Tuban, IO – Sunan Bonang’s grave is one of the historical and religious tourist destinations in Tuban Regency, East Java. This is because Sunan Bonang was a member of the Wali Songo who were instrumental in the spread of Islam in Java.
Sunan Bonang, whose real name is Raden Makdum Ibrahim, is the son of Raden Rahmat or Sunan Ampel, and his mother, Nyai Ageng Manila (Dewi Condrowati), who is the daughter of the Regent of Tuban, namely Arya Teja. Sunan Bonang’s tomb complex is located in Kauman Hamlet, Kutorejo Village. The approach that Sunan Bonang took in preaching was to utilize the local culture and traditions that already existed in society. He also used arts including music, using instrument such as gamelan and literary arts. One of the very popular stories of Sunan Bonang’s Sufism teachings is “Tombo Ati” which consists of tembang (songs).
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The tomb complex is divided into three courtyards. Every day there are always pilgrims who visit his grave. Before the month of Ramadhan, the number of religious tourists will swell. Usually the pilgrims will sit cross-legged and recite prayers together under the guidance of their groups’ respective leaders.
(IO/M Syauqi Amrullah)