhood upon a common faith; forging a communityinto a genuine brotherhood upon a common faith; forging a community
through what I termed “through what I termed “civilizational osmosiscivilizational osmosis”, etc. that was how the”, etc. that was how the
spread of Islam was done. Much could still be learnt by the presentspread of Islam was done. Much could still be learnt by the present
Muslims from their history and their approach.Muslims from their history and their approach.

The approach ofThe approach of DA’WAHDA’WAH was of two-pronged : towards the influentialwas of two-pronged : towards the influential
class (class (AL-MALA-AAL-MALA-A); and to the masses (); and to the masses (AL-JUMHURAL-JUMHUR).).
These Muslims’ embodiment of wisdom; tolerance and patience;These Muslims’ embodiment of wisdom; tolerance and patience;
exuding examplary way of life and nobility of their character;exuding examplary way of life and nobility of their character;
spreading knowledge, Justice and Compassion; projecting the messagespreading knowledge, Justice and Compassion; projecting the message
of Mercy for all the world; improving lives of people ; binding peopleof Mercy for all the world; improving lives of people ; binding people
into a genuine brotherhood upon a common faith; forging a communityinto a genuine brotherhood upon a common faith; forging a community
through what I termed “through what I termed “civilizational osmosiscivilizational osmosis”, etc. that was how the”, etc. that was how the
spread of Islam was done. Much could still be learnt by the presentspread of Islam was done. Much could still be learnt by the present
Muslims from their history and their approach.Muslims from their history and their approach.
“CIVILIZATIONAL OSMOSIS”
Hope to elaborate on this later
In other separate discourse

ACHEHACHEH

MARCO POLO (MARCO POLO (1254-1327CE) – (651 – 727H)
Recorded in his travel that there were 6 Islamic kingdoms in existence
in PULAU ANDALAS (old name of island of Sumatra):
[1] PERLAK;
[2] SAMUDRA;
[3] LAMURI;
[4] PASAI ;
[5] FANSUR; and
[6] BARUS ALL THESE IN REGION OF ACHEH

IBN BATTUTTAIBN BATTUTTA (1304-1377CE) – (703- 778H)(1304-1377CE) – (703- 778H)
Recorded in his travel that:Recorded in his travel that:
 PASAIPASAI was ruled bywas ruled by Sultan al-Malikus-SolihSultan al-Malikus-Solih (died 1297CE/596H )(died 1297CE/596H )
 He was succeeded by his sonHe was succeeded by his son Sultan al-Malikuz-ZahirSultan al-Malikuz-Zahir..
 TThe people converted and all followed inhe people converted and all followed in FIQHFIQH the Madzhab ofthe Madzhab of
Imam Muhammad Idris ash-Shafi’-ieImam Muhammad Idris ash-Shafi’-ie
ALL THESE IN REGION OF ACHEH

The “SEJARAH MELAYU” (The Malay Annals)The “SEJARAH MELAYU” (The Malay Annals)
Recorded that:Recorded that:
 Islam was brought toIslam was brought to PASAIPASAI by aby a MUBALLIGHMUBALLIGH known as Faqirknown as Faqir
Muhammad from Gujerat (South India).Muhammad from Gujerat (South India).
 The first king to embrace IslamThe first king to embrace Islam MERAH SILUMERAH SILU who then took the Muslimwho then took the Muslim
name-titlename-title SULTAN MALIKUS-SOLIHSULTAN MALIKUS-SOLIH..

The book “IZHAR AL-HAQQ” and “TADZKIRAH TABAQATThe book “IZHAR AL-HAQQ” and “TADZKIRAH TABAQAT
JAM-’U- SULTAN AS-SALATIN”JAM-’U- SULTAN AS-SALATIN” (789CE / 172H)
Recorded that:
 Islam came to the NUSANTARA at PERLAK in the year 173H/789CE, via a
ship headed by a NAKHODA KHALIFAH.
 Muslim scholars and missionary peacefully propagated Islam there and
managed to Islamise the country to the point that it proclaimed itself as
Islamic kingdom in 225H / 893CE.

