Assalamualaikum brothers and sisters in Islam,
Alhamdulillah, we have received tremendous response since our posting on Sunday, January
18th. For those who are interested, here are the details regarding this art.
Thank you for your interest in Silat Seni Gayong. Silat Seni Gayong was founded by Dato
Meor Abdul Rahman who came from a family of celebrated Muslim Bugis warriors. Although
Seni Gayong was officially founded in 1963, the origin of this art traces itself back to
the early 15th century. For centuries, in Malaysia, silat was taught exclusively to the
Muslim Malays. The exponents of this art regard this system as a wholly combative art that
is neither recreational nor sportive. The combative nature of Silat Seni Gayong is evinced
in the word ‘Gayong’ which means using any elements in the surrounding area to
deflect an oncoming attack. The word ‘Silat’ implies the application of
systematic fighting techniques that stems from the lifestyle of the Muslim Malay
people.
Known as a fierce Muslim art of war in the Malay archipelago, in the 15th century, Silat
was used extensively to keep treason and colonialism at bay. The ‘pesilat’ or
one who practices silat begins and ends his practice by submitting to Allah
Subhanawata’ala. He worships and fears none but Allah The Most Glorious One. Although
the techniques used in Silat can be described as brutal and lethal, the
‘pesilat’ constantly prays to Allah Ta’ala to never accord him the
opportunity to apply his knowledge. The ‘pesilat’ is never the aggressor but
merely a defender. The ‘pesilat’ does not believe in violence and would never be
the first to retaliate. As the ‘pesilat’ matures, his exercises are no longer
physical but more spiritual and metaphysical. He begins to shy away from the rigors of
physical movements but relegate most of his time to the worship of Allah Ta’ala.
We hope that Muslim brothers and sisters and the children of Islam will take advantage of
this art. Silat Seni Gayong does not and will never condone or associate itself with any
form of terrorism and would allow his own life to be taken in defence of an innocent life.
It’s an art that focuses in the deen of Islam and holds on to the rope of Allah
Subhanahuwata’ala.
Classes for silat are now being held in New York, New Jersey and Illinois. Silat Seni
Gayong also conduct seminars and workshops upon invitation. In March of 1998, Silat Seni
Gayong will be launching an Instructor’s course. Application for this course is now
open. For those who cannot attend these classes, an extensive video correspondence course
is also available. For more information, please call Sulaiman Sharif at 609-423-4806, fax
us at 609-423-4807, e-mail us at taqwa@taqwa.com or
visit us at our website:
http://www.silat.org
Wassalam
Sulaiman Sharif
SSGA
