Tentera Islam
Tentera Islam, also known as the Islamic Army, refers to the military wing of the Darul Islam movement in Aceh, Indonesia. This paramilitary group became prominent in the 1950s for adopting guerrilla warfare tactics, reflecting a significant strategic evolution within the wider Darul Islam movement.
Historical Context
The Darul Islam movement, founded in the 1940s, initially aimed to establish an Islamic theocratic state in Indonesia. In Aceh, the Tentera Islam represented the plea for Islamic leadership and self-governance, distilling regional aspirations while resisting central governmental control.
Guerrilla Tactics and Leadership Split
During the 1950s, Tentera Islam’s adoption of guerrilla tactics escalated their activities against the Jakarta government. This armed resistance was a direct challenge to the newly formed Republic of Indonesia, which had only recently gained independence from Dutch colonial rule. The shift towards guerrilla warfare led to internal disputes within the Darul Islam leadership. A faction actively sought the establishment of an Islamic state in northern Sumatra, while others within the group advocated for some form of accommodation with the Jakarta government, aiming to work within the existing national framework.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: Tentera Islam means “Islamic Army” in Malay and Indonesian.
- Arabic Translation: الجيش الإسلامي (Al-Jaish Al-Islami)
- Turkish Translation: İslami Ordu
Further Reading
For a deeper understanding of the Darul Islam movement and its military wing, the Tentera Islam, the following books and academic articles are recommended:
- “Roots of Conflict in Indonesia: Communism and Islamic Expansion” by Justus M. van der Kroef
- “Guerrilla Veterans in Post-war Malaysia” by Karl Hack
- “The Defeat of Dutch Colonialism in Indonesia” by Frances Gouda
- “Aceh: Art and Culture, IIAS Reports Series” edited by Mohd. Taib Osman
Key Takeaways
- Tentera Islam: Paramount military wing operating within the Darul Islam movement, known for its guerrilla tactics.
- Darul Islam Division: The group’s methods caused a rift between those desiring an Islamic state in northern Sumatra and those seeking cooperation with the central government.
- Legacy: The Tentera Islam’s activities were a significant chapter in the early days of Indonesia’s post-independence struggle, reflecting underlying regional tensions and the complex relationship between religion and state-building.
Conclusion
The Tentera Islam played a critical role in the socio-political landscape of 1950s Indonesia. The group’s endeavors represented the fervent desire for an Islamic state amidst regional dissent and national cohesion dynamics, leaving a lasting impact on Aceh and the country’s broader historical narrative.