The book “IZHAR AL-HAQQ” and “TADZKIRAH TABAQATThe book “IZHAR AL-HAQQ” and “TADZKIRAH TABAQAT
JAM-’U- SULTAN AS-SALATIN”JAM-’U- SULTAN AS-SALATIN” (789CE / 172H)
Recorded that:
 It was then led by a MAULANA SAYYID ABDUL AZIZ SHAH. He was the
son of SAYYID ‘ALI IBN MUHAMMAD IBN JA’FAR AS-SODIQ (a Qurayshi
Ahlil-Bayt from the HIJAZ) who married, the princess MAKHDUM
TANSHURI, sister of the king of Perlak (MEURAH PERLAK) MAKHDUM
SHAHIR NUWI

PATTANIPATTANI

The strategic region aroundThe strategic region around PATTANIPATTANI, as a safe-transit for traders grew in, as a safe-transit for traders grew in
importance and Muslim scholars and preachers were actively engaged toimportance and Muslim scholars and preachers were actively engaged to
spread Islam there. It belonged to one of the oldest Malay kingdom ofspread Islam there. It belonged to one of the oldest Malay kingdom of
LANGKASUKALANGKASUKA (Hindu), later was ruled over by the(Hindu), later was ruled over by the SAILENDRASAILENDRA (Buddhist).(Buddhist).
The connection withThe connection with YEMENYEMEN viavia INDIAINDIA must be noted, as many scholars ofmust be noted, as many scholars of
the Prophet’s s.a.w. lineage (the Prophet’s s.a.w. lineage (SAADAH BA-’ALAWISAADAH BA-’ALAWI) , had already begun) , had already begun
makingmaking DA’WAHDA’WAH, especially the descendants of, especially the descendants of SAYYID JAMALUDDEEN AL-SAYYID JAMALUDDEEN AL-
HUSSEINIYHUSSEINIY , who settled here, intermarried with the indigenous, educated, who settled here, intermarried with the indigenous, educated
and groomed futureand groomed future DU’ATDU’AT, as, as MUJAHID DA’WAHMUJAHID DA’WAH especially to lead theespecially to lead the
community; if not as Islamic scholars (community; if not as Islamic scholars (‘ULAMA’‘ULAMA’), then through businesses), then through businesses
by being philantrophist (by being philantrophist (AGH-NIYA’AGH-NIYA’).).
IN PATTANI (SOUTHERN THAILAND)

Their methodology ofTheir methodology of DA’WAHDA’WAH was in keeping with thewas in keeping with the SUNNAHSUNNAH of theirof their
pious predecessors (pious predecessors (SALAFUS-SOLEHSALAFUS-SOLEH); through spreading Justice, Mercy,); through spreading Justice, Mercy,
Compassion and teaching good moral by personal examples (Compassion and teaching good moral by personal examples (AKHKLAQUL-AKHKLAQUL-
KAREEMAHKAREEMAH) , not just in themselves but with their family amongst the) , not just in themselves but with their family amongst the
natives; addressing needs of people and uplifting their lives; buildingnatives; addressing needs of people and uplifting their lives; building
schools and orphanages; caring for the poor and the sick; etc.schools and orphanages; caring for the poor and the sick; etc.
Their success was because they had striven sincerely and with utmostTheir success was because they had striven sincerely and with utmost
dedication with all that they could offer to establish the best of communitydedication with all that they could offer to establish the best of community
((KHAYRA UMMAHKHAYRA UMMAH), exuding faith, deeds with excellence (), exuding faith, deeds with excellence (AD-DEEN AL-AD-DEEN AL-
ISLAMISLAM), so that “), so that “the right way becomes clear from that which is in errorthe right way becomes clear from that which is in error” .” .

In (circa) 1150CE, theIn (circa) 1150CE, the DA’WAHDA’WAH movement ofmovement of SHEIKH ‘ABDULLAH AL-SHEIKH ‘ABDULLAH AL-
YAMANIYAMANI extensively spread viaextensively spread via INDIAINDIA andand ACHEHACHEH to bring Islam to theto bring Islam to the
peninsula.peninsula.
It was from here -It was from here - KEDAHKEDAH andand PATTANIPATTANI - that Islam then spread to the- that Islam then spread to the
south and east coast of the Malay peninsula viz.south and east coast of the Malay peninsula viz. KELANTANKELANTAN,, TRENGGANUTRENGGANU,,
PAHANGPAHANG since 1150CE.since 1150CE.
Interestingly, in PATANI itself, Islam was accepted by most of its generalInterestingly, in PATANI itself, Islam was accepted by most of its general
citizens, while its kingcitizens, while its king PayatunakapaPayatunakapa remained a Mahayana-Buddhist untilremained a Mahayana-Buddhist until
much later. When the king embraced Islam, asmuch later. When the king embraced Islam, as Sultan Ismail ShahSultan Ismail Shah andand
PATTANIPATTANI was then declared as an Islamic Sultanate – “was then declared as an Islamic Sultanate – “Pattani DarrussalamPattani Darrussalam””
(circa 1450CE).(circa 1450CE). IN PATTANI (SOUTHERN THAILAND)

