Jejak Sejarah Kerajaan KALINGGA : Peradaban di Jawa Tengah

Summary

The video delves into the fascinating history of the Kalingga Kingdom, also known as Holing, located in Central Java. Unlike other kingdoms that left behind physical inscriptions, Kalingga maintains an air of mystery, with historical records first emerging from China in 647 AD. Led by the wise and just Queen Sima, the kingdom expanded its influence and thrived economically, focusing on trade in valuable commodities. However, the fall of Kalingga came when the mighty Srivijaya Kingdom attacked in the 8th century. Despite its decline, Kalingga’s legacy lives on in its cultural and spiritual contributions, especially its deep ties to Hinduism and Buddhism.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kalingga, also known as Holing, was an ancient and mysterious kingdom in Central Java, known for its rich yet enigmatic history.
• 😀 Unlike other kingdoms that left behind stone inscriptions, Kalingga maintained its mystery, with few physical remains such as the Prasasti (inscription) on Mount Merbab.
• 😀 The first historical record of Kalingga came from China in 647 AD, mentioning a kingdom ruled by a wise, honest, and strong leader.
• 😀 The Prasasti on Mount Merbab features symbols like a trident, a water pitcher, an axe, and a lotus, reflecting the strong Hindu influence in Kalingga.
• 😀 The exact location of Kalingga remains debated, with some historians connecting it to areas like Blora, Purwodadi, Salatiga, and Jepara.
• 😀 Kalingga’s government was unique, with four ministers managing 28 small kingdoms, making it a significant power in the region, spanning from Bali to possibly Cambodia and Sumatra.
• 😀 Kalingga's economy was based on the trade of valuable commodities like gold, silver, and rhinoceros horns, but it was also known for its disciplined and harmonious society under the rule of Queen Sima.
• 😀 The Prasasti Tukmas and Sojomerto offer insights into Kalingga’s religious and cultural influence, particularly Hinduism, through sacred water and royal symbolism.
• 😀 The kingdom of Kalingga eventually fell due to an attack by the Sriwijaya Empire, marking the end of its golden age with the death of Queen Sima in 695 AD.
• 😀 Despite the fall of Kalingga, the descendants of its leaders continued to influence history, contributing to the rise of the Mataram Kingdom in later centuries.

Q & A

What is the Kingdom of Kalingga known for in historical records?

The Kingdom of Kalingga, also known as Holing, is part of the rich historical heritage of Central Java. Unlike other kingdoms that left behind stone inscriptions, Kalingga has kept its mysteries, with few physical records such as inscriptions to guide historians.

What was the first historical mention of the Kingdom of Kalingga?

The first historical mention of Kalingga comes from a Chinese record dating back to 647 AD, shedding light on the existence of the kingdom located along the northern coast of Central Java.

Where do historians believe the exact location of Kalingga might have been?

The exact location of Kalingga is still debated among historians. Some suggest it was located in Blora and Purwodadi, while others argue for places like Salatiga and Jepara.

How was the government of Kalingga structured?

Kalingga had a unique governance structure with four prime ministers overseeing 28 smaller kingdoms across Central and East Java. This made Kalingga a significant center of power during its time.

What were the geographical boundaries of the Kingdom of Kalingga?

The kingdom’s influence spanned vast territories, potentially from the island of Bali in the east, possibly up to Cambodia in the north, and from Sumatra in the west to the southern seas.

What was the economic basis of Kalingga?

Kalingga’s economy was primarily based on the trade of valuable commodities like gold, silver, and rhino horns. However, its prosperity wasn't solely reliant on material wealth but also on its strong governance and social structure.

How did Ratu Sima contribute to the Kingdom of Kalingga?

Ratu Sima, the queen of Kalingga, was known for her strict, wise, and just rule. Under her leadership, Kalingga flourished, creating a harmonious social order and strict laws that ensured the kingdom’s stability.

What role did Hinduism play in the Kingdom of Kalingga?

Hinduism had a strong influence on Kalingga, as seen in the symbolism on inscriptions and temples. The kingdom’s spiritual and cultural practices were heavily influenced by Hindu beliefs, with symbols like the trisula (trident), lotus, and other Hindu motifs appearing on various artifacts.

How did the Kingdom of Kalingga fall?

The decline of Kalingga was marked by an invasion from the Sriwijaya Kingdom. By 695 AD, after the death of Ratu Sima, the kingdom faced internal divisions, and the external pressure from Sriwijaya led to its eventual downfall.

What historical sites are associated with the Kingdom of Kalingga?

Key historical sites associated with Kalingga include the Tukmas inscription in Dakau, the Sojomerto inscription in Batang, and the Angin Temple in Jepara, which are vital to understanding the kingdom’s past.