Resolving an Inherent Controversy: How Pesantren’s Philosophical Ideals Confront the Reality of Bullying

Bullying in Indonesian Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) remains a critical issue, often addressed with generic interventions that overlook the unique cultural and philosophical contexts of these institutions. This study challenges such universalist approaches by proposing a bottom-up, culturally-rooted anti-bullying model. The primary objective was to identify the core philosophical values of a specific institution, Pesantren Nurul Yaqin, and operationalize them into a structured intervention framework. Using a qualitative case study methodology, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentary analysis, and then analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that the inherent values of humility (tawadhu’), Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwah Islamiyah), and benevolence (ihsan) function as a powerful, synergistic antithesis to bullying by fostering a protective socio-spiritual ecosystem. The research culminates in the formulation of a contextual anti-bullying program that translates these values into actionable strategies, adapting the internationally recognized Whole-School Approach (WSA) to the pesantren’s local wisdom. This study’s principal contribution is a replicable, evidence-based model that bridges the gap between indigenous philosophy and practical intervention, offering a sustainable path for faith-based institutions to cultivate safer, character-driven educational environments grounded in their own authentic traditions.