The earliest leading Islamic scholar wasThe earliest leading Islamic scholar was SHEIKH SHAFI’UDDIN AL-SHEIKH SHAFI’UDDIN AL-
ABBASABBAS, the ancestor to many Islamic scholars - , especially the most, the ancestor to many Islamic scholars - , especially the most
important propagator, scholar and Mujahid, whose work to Islamiseimportant propagator, scholar and Mujahid, whose work to Islamise
this region was immense -this region was immense - SHEIKH DAWUD BIN ‘ABDULLAH AL- FATANISHEIKH DAWUD BIN ‘ABDULLAH AL- FATANI..
Since then onSince then on PATTANIPATTANI produced world renowned Islamic scholars, notproduced world renowned Islamic scholars, not
only throughout the archipelago (only throughout the archipelago (JOHORJOHOR,, RIAURIAU,the,the NATUNASNATUNAS, north, north
BORNEOBORNEO, etc.,but produced leading, etc.,but produced leading IMAMIMAM and scholars of the Muslimsand scholars of the Muslims
ofof SHAFI-’IE MADZHABSHAFI-’IE MADZHAB in the centre of Islam,in the centre of Islam, MAKKAHMAKKAH. It then. It then
became a centre for the training ofbecame a centre for the training of JAWIJAWI (those from Nusantara)(those from Nusantara)
students of Islam. The pilgrimage (students of Islam. The pilgrimage (HAJJHAJJ) facilitated much success in this.) facilitated much success in this.

The literary contributions of the earlyThe literary contributions of the early ‘ULAMA‘ULAMA from thefrom the NUSANTARANUSANTARA--
with their adoption ofwith their adoption of JAWIJAWI (Arabiced) script and the use of the Riau(Arabiced) script and the use of the Riau
Malay in official correspondences, in the knowledge culture beingMalay in official correspondences, in the knowledge culture being
spread where in infused into this evolving Malay language, many Arabicspread where in infused into this evolving Malay language, many Arabic
words and terminologies, etc. Thus enriching it.words and terminologies, etc. Thus enriching it.
The effect of this language, and heightened withThe effect of this language, and heightened with DA’WAHDA’WAH was sowas so
tremendously successful, that it forged a hegemony of sort amongsttremendously successful, that it forged a hegemony of sort amongst
the many sub-groupings of the indigenous people, who were now inthe many sub-groupings of the indigenous people, who were now in
favour of identifying themselves more as “favour of identifying themselves more as “MalaysMalays”, because foremost”, because foremost
they were all Muslims – breaking the previous barrier to their unity.they were all Muslims – breaking the previous barrier to their unity.

CHAMPACHAMPA

Being an important transit along the sea-route to China for Muslim Arab,Being an important transit along the sea-route to China for Muslim Arab,
Persian and Indian traders, inevitably Islam was spread in Champa (oldPersian and Indian traders, inevitably Islam was spread in Champa (old
name for Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam).name for Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam).
MAULANA IBRAHIM AS-SAMARQANDIMAULANA IBRAHIM AS-SAMARQANDI, who came via Gujerat for, who came via Gujerat for
DA’WAHDA’WAH, was so successful in spreading Islam that the king took him as, was so successful in spreading Islam that the king took him as
son-in-law. His sons from this marriage were later nurtured to becomeson-in-law. His sons from this marriage were later nurtured to become
DU’ATDU’AT who helped spread Islam to Java, Borneo and the islands in thewho helped spread Islam to Java, Borneo and the islands in the
Malay Archipelago.Malay Archipelago.
It must be noted that this region was then part of an ancientIt must be noted that this region was then part of an ancient SRIVIJAYASRIVIJAYA
andand MAJAPAHITMAJAPAHIT wide dominion.wide dominion.
IN CHAMPA (INDO-CHINA)

