From the heart of Tebet Jakarta Selatan rises Mushala Al Awwabin. Its story begins not in grand architecture but in a simple gathering. In 1962 Almaghfurlah Abuya KH Abdurrahman Nawi started traditional religious studies in his home. This was in Gang Melinjo IV Jalan Tebet Barat VI H. He called it As Shalafiyyah. It meant following the way of life of those who came before. People from across Jakarta attended. Abuya Nawi dedicated himself to teaching. He also continued his own studies. His teachers included Al Habib Ali bin Husein Al Athas Bungur and Sayyidil Walid Al Habib Abdurrahman bin Ahmad As Shegaf.
Mushala Al Awwabin grew from these humble beginnings. It evolved from Abuya Nawi’s pengajian. It transformed into the Al Awwabin educational institution. Eventually it became the Yayasan Pondok Pesantren Al Awwabin. This had two branches: Pondok Pesantren Al Awwabin Sawangan Depok and Pondok Pesantren Al Awwabin Bedahan Sawangan Depok. The main center remained in Tebet South Jakarta.
The Mushala Al Awwabin wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a beacon of knowledge. From 1984 it taught Islamic studies using books by earlier scholars. It actively spread Islam. Its graduates spread across Indonesia sharing a message of peaceful Islam.
In 1979 the Mushala Al Awwabin was given its name. It replaced the earlier As-Salafiah. The building was a two-story structure. It was built on land owned by Abuya Nawi’s family. The building itself was inaugurated by KH Idham Chalid.
This is more than a building. It’s a testament to faith. It shows the power of community. Mushala Al Awwabin’s story reflects the enduring spirit of Islam in Jakarta. It’s a story that continues to unfold. It’s a place where faith education and community intersect. Stand here and feel the history. Feel the devotion. Feel the legacy of Abuya KH Abdurrahman Nawi. This quiet place holds the echoes of countless prayers and lessons. It’s a vital part of Jakarta’s rich tapestry.