MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Kiai Ahmad Dahlan’s curiosity extended far beyond religious studies. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he even delved into the study of poisons and snakes.
Budi Setiawan, Chair of the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center (MDMC), recently shed light on Dahlan’s childhood. Known as Ahmad Darwis in his youth, Dahlan displayed early signs of leadership and a compassionate nature.
Budi shared a story that exemplifies Dahlan’s protective instincts. “His mischievousness was that of a bright young man with a strong leadership spirit. Once, during a football game, when an opponent tried to bully a smaller teammate, Darwis intervened and challenged him to a fight,” explained Budi, citing research by Yusron Asrofi.
Dahlan’s curiosity knew no bounds. He was not confined to religious studies; he actively sought knowledge across various subjects, including science. This eagerness to learn made him a well-rounded and knowledgeable individual, even encompassing the properties of poisons and snakes in his studies.
“Dahlan’s pursuits included the science of poisons and snakes. His curiosity was limitless, and he also enjoyed typical childhood activities like jumping into rivers,” Budi elaborated during his lecture on Monday (June 10).
Budi, a descendant of Kiai Ahmad Dahlan himself, spoke about Dahlan’s comfortable upbringing. His father, K.H. Abu Bakar bin Sulaiman, held the esteemed position of Ketib, a palace Muslim cleric, and was also a successful batik merchant.
“Kiai Abu Bakar was known for his innovative spirit and daring nature,” said Budi. “He dared to create the Batik Sudagaran, a type of batik traditionally reserved for royalty.”
By making subtle modifications to the design, Kiai Abu Bakar made this batik accessible to the general public of Kampung Kauman. This act of defiance demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to challenge the status quo.
“An exact replica of the Palace’s design wouldn’t be allowed, but with the altered pattern, it was permitted. Eventually, people from the Palace even entrusted their batik to Kauman to be sold,” Budi explained.
The financial support provided by his parents allowed Kiai Dahlan to fuel his passion for learning. He purchased numerous books and embarked on journeys to various places to seek knowledge from renowned scholars.
