ARCHI | Bertualang ke Muaro Jambi

Summary

Muaro Jambi, located in Jambi, Sumatra, is an ancient Buddhist temple complex that dates back to the 7th century. The site, covering nearly 4,000 hectares, holds significant archaeological remains, including 82 ancient structures, water management systems, and various artifacts. It was an important center for Buddhist learning and pilgrimage, with a rich cultural legacy tied to the Srivijaya Empire and the Malay Kingdom. Notably, the site served as a monastic school, with Chinese monk It-Sing visiting in 672 AD. Muaro Jambi stands as a testament to Southeast Asia’s historical religious tolerance and cultural heritage.

Takeaways

• 😀 Muarojambi, located in Jambi, Sumatera, is home to the largest temple complex in Southeast Asia.
• 😀 The Muarojambi Temple Complex covers 3,981 hectares and stretches along both sides of the Batanghari River.
• 😀 The complex contains at least 82 ancient ruins, including temples and structures, dating back to the Srivijaya Kingdom.
• 😀 Muarojambi was first discovered in 1827 by British naval officer SJ Croft, who reported seeing ruins in the tropical forest.
• 😀 Archaeological research in the 20th century revealed that Muarojambi was a significant Buddhist center and educational hub.
• 😀 The site features simple, brick-built temples with minimal decoration, except for carvings of Makara on some steps.
• 😀 Muarojambi also contains a sophisticated water system with artificial canals leading into the Batanghari River.
• 😀 Chinese Buddhist monk I-Tsing visited Muarojambi in 672 AD to study Sanskrit, highlighting the site’s international significance.
• 😀 Artefacts discovered at Muarojambi include gold leaf inscriptions, ceramics, Chinese inscriptions, and ancient coins.
• 😀 Muarojambi’s historical role as a Buddhist vihara and center for religious education underscores its importance in promoting religious tolerance.

Q & A

What is the historical significance of Jambi mentioned in the script?

Jambi has been historically significant as it has been mentioned in Chinese records as 'Cantik' or 'Weekend.' The region has a rich archaeological heritage, indicating a large civilization dating back centuries.

What is the Muarojambi Temple Complex and why is it important?

The Muarojambi Temple Complex is a vast archaeological site in Jambi, Sumatra, consisting of numerous ancient temple ruins. It is important because it serves as evidence of a large Buddhist civilization and is the largest temple complex in Southeast Asia.

How large is the Muarojambi Temple Complex?

The Muarojambi Temple Complex spans an area of 3,981 hectares, stretching from the west to the east along the northern and southern banks of the Batanghari River.

Who first reported the Muarojambi ruins and when?

The Muarojambi ruins were first reported by SJ Croft, a British naval officer, in 1827. He observed the ancient ruins and found a Buddha statue among the dense tropical forest.

What were some of the major archaeological findings in Muarojambi?

Archaeological findings in Muarojambi include Buddhist statues, ancient inscriptions, and various artifacts such as gold plates, bronze gongs, and coins. These findings suggest that the site was a significant Buddhist center and a place of pilgrimage.

What does the Muarojambi Temple Complex suggest about the Buddhist influence in Southeast Asia?

The Muarojambi Temple Complex suggests that Southeast Asia had a strong Buddhist influence, particularly the Vajrayana school of Buddhism. The presence of a large wihara (monastery) and scholarly activities at the site highlight its role as an important Buddhist educational center.

Which major kingdoms influenced the development of the Muarojambi Temple Complex?

The Muarojambi Temple Complex was influenced by the Sriwijaya Kingdom, and later, the Malay Kingdom. It likely functioned as a Buddhist center during both of these periods.

What is the significance of the archaeological findings in relation to the local community?

The archaeological findings, including ceramic pieces, iron fragments, and gold coins, suggest that the area around the temples was once a bustling settlement. These findings likely indicate that the Muarojambi complex was not only a religious site but also a center for commerce and culture.

What evidence indicates the presence of a Buddhist school or monastery at Muarojambi?

Evidence such as inscriptions, gold plates, and Chinese chronicle writings point to Muarojambi being a place where Buddhist monks, including the Chinese monk I-Tsing, studied and practiced. I-Tsing visited the area in 672 AD to learn Sanskrit.

What does the Muarojambi Temple Complex reveal about religious tolerance in ancient times?

The Muarojambi Temple Complex highlights the historical practice of religious tolerance. The site was not only a Buddhist temple but also a place where people from different regions came to learn and worship, indicating an openness to diverse cultural and religious influences.