By: Samsul Nizar
Professor of STAIN Bengkalis
Distinction exists between the political space and the siyasah space when discussing the former. From a linguistic standpoint, politics (Greek: polis or country) refers to a community-based endeavor that is established, sustained, and utilized to enforce preexisting regulations. However, during the execution phase, political space frequently places emphasis on strategies that guarantee triumph (for a restricted subset of groups) while neglecting or disappointing other groups. Numerous words are naturally associated with the term “politics,” such as “politics of splitting bamboo,” “politics of fighting against each other,” “politics of retribution,” and “ethical politics,” among others.
In contrast, siyasah translates linguistically as “to organize, manage, rule, lead, and formulate policy.” A siyasah, on the other hand, refers in a general sense to an endeavor undertaken by an individual, a nation, or a collective with the intention of transforming a negative circumstance into one that is steadily improving. Siyasa focuses primarily on approaches (strategies) to meet shared objectives. All aspects are meticulously examined in order to identify potential consequences. Siyasah strives to accomplish evolutionary objectives that benefit humanity by mitigating potential negative consequences. Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyah defined siyasa as “all actions that benefit humanity and protect it from harm” for this reason.
While the aforementioned terms may appear to share theoretical similarities at first sight, the practical application of politics frequently involves pragmatic considerations. Harold Lasswell posits in his book Power and Society that power emerges as the result of political conflict. Conversely, siyasah primarily pertains to a strategic approach aimed at resolving communal issues with the intended consequence of attaining collective well-being.
In addition to the distinctions and parallels delineated above, the author discerns additional words that can be appended to the term “politics” when it is combined with a number of supplementary words: “latto-latto politics”. Despite the use of unfamiliar terms, valuable lessons are conveyed.
Latto-latto, a traditional pastime (game), was once popular but subsequently vanished as if it were engulfed by the earth. Latto-latto is a form of game in which two plastic balls with a finger ring in the centre are connected by a string and have a hard, solid mass and a smooth surface, respectively. This is a dexterity game in which physical abilities are required. Played by swinging (either rapidly or slowly) in order to cause two balls to collide. The collision will generate a discernible sound and motion that serve as its own form of attraction. The distinctive sound generated induces a sense of addiction in the participant. Originally known as Clacker Ball Toys, this pastime was popular in the United States from the late 1960s to the 1970s. This pastime experienced a resurgence in Indonesia during the mid-2022s. Despite being a straightforward traditional game, it demands considerable talent and diligent practice. The game of latto-latto imparts a number of instructive teachings that are applicable to the domain of human politics across history, such as:
First, they engage in a collision, generating a sound that captivates and astonishes both participants and onlookers as they witness the struggle between the opposing sides of the ball. Moreover, if the colour of the two poles of the latto-latto “canicas” induces drowsiness in the eyes. The dispute that transpired was intentionally instigated with the intention of attracting attention and fostering an addiction to conflict. In fact, upon closer inspection, despite the fact that it appears that they are engaged in a literal battle and collision, they are in fact exchanging “messages.” Overall, the two of them appear discordant so as to provoke amusement and drama among onlookers. However, the disharmony that ensues serves to divert attention away from the lattos breaking and causing injuries to both the participants and the spectators. This is the result of delight and laughter generated by the “latto-latto feud” and the ensuing noises it generates. Conversely, notwithstanding the apparent collision between the two poles, caution must be exercised lest the resultant reflection cause damage to the pole’s exterior. Consequently, vigilance and awareness of existing hazards diminish. The Prophet emphasized this in his words: “Also, refrain from excessive laughter. “Laughter can, in fact, be fatal to the heart” (HR. Tirmizi).
Second, the skill of the players is crucial to the success of latto-latto. As the hand’s proficiency in performing increases, so does the melodic quality of the sound produced. When a latto-latto performs without abilities, they inflict injury upon themselves and others. The auditory output will not consist of latto-latto, but rather cries of agony that will resonate. Significant numbers of hands are, in fact, abrased by the latto-latto rope.
Undoubtedly, the political actors on both sides of the ball (gundu) who engage in conflict derive advantages that augment their market value and popularity. Because the sound is not produced by the rope or fingers that create the lattos sound, but rather by the two poles themselves. In the interim, those whose fingertips are mere “cheers” do not comprehend the concept of impact. Without realizing it, he followed the direction of the two poles while suffering a finger injury during the game. Amid thunderous acclaim, the promise of the latto-latto rhythm astonished all in attendance. In the latto-latto idiom, Allah reminds us of unfulfilled commitments (wa’dun) through His words: “And Satan said when the matter (reckoning) had been resolved, Verily Allah has promised you a true promise, and I too have promised you but I broke it. No I have power over you, but (only) I call you and you obey my call, therefore do not revile me, but revile yourself. I cannot help you, and you cannot help me. Indeed, I do not justify your actions in associating partners with me (with Allah) from long ago. Indeed, the unjust will receive a painful torment.” (QS. Ibrahim: 22).
Everything from latto-latto political maneuvers that cause individuals to lose track of time and safety. Everything is performed in order to stage a production and accomplish the intended purpose. Indeed, Allah has reiterated this perspective in His teachings: “Those who hold the faith contend in the service of Allah, while those who do not believe contend in the service of Taghut.” “Therefore, oppose those who support Satan, for Satan’s deceit is in fact feeble” (QS an-Nisa’: 76).
