Revealing the Mysterious Origins of Gajah Mada at Singosari Temple, Malang

Summary

The Singosari Temple in Indonesia, built in honor of King Kertanegara, is a significant symbol of the Majapahit Empire's efforts to unite the archipelago. Linked to Gajah Mada, the empire’s Mahapatih, the temple reveals the rich history of the region and the deep loyalty to Majapahit’s rulers. Despite being a stunning architectural marvel, the temple also holds secrets about Gajah Mada’s origins and his role in revitalizing the kingdom. Over time, the temple has been subject to looting and historical misunderstandings, but it continues to stand as a testament to devotion and unity in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Singosari Temple, located at the foot of Mount Arjuno, is famous not only for its sculptures but also for revealing secrets about Gajah Mada's origins and his role in uniting the Indonesian archipelago.
• 😀 Singosari Temple was restored in the 1930s, around the same time Mahatma Gandhi was leading India's non-violent independence movement.
• 😀 The temple's construction and restoration are linked to King Kertanegara of Singhasari and the efforts of Gajah Mada to honor him after his death.
• 😀 Gajah Mada, appointed Mahapatih (prime minister) in 1334, is renowned for his unification efforts under the Majapahit Empire.
• 😀 The Singosari Temple represents the cosmic model of the three worlds: the underworld (Bhurloka), the world of saints (Bhurwaloka), and the world of the gods (Swarloka).
• 😀 The temple is full of andesite stone and has a unique layout, with niches for statues of gods, representing different realms, especially at the base of the temple.
• 😀 The statues in the temple reflect the complex mythology and religious beliefs of the era, with figures like Mahakala, Nandiswara, Durga Mahesasuramardini, and Ganesha, many of which are now housed in museums abroad.
• 😀 Singosari Temple's iconography, despite being in the Singhasari style, contains elements that suggest possible renovations or modifications under Gajah Mada's command to honor King Kertanegara.
• 😀 The unfinished state of the temple, with some parts still rough and incomplete, suggests that it might not have been fully finished at the time of Gajah Mada's death.
• 😀 The temple and its history are often misunderstood due to the looting of artifacts over centuries, both during colonial times and after Indonesia's independence, yet it remains a symbol of devotion, unity, and loyalty.

Q & A

What is the significance of Singosari Temple in Indonesia's history?

Singosari Temple is significant because it not only showcases the beauty of ancient Indonesian architecture but also holds deep historical importance related to Gajah Mada's efforts to unite the archipelago, as well as King Kertanegara's vision of unification.

Why did Gajah Mada decide to hide King Jayanagara in Bedander Village?

Gajah Mada decided to hide King Jayanagara in Bedander Village to protect him from the rebellion led by Rakryan Kuti, who had taken control of Majapahit's capital. Gajah Mada's swift action helped return King Jayanagara to the throne.

What was the Palapa Oath and why is it important?

The Palapa Oath, taken by Gajah Mada in 1334, was a vow to unite the archipelago under Majapahit rule, fulfilling the vision of King Kertanegara. It is important because it symbolizes Gajah Mada's commitment to the unification of Indonesia.

What makes the statues of Singosari Temple unique?

The statues of Singosari Temple are unique due to their intricate batik motifs and dynamic portrayals of gods, such as Durga Mahesasuramardini, which contrasts with other statues in the archipelago that tend to be more graceful.

Why are some of the statues from Singosari Temple now located in the Netherlands?

The statues from Singosari Temple were taken to the Netherlands during the colonial period by the Dutch East Indies government, and they are now housed in the Rijksmuseum.

What is the significance of the empty niches in Singosari Temple?

The empty niches in the four corners of Singosari Temple may hold clues to Gajah Mada's origins and the temple's purpose, which connects to the philosophical ideas of formlessness and the unification of divine realms as described in the Sutasoma book.

What is the architectural layout of Singosari Temple?

Singosari Temple is designed with five roofs, although only one remains intact. The floor plan forms an asta dikpalaka, symbolizing Mount Mahameru surrounded by eight mountains, representing a sacred connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.

What role did Gajah Mada play in the construction of Singosari Temple?

Gajah Mada is believed to have either built or renovated Singosari Temple as a caitya (shrine) to honor King Kertanegara, in accordance with the orders of Queen Tribhuwana Tunggadewi.

Why do some historians believe Gajah Mada was not the original builder of Singosari Temple?

Some historians believe Gajah Mada may not have built Singosari Temple from scratch because the temple's iconography reflects the Singhasari style rather than the Majapahit style. They suggest that he may have renovated it instead.

What are the ongoing issues related to the preservation of Singosari Temple?

Singosari Temple has faced challenges due to looting and theft, both during the Dutch colonial period and after Indonesia's independence. Statues have been stolen and taken abroad, but some have been recovered over time.