SANTRI’S LANGUAGE ATTITUDE TOWARD JAVANESE LANGUAGE ON PESANTREN TEACHING WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF JAVANESE LANGUAGE MAINTENANCE

Abstract

The research is conducted with the aims at figuring out Javanese language attitude of santri studying at tradisional pesantren in Semarang. It will also reveal the positive output resulted from the attitude in defining Javanese language position within the context of Javanese language maintenance. The data are taken from 15 pesantren in Semarang by giving questionnaire to 20 percent of santri studying on each pesantren. Observation is also conducted to those 15 pesantren with the purpose to observe the use of Javanese language as the medium of teaching in Kitab classes. The result shows that overall, santri have positive attitude toward Javanese language. Almost all of the santri are able to use Javanese Ngoko, and all of them feel the need to use Javanese Krama to communicate with kyai, although they are also aware of the risk of making mistake in using it. The use of Javanese language is viewed not just as a neccesity but it is also considered important sentimentally, that is Javanese language is considered as part of their identity. The use of Javanese language is also considered important in term of continuing pesantren’s tradition. These views reflect the instrumental attachment toward Javanese language as well, that is Javanese language will continue be used as medium of instruction in Kitab teaching, and therefore santri who wish to establish their on pesantren/teaching will feel the need to keep on usi ng Javanese language in their teaching for the future generation.