<![CDATA[ This study examines the social dynamics of Pondok Pesantren Tadzkirotul Ikhwan in shaping students’ character by integrating the perspectives of symbolic interaction and habitus. The background of this research lies in the fact that character formation in pesantren is not only produced through formal rules, but also through daily meanings, repeated practices, and social relations. This study focuses on three main aspects: the symbols that emerge in the relationships among the kiai, ustadz, and santri; the habituation process that shapes students’ dispositions; and the role of horizontal interaction and personal reflection in pesantren life. The research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through guided observation, interviews with the pesantren caregiver, ustadz, and santri, as well as supporting document analysis. The findings show that symbols such as respect, bowing, folded hands, kissing the teacher’s hand, blessing, deliberation, and closeness to the caregiver function as a social language that teaches manners and moral awareness. Students’ habitus develops through Qur’anic learning routines, congregational prayers, involvement in pesantren activities, personal correction, and communal living. The study concludes that character formation in pesantren occurs through a dialectic between symbolic meaning and repeated habituation, making students’ character grow through relationships, examples, correction, and shared life experiences.]]>
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