Mandailing Ulama in Modern Malaysia: The Intellectual Network and Works of Shaykh ‘Abd al-Qādir al-Mandīlī

Abstract

Abstract: This article examines the intellectual network and manuscript legacy of Shaykh ‘Abd al-Qādir al-Mandīlī, a scholar from South Tapanuli, Indonesia, who dedicated his knowledge abroad in Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. The study employs a literature review approach with a historical perspective. Primary sources for this research consist of all works authored by the scholar, written entirely in Malay with Arabic script. The study demonstrates his dissemination of reformist ideas through religious education in both Malaysia and the Haramain, alongside the composition of numerous yellow books (kitab kuning). He fostered relationships with various scholars and attracted numerous students in both the Haramain and Malaysia. All his scholars are prominent figures in the Shāfi‘ī and Ash‘ari schools. Additionally, he propagated neo-Sufism by harmonizing between Shariah and Sufism. This study further corroborates Azyumardi Azra's theory on the network of scholars. Keywords: ulama, Mandailing, Malaysia, intellectual networks, Islamic manuscripts