Even though it is evident that God provides rational beings with options, the decisions they frequently make are frequently the exact opposite. Engage in dialogue, assist one another in rectifying errors, and endeavor to discredit the truth. Do not proclaim your community to be the most virtuous and pious by focusing solely on the positive aspects. It is not sufficient to label an opponent or community as abhorrent and erroneous based solely on their negative attributes. Observe how the moon and sun illuminate one another on the opposite side of the planet. An earth illuminated solely by the sun or moon would possess both a light and dark aspect. Utilize both, however, and it will become evident that His light illuminates the entirety of the earth.
Third, opposing forces that eventually converge and unite. The meeting at the moment of the collision was exceedingly brief. Conversely, in an absence of conflicts, the two latto-latto poles will converge in close proximity and harmoniously. This occurs when the objective of creating an awe-inspiring spectacle has been fulfilled or when there are no more actors available to perform it. It was as if nothing had transpired between the two Latto-Latto firearms; all was silence. In fact, numerous individuals were “scratched and injured” while playing latto-latto. Following the conclusion of the game, the two poles are mute and coexist harmoniously while embracing one another. The sole remnants of the audience’s injury caused by the lattos’ discharge are scars and suffering.
Fourth, latto-latto requires rigorous practice and specialized abilities. Inexperienced players may inadvertently expose themselves and others to peril when engaging in the latto-latto game. This was emphasized by Rasulullah SAW in his remark, “One should not contemplate the end of the world if matters are not delegated to experts” (HR. Bukhari).
Therefore, latto-latto must be performed by intelligent, civilized professionals. One will acquire the aesthetic and enjoyable appearance of engaging in latto-latto play in this manner. Similarly, when it comes to political or other professional decisions, it is essential that those who are well-informed, have undergone an evolutionary process, are well-trained, courteous, and civilized do so. Political and professional decisions devoid of knowledge and artistic sensibility, executed in a revolutionary manner (carbitan), will result in the loss of taste and maturity in politics, a lack of sophistication in the political approach, and an absence of civilization in the political form. The degree of political maturity, approach, and form are contingent upon the individual’s quality, irrespective of factors such as time, strata, scientific degree, or age. Pupils exhibit varying degrees of maturation in accordance with their unique personal attributes.
Fifth, Latto-latto is a momentarily thriving game. Periodically, it experiences a surge followed by a decline. Thus, the allure of latto-latto politics is accompanied by a multitude of “flowers”; however, once the heat wind strikes and precipitation falls, everything withers, blooms, and frequently withers without bearing fruit.
Despite the seasonal nature of the latto-latto game, a significant number of participants are left with injuries. Despite the presence of joyful mirth, the scars remain irremovable. Despite the patient’s eventual forgetfulness of the injuries, the scars will serve as an enduring historical record. Strangely, individuals eventually resume playing latto-latto despite its subsequent abandonment, oblivious to the hazards endured by those who have harmed themselves and one another. Indeed, Allah has explicitly reminded us of this through His words: “Therefore, We grant friendship to certain wrongdoers on account of their efforts” (QS al-An’am: 129).
Once, Abu as-Sheikh from Manshur bin Abi al-Aswad inquired of al-A’masy the significance of the aforementioned verse. According to him, I overheard them say, “If humanity is corrupt, then corrupt individuals will lead them”. Those who are good will undoubtedly be endowed with authority by Allah. “If they are malevolent, Allah will certainly endow malevolent individuals among them with power.” According to the proverb, one’s actions serve as a guide. Your circumstance mirrors the state of affairs of your leader. A truly profound message conveyed through a series of words in response to the events that have transpired on our planet throughout human history.
Thus, human political practice can at times resemble a game of latto-latto. His voice shattered the silence with its loose and boisterous volume, but he was restrained by the reins. Their objectives may appear to be in opposition, but they are working toward a common purpose. Eventually, despite their initial opposition and physical contact, they come together to support and embrace one another. Notwithstanding the conflict that arose between up and down, they were ultimately reconciled through a shared objective. Despite appearing unrestricted, akin to a projectile being discharged from a bow, its motion is in fact constrained by the length of the string that fastens it (interesting). Depending on the player’s talent, the movements are exquisite while the sound is powerful and rhythmic. In the absence of skilful participants, the game disintegrates. A weak rope that ruptures would result in a tumultuous collision between the two poles, presenting a hazard to individuals who approach or interfere with the structure. Once the objective of delivering a vocal performance of considerable volume has been accomplished, the initial animosity that was apparent will transform into a harmonious and reciprocal relationship by the conclusion of the exhibition. Conversely, notwithstanding the appearance of harmony and unity, the two polar poles will inevitably collide once more when the time comes. Therefore, it is imperative that every member of the audience exercise discernment in order to preserve cohesion and avoid being influenced by sentiments that lead to discord. Due to the fact that “latto-latto politics” conveys the notion that human characteristics can be transformed with relative ease. Equally as simple to unite as it is to combat, and vice versa. Such is the insight that the latto-latto political performance has gained. Despite appearing peculiar, this is precisely how the phenomenon develops. Notwithstanding the ongoing discussions, maintaining harmony within the nation remains the primary pillar. As an example of a highly civilized nation, conduct yourself in an intelligent and civilized manner. Undoubtedly, all entities possess a function and intention, serving as learn.
Allah’s verses appear so real that they merit contemplation by rational beings (ulul albab), bestow truth and significance upon those with spotless hearts (qalbun salim), and serve as sources of illumination and guidance for those who possess faith (addin hanif). Humans frequently forget and deny the fact that everything that exists (the universe) is a manifestation of His affection for servants.
Wa Allahua’lam bi al-Shawwab.
Translated by Riska Saputra, S.Pd., M.Sc
Undergraduate alumni from the English Education Study Program at STAIN Bengkalis.
Master alumni from the Graduate Institute of Network Learning Technology at National Central University, Taiwan.
