Arabic language in Aceh refers to the historical use and study of Classical Arabic within the Sultanate of Acheh for religious, legal, and literary purposes. The presence of Arabic terms in the 16th‑century Malay translation of the Burda of al‑Busiri (e.g., shaitan, sunnat) demonstrates the bilingual competence of Acehnese scholars who incorporated Arabic theological vocabulary into Malay texts (pages 52‑58).
Educational Institutions
- Madrasahs: Taught Qur’an recitation, Arabic grammar (nahwu), and rhetoric, enabling the translation of works like the Burda.
- Sufi lodges (zawiyahs): Emphasised Arabic dhikr and the study of prophetic traditions (hadith).
Literary Impact
Arabic served as the source language for many Acehnese devotional poems and legal codes. The translation of the Burda illustrates how Arabic literary forms were adapted into Malay syair structures, enriching Acehnese literary tradition.
See Also
- Malay translation of the Burda (16th century)
- Islam in Aceh
- Acehnese literature
- Prophet Muhammad
- Al‑Busiri
Source
16th‑century Malay translation of the Burda of al‑Busiri, manuscript, pages 52‑58, DLP‑54, digitised as 20260707_232246_DLP-54-Een_16de_eeuwse_Maleise_vertaling_van_de_Burda_van_al_Bu_s_i_ri_OCR.txt.