Datu Sanggul's Tomb

Origin and Figure of Syekh Abdussamad

Datu Sanggul's real name was Syekh Abdussamad. He was not a native of Tanah Banjar, but a migrant from Palembang who traveled to seek knowledge into the interior of Kalimantan. The title "Datu Sanggul" is closely related to the word "Sanggul" in the Banjar language, which means to wait. Local legends tell that he was often seen "menyanggul" (waiting) for prayer times or waiting for divine inspiration by the riverbanks or under trees.

Another version states that the name is related to his ability to "menyanggul" or block calamities that would befall the community. This figure is estimated to have lived at the same time as the great Banjar scholar, Syekh Muhammad Arsyad al-Banjari (Datu Kalampayan). The relationship between the two is one of the most interesting historical fragments in South Kalimantan, depicting the meeting between the formal educational path of scholars (Datu Kalampayan in Mecca) and the path of sainthood and divine knowledge (Datu Sanggul).

Architecture and Construction Details of the Site

Makam Datu Sanggul exhibits the characteristic religious architecture of the Banjar people, which has undergone transformations over time. Physically, the main tomb building, known as the "Kubah" (dome), has a layered roof structure that reflects the influence of Kalimantan's vernacular architecture. The use of ulin wood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), known as local ironwood, is dominant in the foundation structure and some original interior parts.

Datu Sanggul's tombstone is placed inside a shrine adorned with yellow curtains, a color symbolizing nobility and purity in Banjar tradition. The area around the tomb has been expanded to accommodate thousands of pilgrims, with cool ceramic floors and sturdy concrete pillars. Although it has undergone many modern renovations, the sacred aura is maintained through the preservation of traditional ornaments and the tomb's layout, which has remained unchanged since ancient times.

Historical Significance and Important Events

One of the most frequently recounted historical events in Banjar oral literature (manaqib) is the spiritual meeting between Datu Sanggul and Datu Kalampayan in Masjidil Haram, Mecca. It is told that Datu Sanggul miraculously appeared in Mecca every Friday to perform the Friday prayer, even though physically he was in Tatakan, Tapin.

This event became an important turning point in the history of Islam in Kalimantan, as it proved the existence of diverse paths to God. Datu Kalampayan, who was studying in Mecca at the time, greatly admired the depth of Datu Sanggul's knowledge of gnosis. From this interaction, the phenomenal "Kitab Sabilal Muhtadin" was born, with some parts reportedly inspired by their discussions. The existence of Makam Datu Sanggul serves as a monument reminding us that the Tapin region was once a center of profound Sufi learning.

Related Figures and Historical Context

This site is closely related to the reign of the Banjar Sultanate under Sultan Tahmidullah II. During that period, there was a massive intellectual awakening in Islam. Datu Sanggul represented a faction of scholars who worked at the grassroots level, interacting directly with the people of the interior, and using cultural approaches in their da'wah (preaching). He was also known to have close relationships with other Datuks in Kalimantan, forming a network of scholars that ensured social and spiritual stability in the Barito region and its surroundings.

Preservation Status and Management

Currently, Makam Datu Sanggul is collectively managed by the Tapin Regency government along with heirs and the local community. The site has been designated as one of the leading religious tourist attractions in South Kalimantan. Preservation efforts are focused on regular cleaning of the area, providing facilities for pilgrims, and documenting oral history to prevent it from being lost to time.

The Tapin Regency government periodically carries out road infrastructure improvements to the location to facilitate accessibility. The latest renovations include the expansion of the meeting hall and parking area without disturbing the core structure of the tomb, in order to maintain the authenticity of the site as a cultural heritage with archaeological and anthropological value.

Cultural and Religious Importance

Makam Datu Sanggul is the center of the "Ziarah" (pilgrimage) tradition in South Kalimantan. Every year, especially during certain months in the Hijriah calendar or during holidays, thousands of people from all over Kalimantan and even from outside the island come to seek blessings and pray for him. The tradition of reciting Maulid Habsyi and communal prayers at this location has become an inseparable part of the cultural identity of the Tapin people.

This site also symbolizes harmony. Although it is an Islamic site, many local wisdom values are preserved here, such as the principles of "Bubuhan" (familyhood) and mutual cooperation in maintaining the cleanliness of the tomb. For the Banjar people, visiting Makam Datu Sanggul is a way to connect their spiritual lineage and remember the glory of Islamic civilization in the past.

Unique Historical Fact: Kitab Datu Sanggul

One unique fact that is rarely known is the existence of "Kitab Datu Sanggul" which contains knowledge of monotheism and gnosis. Unlike the written works of scholars in general, Datu Sanggul's teachings were mostly transmitted orally and through Banjar poetry containing high philosophy. The existence of this tomb in Tatakan Village is not without reason; this area was once a strategic trade and da'wah route connecting the coastal areas with the interior of the Meratus Mountains, making Datu Sanggul an effective cultural bridge in his time.