And there was a relationship betweenAnd there was a relationship between CHAMPACHAMPA and the thenand the then
MAJAPAHITMAJAPAHIT kingdom through marriage with a princess (who was thekingdom through marriage with a princess (who was the
sister of the wife ofsister of the wife of MAULANA IBRAHIM AS-SAMARQANDIMAULANA IBRAHIM AS-SAMARQANDI ). This presented). This presented
a significant opportunity for futurea significant opportunity for future DA’WAHDA’WAH ,, not only in JAVA but other regionnot only in JAVA but other region
under theunder the MAJAPAHITMAJAPAHIT dominion.dominion.
Despite the changing power affecting its political-landscape which fragmentedDespite the changing power affecting its political-landscape which fragmented
this region into Vietnam, Laos and Kampuchea, even today, the Muslims in thethis region into Vietnam, Laos and Kampuchea, even today, the Muslims in the
INDO-CHINAINDO-CHINA are still known as theare still known as the CHAMSCHAMS . Not only do they understand and. Not only do they understand and
spoke Malay, but usesspoke Malay, but uses JAWIJAWI text in learning and transmitting lessons on Islamtext in learning and transmitting lessons on Islam
even to this day, and would easily identify themselves as amongst the Malayseven to this day, and would easily identify themselves as amongst the Malays
of theof the NUSANTARANUSANTARA..
IN CHAMPA (INDO-CHINA)

SULUSULU
MINADANAOMINADANAO

According to the “According to the “TARSILATARSILA” (historical records of the Muslims in” (historical records of the Muslims in
Southern Philippines), Islam was brought here by one respectfullySouthern Philippines), Islam was brought here by one respectfully
called “called “KARIM-UL-MAKHDUMKARIM-UL-MAKHDUM “.“.
He wasHe was SAYYID ZAINAL ALAM BARAKAT IBN SAYYID JAMALUDDEEN AL-SAYYID ZAINAL ALAM BARAKAT IBN SAYYID JAMALUDDEEN AL-
HUSSEINIYHUSSEINIY, who also was called, who also was called TUAN SHARIF AWLIYYATUAN SHARIF AWLIYYA (cica 1469CE).(cica 1469CE).
He was the father of another famousHe was the father of another famous DA-’IEDA-’IE who was sent to spreadwho was sent to spread
Islam in Java,Islam in Java, MAULANA MALIK IBRAHEEMMAULANA MALIK IBRAHEEM (Sunan Gerisek).(Sunan Gerisek).
Another personality wasAnother personality was AMINULLAH AL-MAKHDUMAMINULLAH AL-MAKHDUM (Sayyid al-Niqab);(Sayyid al-Niqab);
who was recorded to have come with some Chinese Muslims to spreadwho was recorded to have come with some Chinese Muslims to spread
Islam here.Islam here.
IN THE SULU AND MINDANAO

Later came the entourage ofLater came the entourage of RAJAH BAGUINDARAJAH BAGUINDA from Sumatra, but thefrom Sumatra, but the
spread of Islam into the hinterland in thespread of Islam into the hinterland in the SULUSULU was very much throughwas very much through
SAYYID ABU BAKARSAYYID ABU BAKAR who was made Sultan inwho was made Sultan in SULUSULU known asknown as SHARIFSHARIF
HASHIMHASHIM, followed from, followed from JOHORJOHOR after him aafter him a MOHADUMMOHADUM and anotherand another
scholarscholar ‘ALAWI BALPAKI‘ALAWI BALPAKI ((BalfaqqihBalfaqqih).).
In theIn the MINDANAOMINDANAO, the notable personality was, the notable personality was SHARIF MUHAMMADSHARIF MUHAMMAD
KEBUNGSUWAN ,KEBUNGSUWAN , who was accredited with reinvigorating the spread ofwho was accredited with reinvigorating the spread of
Islam here in 1515CE.Islam here in 1515CE.
The process of peaceful Islamization changes with the coming of theThe process of peaceful Islamization changes with the coming of the
Spaniards (as also the Portugese,Dutch and British in other parts ofSpaniards (as also the Portugese,Dutch and British in other parts of
NUSANTARANUSANTARA).).

This was because, they came as part of the imperialistic zeal to evangeliseThis was because, they came as part of the imperialistic zeal to evangelise
the rest of ‘heathen’ (i.e. Non-Christian) world through conquest.the rest of ‘heathen’ (i.e. Non-Christian) world through conquest.
Their meeting the Muslims here evoked their Crusading enmity againstTheir meeting the Muslims here evoked their Crusading enmity against
the Moors (Muslims of North Africa) such that the Mindanao/Suluthe Moors (Muslims of North Africa) such that the Mindanao/Sulu
Muslims were called by them asMuslims were called by them as MOROSMOROS. Their usage of militaristic,. Their usage of militaristic,
imperialistic approach and force conversion upon whom the Spanishimperialistic approach and force conversion upon whom the Spanish
conquered (also happened in the Carribean and Latin America) had to beconquered (also happened in the Carribean and Latin America) had to be
responded withresponded with JIHADJIHAD by the Muslims in this region. Thus this resistanceby the Muslims in this region. Thus this resistance
via arm struggle by the Muslims should never be misinterpreted (whichvia arm struggle by the Muslims should never be misinterpreted (which
the West had tried to potray), as though Islam was spread by the sword.the West had tried to potray), as though Islam was spread by the sword.

