Putri Pandan Berduri: The Wise Daughter of the Thorny Tree and the Journey of Life's Lessons
Putri Pandan Berduri >> Edisi Indonesia
Folklore from Riau
Folklore from Riau
An old man named Batin Lagoi was on his way home, his steps measured and deliberate. As the leader of his village, he was well-respected, known for his wisdom, wealth, and power. But more than that, he was revered for his intelligence and the way he carried himself with grace, always calm and thoughtful in his actions.
On this particular day, as he walked slowly along the path, a sound interrupted his thoughts. It was faint at first, but it became more distinct with each step. It was the sound of a baby crying. Batin Lagoi stopped, his sharp ears catching the direction of the sound. He glanced around, wondering where it was coming from. The cries echoed through the air, piercing the calm, and his heart softened.
Following the sound, he found the source—it was coming from a pandanus tree, its spiky, thorny branches reaching up toward the sky. Curious and concerned, Batin Lagoi made his way closer to the tree. As he approached, he was astonished by what he saw. Nestled among the thorns, in a small clearing beneath the tree, lay a baby girl, her face scrunched in distress as she cried.
Without hesitation, Batin Lagoi gently lifted the baby into his arms. The thorns seemed to part for him, as if recognizing his presence and allowing him to take the child without harm. He wrapped the baby carefully in his cloak and brought her home with him.
At home, he pondered what to name the girl. The thorny pandanus tree, where he had found her, gave him an idea. He named her Putri Pandan Berduri—"Pandan" after the tree, and "Berduri" for the thorns that had protected her. Though the name was unusual, it held a deep meaning, symbolizing strength and resilience.
Batin Lagoi raised Putri Pandan Berduri as his own daughter, providing her with everything she could ever need. He dressed her in the finest clothes, adorned her with precious jewelry, and made sure she was always comfortable. But despite his generosity, Putri Pandan Berduri was not spoiled. She was wise beyond her years, always eager to learn and understand the world around her. Batin Lagoi, proud of his adopted daughter, taught her the lessons of life, wisdom, and knowledge—lessons that were not just of books, but of the heart.
As she grew, Putri Pandan Berduri became known for her intelligence and grace. She was humble and kind, treating everyone she met with respect, regardless of their status. Her father's teachings had shaped her into a thoughtful, mature young woman. She was not only wise but also had a natural curiosity to learn new things, constantly seeking to improve herself.
One day, while walking near the village, Putri Pandan Berduri encountered an elderly woman. The woman was struggling to carry a large bundle of firewood, her frail arms trembling under the weight. Putri Pandan Berduri, noticing the woman's distress, approached her and offered to help. "May I assist you with your firewood, Grandmother?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine concern.
The old woman smiled, grateful for the kindness. "Oh, thank you, child," she said, and the two began to walk together toward the old woman’s humble cottage.
As they walked, Putri Pandan Berduri asked, “Why are you collecting firewood all by yourself? Where is your family to help you?”
The old woman sighed softly. “I live alone now,” she replied. “My husband passed away many years ago, and I have no children to care for me.”
Putri Pandan Berduri’s heart ached for the woman. “Why don't you ask your neighbors to help you with such heavy work?” she asked, concerned.
The old woman gave a small, wistful smile. “I don't want to be a burden to anyone. If I am able, I prefer to do it myself.”
This answer struck a chord with Putri Pandan Berduri. The old woman’s independence and quiet strength impressed her. She felt that there was much wisdom in the way the woman approached life, and she wanted to learn more.
“Grandmother,” Putri Pandan Berduri said thoughtfully, “may I stay with you for a while and learn from you? I would like to understand more about the ways of life, how you live on your own, and how you’ve managed to be so strong.”
The old woman’s eyes softened with warmth. “Of course, child. I would be honored to teach you what I know.”
Putri Pandan Berduri asked her father, Batin Lagoi, for permission to stay with the old woman. At first, he hesitated. He had always kept her close, ensuring her safety and comfort. But after seeing her determination and hearing her reasoning, he reluctantly agreed, knowing that this was an opportunity for her to learn and grow.
Thus, Putri Pandan Berduri moved into the old woman's cottage. Over the following months, she learned much more than she had ever expected. She learned the delicate art of cooking, how to clean and tend to the house, and how to live simply yet contentedly. The old woman also shared the deeper lessons of life—the importance of patience, resilience, and humility. She taught her about the strength found in solitude and the peace that comes with accepting life as it is.
Though the work was tiring, Putri Pandan Berduri never once complained. In fact, she grew stronger, both physically and emotionally. The old woman’s wisdom was invaluable, and Putri Pandan Berduri treasured every lesson she learned.
Through the old woman, Putri Pandan Berduri discovered that true wisdom did not lie in riches or power, but in understanding the value of hard work, humility, and self-sufficiency. She had learned to appreciate the simplicity of life, and in turn, her heart became even wiser.
She returned to her father’s house after the time spent with the old woman, her mind full of new ideas and experiences. She had changed, becoming not just a daughter of privilege, but a woman of wisdom, strength, and compassion.
And so, Putri Pandan Berduri's story spread far and wide, inspiring others to seek wisdom in the simplest of acts and to find strength in the quiet moments of life.
Moral Message:
True wisdom lies not in wealth or power, but in the ability to work hard, be humble, and live independently. True strength comes from inner peace, accepting life as it is, and finding happiness in simplicity. In life, we can learn a great deal from those who choose to live with determination and appreciate the small moments that bring peace.
 |
| Pandanus Tree |
