Melawan Lupa - Jejak Kejayaan Hindu Di Tanah Jawa

Summary

Candi Prambanan, a grand Hindu temple complex in Central Java, Indonesia, was built in the 9th century during the Mataram Kuno Kingdom. Dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, the site reflects the kingdom’s religious and cultural prosperity. The temple complex, known for its stunning carvings depicting the Ramayana and Krishna legends, suffered damage due to natural disasters and the shifting capital of the kingdom. Rediscovered in the 18th century, Prambanan was later restored and now stands as a testament to Indonesia's rich cultural and religious heritage, symbolizing religious tolerance and architectural brilliance.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hindu civilization flourished in the Indonesian archipelago starting from the 5th century CE, with significant developments in the 4th century CE.
• 😀 The ancient Mataram Kingdom in Central Java reached its peak during the 9th century, becoming a major center of Hindu civilization in Southeast Asia.
• 😀 Prambanan Temple, built in the 9th century during the reign of the Mataram Kingdom, is a monumental symbol of Hindu religious devotion, dedicated to the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva).
• 😀 Prambanan Temple's complex consists of several shrines, including the main temples of Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, as well as companion shrines like Nandi and Garuda.
• 😀 Despite its grandeur, Prambanan was abandoned after the kingdom's decline, exacerbated by natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
• 😀 The discovery of Prambanan's ruins in 1733 by C. Alones led to increased attention from the Dutch, though extensive restoration only began in 1918.
• 😀 The complex's reliefs, such as those depicting the Ramayana and Krishna’s adventures, serve as rich cultural narratives rooted in Hindu mythology.
• 😀 Although no definitive evidence exists, local myths suggest Prambanan’s construction is tied to a romantic conflict between Bandung Bondowoso and Roro Jonggrang.
• 😀 Archaeological studies indicate that the Mataram Kingdom shifted its power center to East Java in the 10th century, contributing to Prambanan’s neglect.
• 😀 Evidence of other settlements and artifacts near Prambanan, such as gold crowns and bowls, suggests that the area was home to an advanced society, potentially linked to the Mataram Kingdom's peak.

Q & A

What is the significance of the 4th century CE in the context of Hindu civilization in Nusantara?

The 4th century CE marks a period of rapid development of Hindu religion and civilization in the Nusantara region, with several Hindu kingdoms emerging during the 5th century CE.

Which kingdom in Central Java reached its peak in the 9th century and contributed significantly to the spread of Hindu culture?

The Ancient Mataram Kingdom in Central Java reached its peak in the 9th century, making it one of the largest centers of Hindu civilization in Southeast Asia.

What is the role of Prambanan Temple in the context of Hindu culture in Java?

Prambanan Temple, built in the 9th century, is a monumental Hindu temple dedicated to the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva), symbolizing the greatness of Hindu culture in Central Java during the Mataram Kingdom's peak.

Who was responsible for commissioning the construction of Prambanan Temple?

Prambanan Temple was commissioned by the rulers of the Sanjaya Dynasty of the Ancient Mataram Kingdom, specifically under the reign of Rakai Pikatan.

How does the structure of Prambanan Temple reflect the Hindu faith?

Prambanan Temple's layout features three main temples dedicated to the three primary Hindu gods—Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma—as well as several other shrines, demonstrating the importance of the Trimurti in Hinduism.

What major events led to the decline and abandonment of Prambanan Temple in the 10th century?

Prambanan Temple was abandoned due to several factors, including the shifting of the Mataram Kingdom's capital to East Java, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes, which caused significant damage to the temple complex.

How was Prambanan Temple rediscovered, and what condition was it in when found?

Prambanan Temple was rediscovered in 1733 by the Dutch, buried under soil and vegetation. It was in a ruined state, with many parts of the structure damaged or missing.

What archaeological evidence supports the idea that Hindu-Buddhist coexistence was a characteristic feature of the region?

The proximity of Prambanan Temple to other Buddhist temples like Sewu and Plaosan supports the idea that Hinduism and Buddhism coexisted peacefully in the region, as reflected in the architectural and religious harmony.

What is the significance of the Siwagrha inscription in the context of Prambanan Temple?

The Siwagrha inscription, dated 856 CE, marks the official inauguration of Prambanan Temple and provides key details about the temple’s construction and the surrounding environment during its time.

What evidence is there that suggests Prambanan's role as a sacred site for Hindu rituals?

The presence of intricate reliefs, such as the Krishna and Ramayana narratives on the temple walls, suggests that Prambanan was a significant site for religious rituals, particularly those honoring the Hindu deities and showcasing Hindu epic stories.