Borobudur: Di Bangun Oleh Siapa? - Sejarah Candi Terbesar di Indonesia

Summary

Borobudur Temple, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is a magnificent Buddhist monument with rich cultural and historical significance. Built in the 8th century, it features intricate reliefs, Buddha statues, and symbolizes Buddhist cosmology. The temple’s design incorporates both local and Indian elements, showcasing a fusion of ancestral worship and Buddhist teachings. After centuries of abandonment, Borobudur was rediscovered and restored, becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite mysteries surrounding its origins and purpose, it remains a symbol of Indonesia's cultural pride and a key religious site, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Takeaways

• 😀 Borobudur Temple, located in Magelang, Central Java, is an iconic symbol of Indonesia's cultural heritage and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.
• 😀 Since its rediscovery in 1814, Borobudur has undergone extensive restoration efforts and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• 😀 The temple is the largest in Indonesia, featuring six square terraces and three circular courtyards, decorated with over 2,600 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.
• 😀 Borobudur's Buddhist reliefs are the most complete and largest collection in the world, with intricate depictions of Buddhist teachings and life.
• 😀 The temple’s design represents Buddhist cosmology, with its terraces symbolizing various realms of existence and the journey toward enlightenment.
• 😀 Borobudur was constructed using 55,000 cubic meters of andesite stone, employing sophisticated interlocking techniques without cement.
• 😀 The temple’s drainage system is highly effective, with 100 kala and makara fountains designed to prevent waterlogging in the region's high rainfall.
• 😀 The origins of Borobudur’s name remain unclear, with various theories ranging from local village names to Sanskrit meanings related to mountains or terraces.
• 😀 Borobudur was abandoned in the 10th century, forgotten for centuries, and was rediscovered in the 19th century, leading to major restoration efforts.
• 😀 Borobudur is now a major tourist attraction, although issues such as tourist management and local protests have impacted the visitor experience.
• 😀 The temple’s preservation and continued restoration efforts, supported by UNESCO, highlight its significance as a cultural and religious icon both in Indonesia and globally.

Q & A

What is Borobudur Temple known for?

Borobudur Temple is known for being the largest Buddhist temple in Indonesia and a symbol of Indonesia's cultural heritage. It is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and also serves as a popular tourist destination.

What is the significance of the Trisuci Waisak celebration at Borobudur?

The Trisuci Waisak celebration at Borobudur is an important annual event for Buddhists. It commemorates the birth, death, and enlightenment of Buddha, attracting Buddhists from around the world to gather for this sacred celebration.

What architectural features make Borobudur unique?

Borobudur is unique for its six square terraces surrounded by three circular courtyards, decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. It also features 72 perforated stupas with Buddha statues in a lotus position symbolizing the turning of the wheel of dharma.

What does the layout of Borobudur represent in Buddhist cosmology?

The layout of Borobudur represents Buddhist cosmology through its 10 courtyards, symbolizing the spiritual journey towards enlightenment. The terraces depict various realms in Buddhist teachings, including the world of desires, the world free from lust but still bound by form, and the formless existence.

How was Borobudur constructed?

Borobudur was built from approximately 55,000 cubic meters of andesite stone, cut and arranged without cement using sophisticated interlocking techniques. The temple’s design also includes a well-engineered drainage system to prevent waterlogging in areas with high rainfall.

What is the historical mystery behind the name 'Borobudur'?

The origin of the name 'Borobudur' is unclear. Some theories suggest it derives from the local village name 'Boro' or from Javanese words meaning 'temple complex' or 'mountain.' There are also folk theories about its pronunciation evolving from the word 'Buddha.'

What role did Borobudur play during the Majapahit era?

During the Majapahit era, Borobudur was mentioned in local manuscripts, but it was largely forgotten and even considered a haunted monument. It became part of local myths and was believed to bring misfortune to those who visited it.

What challenges did Borobudur face after its rediscovery?

After Borobudur was rediscovered in the 19th century, it faced issues such as theft of its Buddha statues and damage due to volcanic eruptions. In the 20th century, it underwent several restoration efforts, including major work supported by UNESCO to restore its structure and resolve drainage issues.

How did Borobudur become a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Borobudur was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 after extensive restoration efforts from 1975 to 1982, which helped preserve its cultural and historical value. It was recognized for its exceptional artistic and architectural significance.

What impact has tourism had on the Borobudur area?

Tourism at Borobudur has grown rapidly, but it has led to some local conflicts over tourism management and economic interests. Issues such as pushy hawkers and the maze of souvenir markets have disrupted the experience for visitors, though it has also contributed to the local economy.