Philosophy of Traditional Learning System in Sulu Archipelago: Beyond Lifelong Learning
Dr. Benhar J. Tahil

Abstract
Traditionally, Sulu Archipelago on study covered Provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi islands in the Philippines. In 13th century, Islam arrived to these scattered Hindu influenced communities that founded advanced society, culture and learning system persisting until today despite of contemporary formal education. Hence, philosophy behind this traditional learning system was investigated. The provinces were traveled to interview criterion selected individuals and groups on why people are still practicing their old brand of learning system. It revealed that learning is beyond worldly life. “Learning from birth to death” or “crave to the grave” was short. Three stages of learning such as preworldly life, lifelong and after life were revealed. The lifelong journey is interwoven into the purpose of creation which is the ending point of their learning philosophy. Being detached from the absolute purpose of learning the world becomes chaotic and such is a manifestation of the material world.

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