Wali Songo, or the Nine Saints of Java, were influential Islamic figures in Indonesia who played a significant role in spreading Islam throughout the archipelago. Here’s a brief overview of each Wali Songo:

• The Nine Wali Songo
  • 1. Sunan Ampel: Known for promoting societal revivification through the philosophy “Moh Limo,” which emphasizes avoiding five vices: drunkenness, promiscuity, gambling, opium, and stealing. He’s also famous for accepting students from all social classes.
  • 2. Sunan Malik Ibrahim: A member of the Kubrawi Sufi order and father of Sunan Ampel. He founded an Islamic boarding school in Gresik, near Surabaya, and was known for his devotion to the Quran.
  • 3. Sunan Giri: A renowned political and religious leader who developed an influential Islamic school known as Giri Kedaton. He also conducted missionary work on several Indonesian islands.
  • 4. Sunan Bonang: A prolific writer and poet who composed gamelan songs to spread Islamic teachings. He was a defender of Islamic orthodoxy and had a notable dispute with Siti Jenar, another Javanese wali.
  • 5. Sunan Drajat: Known for his intelligence and social vision, Sunan Drajat developed an extensive social welfare system to provide for the needy. He’s also a renowned composer of gamelan music.
  • 6. Sunan Muria: A wandering teacher who spread Islamic teachings in rural communities. He’s famous for his approachable and understanding nature.
  • 7. Sunan Kudus: Developed the traditional Sundanese puppet arts, wayang golek, and established the mosque of Kudus, which features doors from the Majapahit Palace.
  • 8. Sunan Kalijaga: Used traditional Javanese arts like wayang and gamelan to spread Islam. He’s known for synthesizing indigenous Javanese traditions with Islamic teachings.
  • 9. Sunan Gunung Jati: Founded the Sultanate of Banten and battled against Portuguese forces in Java. His shrine is a popular site for pilgrims seeking financial relief.

These nine saints are deeply embedded in Javanese history and represent an important chapter in Indonesia’s Islamic history ¹.