Jaka Tarub

The Life Journey and Mission of Kyai Ageng Tarub

Esdisi Bahasa Indonesia: Jaka Tarub

Folklore from East Java

Kyai Ageng Tarub, originally named Sayyid Ibrahim, was the son of Syekh Maulana Malik Ibrahim or Sunan Gresik. He was raised and educated by his father, following the tradition of the pious figures of Islam. As was customary, when young individuals reached adulthood and had acquired sufficient knowledge and understanding, they were instructed to propagate the teachings of Islam.

Upon bidding farewell to his parents, Kyai Ageng Tarub embarked on a journey to spread the teachings of Islam. During his travels, he encountered a woman named Dewi Kasihan, who was speaking near a grave. This woman had lost her husband, Aryo Penanggungan, and had not been blessed with a child. Dewi Kasihan's compassion for her late husband led her to visit his grave daily. Seeing her plight, Kyai Ageng Tarub felt deep sympathy for her lonely and modest life.

One day, he feigned unconsciousness near Dewi Kasihan's house, and she came to his aid. After awakening and sharing a meal, Kyai Ageng Tarub was asked about his origins and destination. He replied that he was lost and without a purpose, as he was an orphan. Dewi Kasihan then adopted him as her own son and named him Jaka Tarub after the village he hailed from.

Jaka Tarub quickly gained popularity due to his striking looks and his generous nature. Anyone who sought his assistance received it willingly. Rumors of Dewi Kasihan's adopted son, known for his striking appearance, spread to neighboring villages. People from all around flocked to witness the truth. Dewi Kasihan, once impoverished, became wealthy from the contributions of these visitors.

Apart from helping Dewi Kasihan, Jaka Tarub frequently ventured into the forest for hunting. Deep in the woods, he met an elderly man who endowed him with exceptional knowledge and skills, specifically the power of Tulup Tunjung Lanang. This knowledge would later play a significant role in Kyai Ageng Tarub's life.

One day, while hunting in the forest, Jaka Tarub heard the melodious song of a turtledove. He tried to approach and shot an arrow, but he missed. Convinced that this bird was no ordinary creature, he pursued it further. The bird led him to different directions, and each place where the bird had perched acquired a distinct name.

Eventually, the turtledove landed on an asam tree. Jaka Tarub shot another arrow, but the bird didn't budge. Deep in thought, he wondered if this was merely a bird or a temptation. However, his attention shifted when he overheard the sound of women bathing in a nearby spring. Entranced by the celestial nymphs, he watched their bathing rituals. In a moment of weakness, Jaka Tarub took one of their shawls and brought it home, hiding it beneath a heap of black rice.

When the celestial nymphs returned to the sky, they were one shawl short. Nawang Wulan, the nymph he had seen, remained behind. Over time, Jaka Tarub and Nawang Wulan formed a bond, and they eventually married. They had three daughters, and life was happy. 

Yet, when Jaka Tarub discovered Nawang Wulan's culinary magic, he couldn't resist revealing her secret by lifting the lid of her cooking pot. This action led to the loss of her magical cooking abilities and resulted in hardship. Further events unfolded, including the discovery of Nawang Wulan's lost shawl, her return to the celestial realm, and the promise of a reunion under the full moon.

Jaka Tarub kept his promise to bring his daughter out during the full moon, but Nawang Wulan never returned. Her absence left him heartbroken.

The Majestic and Noble Jaka Tarub

Jaka Tarub is also renowned as the Majestic and Noble Jaka Tarub. This legend holds a special place in the hearts of the Javanese people. Jaka Tarub is celebrated as a figure of great nobility and wisdom. He is honored for his role in transmitting Islam's teachings and for his extraordinary character.

His story is deeply rooted in the Javanese cultural and historical landscape. The legend tells of Jaka Tarub's journey to meet and marry Dewi Nawang Wulan, a celestial nymph. In some versions of the tale, his character is portrayed differently, but these variations are all part of the rich folklore tapestry. Their union results in the birth of three daughters, and Jaka Tarub's enduring legacy includes his noble character and virtuous deeds.

Also Read: Jaka Tarub and Nawang Wulan

The Majestic and Noble Jaka Tarub is a symbol of integrity and righteousness. His story is a testament to the moral values and traditions of the Javanese people, and he remains a beloved figure in the hearts of many.

October 13, 2023

Magical dove