MELAKAMELAKA

KEDAHKEDAH was one of the earliest states to accept Islam through efforts ofwas one of the earliest states to accept Islam through efforts of
muballighmuballigh fromfrom YEMENYEMEN viavia GUJERATGUJERAT,, ACHEHACHEH andand PATTANIPATTANI..
From there soon it spread toFrom there soon it spread to KELANTANKELANTAN andand TRENGGANUTRENGGANU..
The fall ofThe fall of SRIVIJAYASRIVIJAYA led to a princeled to a prince Sang Nila UtamaSang Nila Utama @ Sri Maharaja@ Sri Maharaja
Sang Nila Utama Parameswara Batara Sri Tri BuanaSang Nila Utama Parameswara Batara Sri Tri Buana ( 1299-1347 M)( 1299-1347 M)
fleeingfleeing PALEMBANGPALEMBANG who then founded the kingdom on what waswho then founded the kingdom on what was
previously called the island ofpreviously called the island of TEMASIKTEMASIK renaming it asrenaming it as SINGAPURASINGAPURA..
There this little kingdom ofThere this little kingdom of SINGAPURASINGAPURA thrived but was envied by thethrived but was envied by the
northern kingdom ofnorthern kingdom of SIAMSIAM as well as the risingas well as the rising MAJAPAHITMAJAPAHIT ..
THE PENINSULA AND RISE OF MELAKA SULTANATE

This Malay kingdom had several rulers, as remnant of theThis Malay kingdom had several rulers, as remnant of the SRIVIJAYASRIVIJAYA
empire, until its last king had to flee due to the invasion ofempire, until its last king had to flee due to the invasion of PATIH GADJAHPATIH GADJAH
MADAHMADAH of theof the MAJAPAHITMAJAPAHIT.. He was its last kingHe was its last king Paduka Sri MaharajaPaduka Sri Maharaja
PARAMESWARAPARAMESWARA @@Raja Iskandar ShahRaja Iskandar Shah (1388 - 1391 M) who fled(1388 - 1391 M) who fled
SINGAPURASINGAPURA and established theand established the MELAKAMELAKA empire on the Malay Peninsulaempire on the Malay Peninsula..
When heWhen he embraced Islam as Sultan Muhammad Shah, he forged allianceembraced Islam as Sultan Muhammad Shah, he forged alliance
withwith PASAIPASAI and other Muslim kingdoms and gradually grew inand other Muslim kingdoms and gradually grew in
importance not just for trade, but also as centre of Islamic learnings too.importance not just for trade, but also as centre of Islamic learnings too.
In 1409CE, whenIn 1409CE, when Admiral Muhammad Zheng HeAdmiral Muhammad Zheng He (ChengHo) visited(ChengHo) visited MELAKAMELAKA, there, there
were already Muslims from Arabia, Persia and India.were already Muslims from Arabia, Persia and India.

Notwithstanding that theNotwithstanding that the DA’WAHDA’WAH initiatives which had ealier begun ininitiatives which had ealier begun in
ACHEHACHEH (since 173H), then to(since 173H), then to PATTANIPATTANI and continued to spread in theand continued to spread in the
peninsula, the importance of Islamic scholars as advisers to the kingspeninsula, the importance of Islamic scholars as advisers to the kings
ensure royal patronage to Islamic propagation and proliferation ofensure royal patronage to Islamic propagation and proliferation of
centres for Islamic learning in the archipelago.centres for Islamic learning in the archipelago.
As it grew in importance,As it grew in importance, MELAKAMELAKA soon became one of these centressoon became one of these centres
which were sometimes referred to as one of thewhich were sometimes referred to as one of the SERAMBI MAKKAHSERAMBI MAKKAH
(“the verandah of Mecca(“the verandah of Mecca”).”).

BRIEF HISTORY OF THEBRIEF HISTORY OF THE
LEGENDARY ‘NINE SAINTS’ OF JAVALEGENDARY ‘NINE SAINTS’ OF JAVA
TO BE CONTINUEDTO BE CONTINUED

HOPE TO FURTHER ELUCIDATE THISHOPE TO FURTHER ELUCIDATE THIS
IN SEPARATE SESSION –IN SEPARATE SESSION – INSH-ALLAH!INSH-ALLAH!
Presentation by: Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (Singapore)

http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/
http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/
http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/
http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/
http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/
http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/
http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/
All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:
89All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2016))

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