SEJARAH BAHASA NGAPAK - Ceriarts

Summary

The video delves into the origins and cultural significance of the Ngapak language, also known as the Banyumas dialect. It traces its roots back to the Kutai people from East Kalimantan, who settled in Java before the spread of Hinduism. Ngapak stands out for its straightforward and egalitarian nature, unlike formal Javanese which features multiple levels of speech depending on social status. The video highlights how Ngapak has remained a cornerstone of Banyumas' cultural identity, thriving despite external influences. It also positions Ngapak as a purer form of Javanese, unaffected by the aristocratic norms of other regions like Yogyakarta.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Ngapak language is also known as the Banyumas dialect, originating from the ancestors of the Banyumas people, who came from Kutai in East Kalimantan before the spread of Hinduism.
• 😀 According to historian Van Der Mullen, people from Kutai arrived in Java and settled in the slopes of Mount Ciremai and Mount Slamet, eventually establishing the ancient Galuh kingdom.
• 😀 Unlike standard Javanese, which has several levels of speech, Ngapak is straightforward and doesn't prioritize social status, treating nobility the same as commoners.
• 😀 The Ngapak language serves as the last bastion of Banyumas' cultural identity, preserving its traditions amidst societal changes and progress.
• 😀 The people of Banyumas have a culture that emphasizes equality, which fosters solidarity and unity within their community.
• 😀 During the era of the Islamic Mataram Sultanate, Javanese culture emphasized discipline in behavior and language, with a hierarchical structure based on social status.
• 😀 Javanese people value language as a reflection of their identity, with phrases like 'bahasa kubusananing bangsa' meaning that language is a representation of who we are.
• 😀 In contrast to the structured Javanese language, Ngapak remains free from the influence of the Yogyakarta dialect, being closer to its original, unrefined roots.
• 😀 The geographical and cultural distance from the royal centers of power allowed Banyumas culture and language to develop independently, preserving its unique characteristics.
• 😀 Ngapak is considered a pure form of Javanese, belonging to the 'Jawa Dwipa' or 'ngoko lugu' tradition, and is regarded as the true Javanese language, free from royal influence.

Q & A

What is the origin of the Ngapak language?

The Ngapak language, also known as the Banyumas dialect, originates from the Kutai region in East Kalimantan. The ancestors of the Banyumas people came from Kutai before the spread of Hinduism, as recorded by historian Van Der Mullen in the 3rd century BCE.

How did the people from Kutai spread to Java?

People from Kutai landed in Java, with some settling on the slopes of Mount Ciremai and others around Mount Slamet. Those near Mount Slamet later established the ancient Galuh Kingdom, which became the precursor to kingdoms in Java.

How does Ngapak differ from standard Javanese?

Ngapak is more direct and blunt compared to standard Javanese, which has several levels of speech depending on social status. Ngapak does not emphasize social distinctions, treating nobles and common people similarly.

What role does the Ngapak language play in the cultural identity of Banyumas?

Ngapak serves as the last stronghold of Banyumas' cultural identity, preserving the local heritage amid societal changes and progress. The language fosters solidarity and harmony within the Banyumas community.

What is the significance of language in Javanese culture?

In Javanese culture, language is seen as a reflection of one's identity. It is not only about communication but also about representing one’s attitude and mindset. The language's usage conveys respect, behavior, and hierarchy, especially through its various levels of formality.

What is 'unggah-ungguh' and its relation to Javanese language?

'Unggah-ungguh' refers to the etiquette or norms of behavior in Javanese culture, often tied to the use of language. It is a symbol of royal power and must be followed to show respect, especially when addressing higher-status individuals.

How is the Ngapak language different from other Javanese dialects?

Ngapak is considered closer to the original or pure form of Javanese, known as 'Jawa Murni'. Unlike the more refined Javanese spoken by nobility in Yogyakarta, Ngapak retains a simpler, direct structure and is often perceived as more 'rough'.

What is the relationship between Banyumas' geographical isolation and its language?

The geographical isolation of Banyumas from the centers of Javanese power, like Yogyakarta, allowed the Ngapak language and culture to develop independently. As a result, Banyumas remained largely unaffected by the cultural influence of the Javanese kingdoms.

What is the meaning of 'Ratu Cut hak Watu' in the context of Banyumas' history?

'Ratu Cut hak Watu' translates to 'far from the king and close to the stone', symbolizing the distance between the people of Banyumas and the royal powers. It reflects the region's independence and its minimal interaction with the central Javanese authority.

Why is Ngapak considered a 'pure' form of Javanese?

Ngapak is regarded as a pure form of Javanese because it is less influenced by the refined speech patterns of the Javanese nobility. It preserves the original, direct way of speaking that is seen as closer to the core Javanese language, referred to as 'Jawa Dwipa'.