Research and Innovation in Social Science Education Journal (RISSEJ)
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): June

Power Dynamics and Social Stratification in Pesantren: A Sociological Perspective

Muhammad Syaifullah (Universitas Islam Negeri Palangka Raya)
Noorazmah Hidayati (Universitas Islam Negeri Palangkara Raya)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study examines the dynamics of power and social stratification within pesantren and madrasah through a critical sociological lens. The analysis incorporates Max Weber’s theory of authority, Antonio Gramsci’s concept of hegemony, and Pierre Bourdieu’s framework of habitus, capital, and symbolic violence. Findings reveal that the authority of the Kyai is legitimized through scholarly lineage and spiritual obedience, producing a stable hierarchical structure supported by cultural hegemony. Social stratification emerges through a combination of ascribed status (genealogy) and achieved status (religious competence and functional roles), including the strategic contributions of the Nyai, Senior Students, and Santri Ndalem. Modernization and labor-market demands have stimulated structural changes, generating new institutional stratification between traditional (salaf) and modern pesantren. The study concludes that pesantren represents a dynamic social arena where spiritual power, social hierarchy, and modern pressures interact, shaping institutional resilience and the social mobility of its alumni.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

rissej

Publisher

Subject

Education Social Sciences Other

Description

Research and Innovation in Social Science Education Journal (RISSEJ) publisher articles of original research and conceptual studies with themes related to education and learning in the field of social science at schools and to study social problems. The journal includes, but is not limited to the ...