The Legend of Batu Benawa Mountain: A Tale of a Son's Betrayal, a Mother's Love, and Divine Justice
In South Kalimantan, there is a mountain that draws tourists from near and far. A favorite spot for campers, it offers stunning natural views and a serene atmosphere. This mountain, known as Gunung Batu Benawa or Batu Benawa Mountain, is not just a geographical wonder but also a place steeped in folklore. Local residents say the mountain has a legendary tale that explains its origin, a story passed down through generations. Curious about how the mountain came to be? Let’s delve into the legend.
A long time ago, in a humble village, there lived an old woman and her only son, Raden Penganten. Their life was simple; they survived on a small piece of land where they grew crops. Occasionally, Raden Penganten hunted animals in the jungle, selling their meat to make ends meet. Despite their hard work, they remained poor.
However, Raden Penganten was not content with his life of poverty. He dreamed of something more—a life of wealth and comfort. He envisioned living in a grand house, earning a fortune, and starting a family of his own. Determined to change his fate, he decided to leave his home and seek his fortune on another island.
When Raden Penganten shared his plans with his mother, she was heartbroken. “No, Son. Please stay here with me. We may not have much, but we have enough. We have each other, food to eat, and a roof over our heads,” she pleaded.
“But Mother,” he replied, “I want more than this. I want to get married, have a family, and give them a better life. I will go, but I promise to return soon with enough money to take care of you.”
His mother, knowing how stubborn her son could be, reluctantly let him go. Tears streamed down her face as she watched him leave, repeatedly reminding him to come back soon. Raden Penganten promised, but little did she know how much her life would change.
Raden Penganten embarked on his journey aboard a large ship. The voyage lasted for days until the ship reached a bustling city. Eager to find work, he approached several people, asking if they had a job for him. Eventually, a wealthy merchant took him in as an employee. Raden Penganten was overjoyed and threw himself into his work with determination and diligence.
Thanks to his intelligence and hard work, Raden Penganten quickly rose through the ranks. The merchant, impressed by his abilities, entrusted him with greater responsibilities. Under Raden Penganten’s management, the merchant’s business flourished. Over time, the merchant saw him as more than just an employee; he became like a son. The merchant had a beautiful daughter, and seeing Raden Penganten’s potential, he proposed a union between the two.
Raden Penganten, who had secretly fallen in love with the merchant’s daughter, accepted the proposal. Soon, the two were married in a lavish ceremony attended by many. It was a joyous occasion, and Raden Penganten felt his dreams coming true.
Months after the wedding, however, thoughts of his mother began to haunt him. Guilt weighed heavily on his heart. He decided it was time to visit her, bringing his wife along. Together, they set sail for his home village. As their ship approached the harbor, news of Raden Penganten’s return spread like wildfire. Villagers gathered, eager to welcome him home.
Among them was his mother. Hearing the news, she hurried to the harbor. Her heart swelled with joy at the thought of reuniting with her son. When she arrived, she saw the magnificent ship and the crowd of people marveling at it. Spotting her son, she called out, “Raden Penganten... Raden Penganten... Welcome home, Son!”
But instead of joy, Raden Penganten felt a wave of shame. His mother looked old and frail, her clothes ragged and dirty. Embarrassed to be associated with her, he turned away, pretending not to see her. Ignoring her desperate cries, he commanded the ship’s crew to leave the harbor immediately.
The old woman’s heart shattered. Betrayed and humiliated by her own son, she fell to her knees and prayed to God for justice. Her prayers were answered swiftly. Thunder roared, lightning flashed, and torrential rain poured from the heavens. A fierce storm battered the ship, tossing it mercilessly in the waves.
The ship could not withstand the storm and broke apart. As the wreckage washed ashore, a massive piece of the ship began to transform. Slowly, it turned into a mountain, standing as a permanent reminder of Raden Penganten’s betrayal and his mother’s sorrow.
To this day, the mountain is known as Gunung Batu Benawa. Its story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of greed and the importance of honoring one’s parents. The mountain stands as a silent witness to the power of love, the pain of betrayal, and the divine justice that prevails.
Moral Message:
The story of Gunung Batu Benawa teaches us the importance of gratitude, humility, and respecting our parents. It serves as a reminder that material wealth and success mean nothing if we abandon the people who love us unconditionally. Betraying those who have sacrificed for us can lead to regret and divine retribution.
