The Icon of Indonesia's Independence War, Existed in Sukuh Temple from Majapahit Era???

Summary

This video explores the weapons and military technology used by the Majapahit Empire, offering a deep dive into ancient Java's history. It covers the impressive military prowess of the Majapahit, including the use of sharpened bamboo, spears, maces, and various hand-held weapons, as well as the techniques for crafting them. The video also sheds light on the archaeological evidence from temple reliefs, showcasing different weapon types and their uses in battle. Additionally, literary sources and temple imagery highlight the evolution of Majapahit’s weaponry, the role of body armor, and the empire's overall dominance in the archipelago.

Takeaways

• 😀 Majapahit empire utilized various weapons, including spears, maces, and sharpened bamboo, which were depicted in temple reliefs such as those at Sukuh Temple.
• 😀 Majapahit had a powerful military that could control the archipelago, as evidenced by historical events like their defeat of the Chinese fleet during the Ming Dynasty.
• 😀 Weapons used in the Majapahit era were not only for offense but also for protection, reflecting the empire’s need to safeguard its people and sovereignty.
• 😀 The reliefs at Sukuh Temple provide visual evidence of Majapahit weapons, including details about how these weapons were stored and prepared for battle.
• 😀 Blacksmiths in the Majapahit era forged weapons and tools, as shown in reliefs depicting metalworking scenes in temples like Sukuh.
• 😀 While the exact forms of some weapons are unclear, literary works such as the Song of Sudamala mention various types of weaponry, like arrows capable of severing limbs.
• 😀 Majapahit warriors used various types of shields, such as the round ‘parise’, and were equipped with body armor like kawaca or karambalang for protection.
• 😀 The Majapahit navy was a significant force, capable of defending the empire’s territory and projecting power across the seas, as seen in their victory over the Chinese fleet.
• 😀 Despite the technological advancements in weaponry, Majapahit’s military success relied on unity, cultural respect, and justice within its empire.
• 😀 Some literary sources mention early firearms or cannons, but historical evidence on their actual use during the Majapahit era is uncertain, and these claims are based on later interpretations.

Q & A

What weapons were used during the Majapahit era, according to the script?

The Majapahit era utilized a variety of weapons including spears, daggers (keris), maces, axes, shields, swords, and even sharpened bamboo. Reliefs from temples like Sukuh Temple depict these weapons being used by soldiers and warriors during battles.

How does the script explain the significance of the Ming Dynasty's account of the Majapahit empire?

The Ming Dynasty chronicles describe how Majapahit's navy destroyed a Chinese fleet that was sent to install a king in Dharmasraya. This highlights Majapahit's naval strength and dominance, even influencing the Chinese emperor to avoid direct communication with Majapahit.

What role did weapons technology play in the Majapahit empire's power?

Weapons technology was crucial in maintaining Majapahit's military superiority, enabling the empire to defend itself and expand its territory, including dominating both land and sea warfare.

What unique feature does the relief from Sukuh Temple reveal about ancient Javanese weapons?

The reliefs at Sukuh Temple show a variety of weapons, including spears, swords, and shields. Notably, they depict how weapons were stored and carried, such as how shields were held by inserting the hand into clamps, which was a unique feature of ancient Javanese warfare.

What types of weapons are mentioned in classical literary works like Kakawin and Kidung?

Classical literary works mention various types of weapons such as arrows, spears, swords (pdang, khanda), daggers (keris, patrem), and stabbing weapons (tewek). The works also describe fire arrows capable of burning and other specialized weapons used in warfare.

Did the Majapahit warriors wear armor during battle?

Yes, Majapahit warriors wore protective clothing, such as metal armor (kawaca), chest protectors (karambalang), and helmets (rukuh). Additionally, chainmail-like clothing (waju rante) was used, resembling armor from medieval Europe.

What weapons were depicted in the relief of the Punakawan from Sukuh Temple?

The Punakawan relief shows soldiers preparing for battle, with weapons like spears, bamboo weapons, and a mace. It also highlights how weapons were stored and displayed, providing a glimpse into the military preparation of ancient Javanese troops.

What does the script say about the possibility of firearms being used during the Majapahit era?

The script mentions that while certain hymns and texts suggest the existence of firearms like rifles and cannons, there is no concrete evidence from primary sources, such as inscriptions or temple reliefs, to confirm their use during the Majapahit era. It remains speculative.

What role did blacksmiths play in the Majapahit era, based on the Sukuh Temple reliefs?

The reliefs at Sukuh Temple show blacksmiths forging weapons, such as spearheads, scythes, and machetes. This indicates that blacksmithing was an essential craft for producing the weapons that were used in Majapahit's military campaigns.

How did the Majapahit empire ensure its protection, according to the script?

The script suggests that the Majapahit empire’s protection was rooted in unity, justice, and the careful use of weapons for defense. The emperor, Hayam Wuruk, emphasized the role of the empire in safeguarding the rights of its people, with weapons serving both protective and destructive purposes.