THE CONCEPT OF AQIDAH EDUCATION IN THE HADITH OF THE PROPHET ﷺ TO IBN ABBAS (Analysis of Content Based on H.R. At-Tirmidzi No. 2516)

Aqidah education is the primary foundation in forming the character of "insan kamil" (the perfect human); however, in practice, it is often overlooked in favor of purely cognitive achievements. This study aims to analyze in depth the meaning, values of aqidah education, and its relevance to the contemporary Islamic educational context based on the hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to Ibn Abbas رضي الله عنه (H.R. At-Tirmidzi No. 2516). This research employs a qualitative library research approach with a content analysis method. Primary data are sourced from the hadith text and its commentaries (syarah), while secondary data are obtained from relevant Islamic education literature. The results indicate that this hadith contains fundamental aqidah messages, including: (1) Tawheed Education, specifically maintaining the rights of Allah through obedience and the purification of worship; (2) Tawakkal (Reliance) Education, by entrusting all affairs solely to Allah; and (3) Faith in Qadha and Qadar (Divine Decree) through belief in the finality of the divine pen. The relevance of these values in modern education is crucial as a spiritual buffer amidst the currents of secularism and globalization. Furthermore, the Prophet’s ﷺ method of delivery—which was dialogic, personal, and tailored to Ibn Abbas's developmental stage (under 13 years old)—provides an authentic pedagogical model for educators and parents. This study concludes that the internalization of these values is capable of forming a Muslim generation that is not only intellectually bright but also possesses robust mental resilience and spiritual maturity to face contemporary challenges.