Perbandingan Filsafat Sayyidul Ayyam dan Al-Ghazali tentang Cinta Ilahi

The concept of divine love, or *cinta ilahi*, holds a central place in Islamic mysticism, with numerous scholars and thinkers offering their unique perspectives on its nature and attainment. Among these, two prominent figures stand out: Sayyidul Ayyam and Imam al-Ghazali. Both figures, deeply immersed in the study of Islamic philosophy and Sufism, developed distinct yet interconnected interpretations of *cinta ilahi*. This essay delves into the comparative philosophies of Sayyidul Ayyam and al-Ghazali, exploring their respective views on the essence of divine love, its manifestation in the human soul, and the path to achieving it.

The Essence of Divine Love: A Comparative Perspective

Sayyidul Ayyam, known for his profound insights into the human soul and its relationship with the divine, viewed *cinta ilahi* as an inherent longing within the human heart. He believed that the soul, created by God, possesses an innate yearning for its source, a yearning that can only be fulfilled through a deep and abiding love for the Divine. This love, according to Sayyidul Ayyam, is not merely an emotional response but a fundamental aspect of the soul's very being. Al-Ghazali, on the other hand, while acknowledging the inherent longing for the Divine, emphasized the role of knowledge and contemplation in cultivating *cinta ilahi*. He argued that true love for God arises from a profound understanding of His attributes and perfections, gained through rigorous intellectual pursuit and spiritual introspection. For al-Ghazali, *cinta ilahi* is not merely a feeling but a conscious choice, a deliberate act of submission and devotion to the Divine.

The Manifestation of Divine Love in the Human Soul

Sayyidul Ayyam saw the manifestation of *cinta ilahi* in the human soul as a transformative process, leading to a profound shift in one's priorities and values. He believed that the love for God, once awakened, would gradually consume the soul, purging it of worldly desires and attachments. This transformation, according to Sayyidul Ayyam, would result in a state of complete surrender to the Divine will, characterized by humility, selflessness, and a deep sense of peace and contentment. Al-Ghazali, while acknowledging the transformative power of *cinta ilahi*, emphasized its manifestation in the realm of action and behavior. He believed that true love for God would be reflected in one's conduct, leading to a life of piety, righteousness, and service to humanity. For al-Ghazali, *cinta ilahi* is not merely an internal experience but a force that shapes one's outward actions and interactions with the world.

The Path to Achieving Divine Love

Both Sayyidul Ayyam and al-Ghazali recognized the importance of spiritual practices in cultivating *cinta ilahi*. Sayyidul Ayyam emphasized the role of *dhikr*, or remembrance of God, as a key to awakening the soul's inherent longing for the Divine. He believed that through constant remembrance, the soul would gradually become attuned to the presence of God, leading to a deepening of love and devotion. Al-Ghazali, while acknowledging the importance of *dhikr*, also stressed the role of *muhasabah*, or self-reflection, in the pursuit of *cinta ilahi*. He believed that through introspection and examination of one's thoughts, words, and actions, one could identify and eliminate the obstacles that hinder the growth of love for God.

Conclusion

The philosophies of Sayyidul Ayyam and al-Ghazali, while distinct in their emphasis, converge on the fundamental importance of *cinta ilahi* in the spiritual journey. Both figures recognized the transformative power of divine love, its ability to elevate the human soul and guide it towards a state of union with the Divine. While Sayyidul Ayyam emphasized the inherent longing of the soul and the transformative power of *dhikr*, al-Ghazali stressed the role of knowledge, contemplation, and self-reflection in cultivating *cinta ilahi*. Ultimately, both perspectives offer valuable insights into the nature and attainment of divine love, providing a rich tapestry of understanding for those seeking to deepen their connection with the Divine.