Arya, Barong, and Vassago's journey to the Muria mountains in Central Java tested their endurance. The rocky uphill paths, dense forests, and increasingly cold air pushed their physical limits. Yet Arya felt motivated by the lessons he had learned so far. He knew that every step toward the next Wali Songo would offer invaluable wisdom.
Sunan Muria was renowned for his humility and his teachings of Islam to villagers in remote areas. Arya was curious about how Sunan Muria's approach could contribute to his mission of maintaining balance across the archipelago.
The Ascent to the Mountain Village
After days of climbing, Arya arrived at a small village on the slopes of Mount Muria. The village was simple yet full of life. The villagers worked hard on their rocky farmland, cultivating the rugged earth.
"This place is peaceful, but I can feel the struggles within it," Arya said, observing the villagers.
"Indeed," Barong replied. "Sunan Muria teaches that perseverance is the key to success, even amidst hardship."
Vassago pointed to an elderly man breaking stones at the roadside. "Look at him. A simple act, but full of meaning. He doesn't give up despite life's challenges."
Arya smiled, realizing this journey was not only about faith but also about resilience in facing life's trials.
Meeting Sunan Muria
Arya finally met Sunan Muria in a small wooden prayer house at the village's peak. Sunan Muria was a man with a commanding presence, but his eyes radiated kindness. He was speaking to a group of villagers about the importance of gratitude and hard work.
"Welcome, Arya," Sunan Muria greeted him with a smile. "I know why you've come. You wish to learn about an unseen power, perseverance and sincerity."
Arya bowed respectfully. "Sunan, I believe this lesson is vital for my journey. I want to understand how perseverance can help maintain the balance of the archipelago."
Lessons from the Rocky Fields
Sunan Muria took Arya to a rocky field where the villagers cultivated crops. The field seemed impossible to farm, yet rows of thriving green plants grew among the stones.
"The villagers here don't have fertile land, but they don't give up," Sunan Muria explained. "They've learned to adapt, work hard, and be grateful for what they have."
Arya joined the villagers in digging holes between the rocks to plant seeds. The work was exhausting, but Arya began to understand that perseverance meant continuing to try even when the results were not immediately visible.
"This is like my journey," Arya said. "I don't know if my efforts will succeed, but I must keep moving forward."
"Exactly, Arya," Sunan Muria replied. "When you work with perseverance and sincere intentions, the results will come in due time."
The Tale of Tears on the Mountain
That evening, Sunan Muria shared a story with Arya and the villagers. It was about a young man who climbed Mount Muria during a drought to find water. Despite everyone telling him his efforts were futile, the young man kept digging through the rocky ground until he discovered an everlasting spring.
"This story is about faith and tireless effort," Sunan Muria said. "Life often feels like climbing a rocky mountain. You will grow weary, but if you keep going, you will find the spring at the summit."
Arya felt inspired. He realized his quest to protect the seals of the archipelago was a long journey requiring perseverance, even when the results weren't immediately clear.
Arya's Trial
On his final day in the village, Sunan Muria gave Arya a trial. He asked him to move a large rock blocking the flow of water to the villagers' fields. The rock was too heavy for one person, but Sunan Muria urged Arya not to give up.
Arya tried using his strength to shift the rock, but it wouldn't budge. Frustrated, he paused, and Sunan Muria reminded him, "When you feel weary, remember that the greatest strength is the will to keep trying."
Finally, Arya sought help from the villagers. Together, they gradually moved the rock, restoring the water's flow to the fields. Watching the water cascade down, Arya learned a crucial lesson: perseverance also means knowing when to ask for help and working together.
A Gift for Arya
Sunan Muria presented Arya with a wooden staff engraved with simple patterns. "This staff symbolizes resilience and support," he said. "Let it remind you that the greatest strength lies in the ability to keep moving forward, even in the face of difficulty."
Arya accepted the staff with deep gratitude. He felt that Sunan Muria's lessons would serve as a vital foundation for his mission.
Continuing the Journey
With renewed determination, Arya, Barong, and Vassago resumed their journey. Their next destination was Kudus, where Sunan Kudus was known for his teachings on tolerance and respect for diversity.
Arya felt that each lesson he gained from the Wali Songo brought him closer to understanding the true balance of the archipelago.
(To be continued...)