Sunan Drajat's Tomb

Historical Origins and the Figure of Raden Qasim

Raden Qasim was the youngest son of Sunan Ampel (Raden Rahmat) and Dewi Condrowati (Nyai Ageng Manila). He was born around 1470 AD and was the full brother of Sunan Bonang. After completing his religious education under his father's guidance in Ampeldenta, Raden Qasim was assigned to spread da'wah in the northern coastal area of Lamongan.

Initially, he settled in Banjaranyar Village, but later moved to a higher area now known as Drajat Village. The land was a gift from the Demak Kingdom as a form of appreciation for his success in converting the coastal community to Islam and his ability to organize the community's social life. Sunan Drajat established a pesantren (Islamic boarding school) on a hill called "Dalem Duwur," which is now the location of his tomb complex. He passed away in 1522 AD and was buried at his final place of struggle.

Architectural Characteristics and Site Layout

The Makam Sunan Drajat site exhibits a captivating transitional architectural style, blending the Hindu-Buddhist aesthetics of the Majapahit era with Islamic philosophical values. The complex is built on terraced land consisting of seven levels or terraces, reflecting the spiritual stages in Sufi teachings.

1. Gateways and Boundary Walls: The building structures at this site are dominated by the use of white stone and red brick without cement, employing the gosok technique. Bentur and Paduraksa shaped gateways welcome visitors at each level, similar to the structure of temples in Bali, but adorned with carvings of floral and vine motifs that avoid realistic depictions of living beings.

2. Main Mausoleum: Sunan Drajat's tomb is located on the highest terrace (the seventh). The cungkup or protective building for the tomb is a magnificent teak wood structure with distinctive "Pesisiran" (coastal) carvings. The main uniqueness lies in the decoration of ceramic plates from the Ming and Qing dynasties, affixed to the wooden and stone walls, indicating trade and cultural relations with China during that period.

3. Seven-Step Philosophy: The use of seven levels not only follows the natural contour of Drajat hill but also symbolizes the seven degrees of humanity in achieving perfection before the Creator.

Historical Significance and the "Catur Piwulang" Teachings

Sunan Drajat is known as a figure who emphasized da'wah through socio-economic and artistic channels. Unlike some other members of the Walisongo who focused more on political or purely theological aspects, Sunan Drajat paid great attention to the welfare of his people. He is known as a pioneer of social security in his time.

One of the unique historical facts is the presence of "Catur Piwulang" (Four Teachings) carved on reliefs in this tomb complex:

• Menehono teken marang wong kang wuto (Give a cane to the blind).
• Menehono mangan marang wong kang luwe (Give food to the hungry).
• Menehono busono marang wong kang wuda (Give clothes to the naked).
• Menehono iyupan marang wong kang kodanan (Give shelter to those caught in the rain).

These teachings reflect a high work ethic and social concern, which made Islam peacefully accepted by the people of Lamongan without coercion.

Cultural Heritage Objects and the Singo Mengkok Gamelan

Within the tomb complex, there is a museum that houses various important artifacts. One of the most historical collections is the Gamelan Singo Mengkok. This gamelan was used by Sunan Drajat as a medium for da'wah. The name "Singo Mengkok" refers to the physical form of the instrument, resembling a lion bowing or restraining itself. The architecture of this gamelan symbolizes the conquest of animalistic desires by human wisdom. The use of music as a medium for da'wah demonstrates how flexible Sunan Drajat was in blending Javanese culture with the message of monotheism.

In addition to the gamelan, the museum also stores lontar palm leaf manuscripts, bronze household items, and ancient Qur'ans handwritten on parchment.

Preservation Efforts and Site Status

Makam Sunan Drajat has been designated as a National Cultural Heritage Site. The East Java Provincial Government and Cultural Preservation Center (BPK) region XI regularly conduct conservation efforts. Major renovations were carried out in 1992-1994 to strengthen the building structures that had begun to weaken due to age and natural factors.

The construction of a representative Sunan Drajat Museum near the tomb complex is a strategic step to separate pilgrimage activities (religious) from historical study activities (educational). This aims to ensure that valuable artifacts maintain their humidity and are protected from physical damage due to massive visitor contact.

Religious and Cultural Role in the Modern Era

To this day, Makam Sunan Drajat remains a spiritual center of gravity in East Java. Every year, especially during the months of Muharram and Syawal, thousands of pilgrims come from various parts of the archipelago. The presence of this site also drives the local economy of the Paciran community through religious tourism and the creative handicraft industry.

The historical uniqueness of Sunan Drajat lies in his ability to synchronize religious devotion with financial independence. He left not only an architecturally beautiful tomb but also a set of values about the importance of social generosity. This site serves as a reminder that the history of Islam in the Nusantara was built on a foundation of compassion, noble art, and respect for human dignity.