THE CONCEPT AND ROLE OF THE MURSHID IN SHAPING STUDENT CHARACTER: AN ETHICAL EDUCATION PERSPECTIVE ACCORDING TO AL-GHAZALI

This article discusses the concept and function of the murshid (spiritual guide) in shaping students’ character based on the moral educational framework of Imam al-Ghazali. In light of the challenges of modern education often overly focused on academic achievement while neglecting spiritual dimensions al-Ghazali’s thought provides a significant foundation for developing a holistic moral education model grounded in spiritual values. This study adopts a conceptual and theoretical approach, employing a document analysis methodology focused on al-Ghazali’s classical work Ihya’ ‘Ulum al-Din, supported by a systematic review of contemporary studies published between 2020 and 2025. Through this methodology, key moral education themes such as tazkiyah al-nafs (spiritual purification), qudwah hasanah (exemplary conduct), and spiritual teacher-student relationships are critically examined.The findings indicate that, from al-Ghazali’s perspective, a murshid is not merely a transmitter of knowledge, but a spiritual mentor who plays a vital role in purifying the soul, nurturing ethical character through moral exemplarity, and instilling divine purpose in students. Based on these insights, the study formulates a conceptual model of moral education that integrates spirituality, teacher-student interaction, and character formation grounded in classical Islamic pedagogy. This model is presented as a theoretical contribution to strengthen a comprehensive and balanced Islamic education system intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.The study also outlines important implications for contemporary Islamic education, especially in empowering teachers as moral and spiritual mentors, embedding tazkiyah in curriculum design, and rethinking the philosophy and implementation of character education. In conclusion, al-Ghazali’s educational philosophy offers a profound and relevant foundation for building a moral education model that is rooted in tradition and responsive to contemporary challenges.