Dialectics of the Outward and Inward Journey in the Markum Text, Pupuh Sinom Verses 1–21: A Sufi Literary Analysis of the Structure of Safar Ilallah in the Sasak Tradition

Aswandikari

doi:10.63922/ijevss.v5i02.3969

Aswandikari Universitas Mataram, Mataram, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63922/ijevss.v5i02.3969

Keywords: Sufi literature

Abstract

Abstract

This study aims to examine the dialectic between the outward (zahir) and inward (batin) dimensions in the text of Markum Pupuh Sinom stanzas 1–21 through a Sufi literary approach. The main focus is to uncover the structure of the spiritual journey (safar ilallah) as represented in the text, reflecting the transformation process of a sālik. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method with a hermeneutic approach and Sufi analysis, combined with close textual reading of relevant stanzas. The findings reveal that the text represents a gradual Sufi journey, beginning with spiritual awareness through the pursuit of knowledge, followed by the stage of zuhud as detachment from worldly attachments, then entering the phase of inner struggle and conflict (mujāhadah al-nafs), and ultimately reaching the peak of tawakal and total submission to God. Outward activities such as seeking knowledge and traveling function as symbolic representations of deeper inner transformation. The dialectic between zahir and batin demonstrates a complementary relationship, where external actions serve as a medium for spiritual formation. This study concludes that Markum Pupuh Sinom embodies not only universal Sufi teachings but also reflects the integration of Sufi values within the local Sasak cultural context. Therefore, the text can be understood as a conceptual model of spiritual journey relevant for character building and human spirituality development.

Keywords: Sufi literature, safar ilallah, zuhud, mujāhadah al-nafs, tawakal, Sasak tradition.

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