Genealogy of Islamic Religious Education Institutions in Minangkabau: From Surau to Madrasah in the Context of Socio-Religious Transformation

Abstract

This article examines the genealogy of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) institutions in Minangkabau, which underwent a significant transformation from traditional surau-based institutions to the modern madrasah system. The genealogy of Islamic religious education institutions in Minangkabau is examined through the perspective of socio-religious transformation that took place from the 17th century to the early 21st century. Using a historical-descriptive approach and analysis of ulama networks, this study traces the institutional evolution of PAI from the pre-colonial era to the contemporary period of Islamic education reform. The findings indicate that the transformation of PAI institutions in Minangkabau is not merely a structural change, but a reflection of theological negotiations, socio-cultural adaptations, and responses to dynamic modernization. This study traces the institutional continuity and discontinuity from surau as a center of traditional education to madrasah as a modern educational institution. This study finds that the transformation is not linear but dialectical, colored by the tension between tradition and modernity, as well as the influence of global Islamic renewal movements. Structural factors such as Dutch colonialism, the emergence of Kaum Muda, and national education policies play a determinant role in restructuring the Islamic education system in Minangkabau. This article argues that the transformation process reflects the creative adaptation of the Minangkabau Muslim community to broader social changes, while also representing a negotiation of identity between local and universal Islamic values. This research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of Islamic education in Southeast Asia, particularly in the context of societies that adhere to a matrilineal system.