Da‘wah Communication Strategies of the Caregivers of Al Kahfi Islamic Boarding School, Sepulu Bangkalan

Abstract

ABSTRACT : This study aims to analyze the da‘wah communication strategies implemented at Al Kahfi Islamic Boarding School in Sepulu Bangkalan and to examine their effectiveness in the process of student character building. Using a qualitative approach with a field research design, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, literature review, and documentation. The analysis integrates Da‘wah Communication Theory as the primary framework and Interpersonal Communication Theory as a supporting perspective to understand the relational patterns between the kiai and the students. The findings reveal that the da‘wah communication strategies employed at Al Kahfi are integrative and contextual. The kiai combine sermons, dialogic methods, classical Islamic text instruction, informal approaches, and personal example as effective media of da‘wah. The interpersonal communication established between the kiai and the students strengthens the internalization of religious values, as warm, intensive, and open relationships encourage deeper acceptance of da‘wah messages. These strategies are not merely informative but also transformative, influencing students’ religious attitudes and daily behavior. The study concludes that the success of da‘wah at Al Kahfi Islamic Boarding School is determined by the synergy between the da‘wah messages, the methods of delivery, and the strength of interpersonal relationships. These findings contribute to the development of da‘wah communication studies within pesantren contexts and offer implications for reinforcing relational-oriented da‘wah models in traditional Islamic educational institutions.