The Mysterious "Cross" Made by Dutch on Ngetos Temple, Dedicated to Majapahit Greatest King

Summary

The video explores Ngetos Temple in East Java, Indonesia, revealing its rich history and mysterious aspects. The temple, built in the Majapahit era, has suffered severe damage over time, leading to speculations about its purpose, including whether it was dedicated to King Hayam Wuruk. The Dutch restoration of the temple in the early 20th century added a cross-like symbol, which is later debunked as a traditional ornament. The video delves into various historical theories surrounding the temple, its architectural significance, and the connection to Mount Wilis, while emphasizing the importance of preserving this cultural heritage.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Ngetos Temple in East Java, Indonesia, was initially built during the Majapahit era and is associated with historical figures like King Hayam Wuruk.
• 😀 The Dutch restored Ngetos Temple in the early 20th century, adding a cross-like symbol, which is actually a common Javanese ornament known as tapak dara.
• 😀 Ngetos Temple, made from red bricks, is in a state of disrepair with missing roof sections, but still showcases its original structure and significance.
• 😀 The temple was originally built in honor of Lord Shiva, with niches for various deities such as Mahakala, Nandi, Durga, and Ganesha.
• 😀 Kirtimukha, a guardian figure with a frightening face, adorns several niches at Ngetos Temple, representing a protection against evil.
• 😀 Despite the Dutch restoration, the tapak dara ornament, not a cross, remains as part of the temple's traditional decoration, also seen in other East Javanese temples.
• 😀 Ngetos Temple is believed to have been a site of sacred significance, possibly linked to the veneration of King Hayam Wuruk or as a religious institution for Shiva followers.
• 😀 The location of Ngetos Temple on the northern slopes of Mount Wilis may relate to ancient beliefs about the sacredness of the mountain and its connection to Shiva worship.
• 😀 The historical purpose of Ngetos Temple remains unclear, with some allegations suggesting it could be a sacred building in the Sima region or a site dedicated to Shiva's followers.
• 😀 The preservation of Ngetos Temple by local families like the Effendy family emphasizes the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage, despite the temple’s gradual destruction over time.

Q & A

What is the significance of Ngetos Temple in East Java?

Ngetos Temple, located in Nganjuk Regency, East Java, is an ancient Hindu temple that was built during the Majapahit era. It is believed to honor the greatest king of Majapahit, Hayam Wuruk, although its exact purpose is still debated by historians.

What alterations did the Dutch make to Ngetos Temple?

During the Dutch restoration of Ngetos Temple between 1914-1917, they added a cross-like ornament, which resembles a Greek or Portuguese cross. However, this ornament is actually called 'tapak dara,' a symbol commonly used in Javanese temples to repel bad luck.

Why was the Dutch addition of the cross-like symbol controversial?

The addition of the cross-like symbol by the Dutch raised questions because it seemed to distort the original design of the temple. However, it was later clarified that this was not a Christian cross but a Javanese ornamental motif used to protect against bad luck.

What is the significance of the Kirtimukha at Ngetos Temple?

The Kirtimukha is a decorative element with a fearsome face, typically seen in Hindu temples as a guardian figure. At Ngetos Temple, the Kirtimukha faces the four cardinal directions and is believed to protect the temple from danger. Only one of these guardian faces remains intact today.

What is the role of Ngetos Temple in the worship of Lord Shiva?

Ngetos Temple follows the Hindu Shiva philosophy. It likely contained statues of deities such as Mahakala, Nandiswara, Durga Mahesasuramardini, Ganesha, and Agastya, who are all important figures in Shiva worship.

What is the mystery surrounding the missing twin temple of Ngetos?

Historical reports, including those by Thomas Raffles and archaeologist NW Hoepermans, mention that Ngetos Temple originally had a twin temple called 'Tajum Temple.' However, the twin temple is believed to have disappeared over time, and its exact location remains a mystery.

Why does Ngetos Temple face west, and what does that signify?

Ngetos Temple faces west, which is typical of East Javanese temples. This orientation is part of the temple's design to represent the three realms in Hindu cosmology: the lower realm (base), middle realm (body), and upper realm (roof).

What is the connection between Ngetos Temple and Mount Wilis?

Mount Wilis, located near Ngetos Temple, holds sacred significance in local folklore and Hindu beliefs. It is thought to be a site of spiritual importance, and Ngetos Temple’s location on its northern slope may have been chosen for its connection to the mountain's sacred nature.

What are the three main allegations regarding the purpose of Ngetos Temple?

The three main allegations are: 1) Ngetos Temple was built as a veneration site for King Hayam Wuruk of Majapahit, 2) It served as a sacred building within a 'sima' region, a tax-exempt area dedicated to religious service, and 3) It was part of a spiritual tradition associated with Mount Wilis, possibly linked to the Bhairawa Tantra and Mpu Barang’s teachings.

How did the destruction and restoration of Ngetos Temple impact its current state?

Ngetos Temple has suffered significant damage over time due to weathering, vandalism, and lack of preservation. The Dutch restoration efforts in the early 20th century preserved some elements, but much of the temple's original structure is now missing, leaving only a few key features intact.