LEARNING OF THE KITAB KUNING IN RELATION TO ISLAMIC LEGAL EDUCATION WITHIN THE PESANTREN TRADITION IN INDONESIA

Abstract

The Kitab Kuning represents a classical Islamic scholarly heritage that has long functioned as the primary foundation of pesantren education in Indonesia. However, the era of modernization, social transformation, and technological advancement has introduced significant challenges to its preservation and continuity. This study aims to identify these challenges and examine opportunities for innovation, particularly through the integration of traditional learning methods with modern technology in the study of the Kitab Kuning. Employing a qualitative approach through literature review and content analysis of academic journals, pesantren education policy documents, and online sources concerning the digitalization of the Kitab Kuning, the study reveals several major challenges, including the shortage of qualified teachers, limited instructional time, the negative impact of technology, and the necessity for curriculum reform. Despite these challenges, various digital initiatives—such as digital Kitab applications, pesantren e-learning platforms, and interactive tafsir tools—have begun to be implemented in Islamic boarding schools such as Pesantren Tebuireng and Pesantren Syaichona Cholil. The study concludes that the integration of traditional learning systems with digital innovation offers substantial potential for preserving the Kitab Kuning in the modern era, provided that the essential values of sanad, adab, and intellectual rigor are consistently maintained.