The Implementation of Aqidah and Moral Education in Developing Students’ Spiritual Values at MAN 4 East Aceh

aqidah–akhlaq education, implementation, spirituality, students, madrasah.

Abstract

This study aims to describe and analyze the implementation of aqidah–akhlaq education in fostering students’ spiritual values at MAN 4 Aceh Timur. The study employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing in a systematic manner. The findings reveal that the implementation of aqidah–akhlaq education is carried out through three main strategies: habituation of daily religious practices such as congregational prayers and Qur’an recitation, teachers’ role modeling in demonstrating religious attitudes, and the integration of spiritual values into classroom instruction. Supporting factors include a conducive and religious school environment, structured religious programs, and active teacher involvement in character development. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors consist of limited facilities and infrastructure, diverse student backgrounds, and external environmental influences outside the school. This study concludes that aqidah–akhlaq education plays a strategic role in strengthening students’ spiritual dimensions, particularly in enhancing religious awareness, discipline in worship, and the formation of Islamic moral character. The success of this educational implementation is not solely measured by cognitive outcomes but also by the degree of internalization of spiritual values in students’ daily lives.