Sejarah Pura Goa Gajah.

Summary

Pura Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave Temple, is a historic site located in Bali, Indonesia, with a deep connection to both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Discovered in 1923, the temple is known for its ancient carvings, statues, and sacred spring. The site features a blend of architectural styles and religious influences, showcasing a unique history. It is believed that the temple served as a retreat for Hindu and Buddhist priests. Pura Goa Gajah's significance is highlighted through archaeological findings, including statues of Ganesha and other ancient relics, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism in Bali.

Takeaways

• 😀 Goa Gajah Temple is located on a cliff on the southern side of the main road connecting Desa Bedulu and Blahbatuh, Gianyar, approximately 26 km from Denpasar.
• 😀 The discovery of Goa Gajah started in 1923 when a Dutch official found the Ganesha and Hariti statues, followed by further investigations in 1925 by Dr. WF. Superhigh.
• 😀 Archaeological research by the Indonesian Purbakala Office in 1954-1979 revealed ancient relics, including six statues of women with water spouts on their chests, believed to purify the aura of visitors.
• 😀 Goa Gajah was used by Hindu priests and yogis in ancient times, as evidenced by its relics and its positioning as a spiritual site.
• 😀 The name 'Goa Gajah' was coined by Dutch officials in 1925. Locals, however, have referred to the temple by other names like 'Pura Goa Lawah.'
• 😀 Historical texts like the Lontar Negarakertagama mention Goa Gajah, linking it to the nearby village of Bedulu and its significance in ancient Bali.
• 😀 Goa Gajah Temple’s significance is highlighted in ancient inscriptions, such as the Prasasti Raja Dharmawangsa Wardhana (1022 AD), referencing the sacredness of the location.
• 😀 The temple site has two main complexes: a petirtaan (bathing area) and a Buddha statue complex, with the petirtaan being a functional monument with a large, segmented pool.
• 😀 The petirtaan has three chambers, separated by low walls, and features statues with water spouts, including figures of men and women, some of which are related to seven sacred rivers in Hindu belief.
• 😀 The Buddhist influence is visible in the Buddha statue complex located 100 meters south of the petirtaan, with fragments of a Buddha temple and statues in the meditative posture (dyanamudra).

Q & A

What is the location of Goa Gajah Temple?

Goa Gajah Temple is located on a cliff at the southern side of a main road connecting the village of Bedulu to Blahbatuh District in Gianyar Regency, approximately 26 km from the tourist route of Denpasar-Tampaksiring.

When was the discovery of Goa Gajah made, and by whom?

The discovery of Goa Gajah began in 1923 by the Dutch East Indies official, LC Hitting, who found the statues of Ganesha and Hariti, which were then reported to the Dutch colonial government.

What significant findings were made during the archaeological excavations of Goa Gajah?

Excavations between 1954 and 1979 uncovered an ancient bathing site with six statues of women with water spouts on their chests, believed to provide purification vibrations for visitors.

Why is the name 'Goa Gajah' used for the temple, and what is its origin?

'Goa Gajah' was first used in 1925 by the Dutch, based on reports that referenced the temple's significance. The name is derived from local terminology and is linked to the ancient inscriptions and the surrounding village of Bedulu.

What does the term 'Anta Kun Cara Pada' mean in relation to Goa Gajah?

'Anta Kun Cara Pada' is an ancient term found in inscriptions from 1757, believed to refer to Goa Gajah, with 'kunjara' meaning 'elephant' and associated with sacred sites.

What are the main components of the Goa Gajah archaeological site?

The Goa Gajah site is divided into two main complexes: the bathing complex (petirtaan) and the Buddha statue complex. The bathing complex includes a large pool and several statues, while the Buddha complex contains statues and remnants of a Buddhist temple.

What is the significance of the seven water spouts found at Goa Gajah?

The seven water spouts at Goa Gajah are believed to be linked to the sacred rivers mentioned in Hindu scriptures, symbolizing purity and sanctity.

What is the role of Ganesha statues in the temple complex?

Ganesha statues at Goa Gajah are significant, representing the god of wisdom and removing obstacles. These statues are positioned near water spouts and are part of the temple's religious and spiritual significance.

What influence does Buddhist architecture have at Goa Gajah?

Buddhist architectural influences are evident in the southern section of the site, where there are remnants of a Buddhist temple, statues of Buddha, and stupa fragments, indicating the coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist practices in ancient Bali.

What does the discovery of Buddhist and Hindu elements at Goa Gajah indicate about religious practices in Bali?

The coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist elements at Goa Gajah suggests that both religious communities lived harmoniously in ancient Bali, integrating their practices at shared sacred sites.