Si Tanggang

Si Tanggang: A Tale of Kindness and Forgiveness

Edisi Indonesia: Si Tanggang

Folklore from the Riau Islands

In the distant past, on an island in the Riau Archipelago, there resided a young man named Tanggang. He was the cherished only child of a deeply loving mother, and together, they led a modest life as fishermen.

Tanggang harbored lofty aspirations and yearned for prosperity. One fateful day, a merchant vessel docked at their island. Witnessing the opulent wealth aboard the ship, Tanggang was enticed by the allure of the outside world. Driven by the desire for riches, he resolved to depart from his mother and pursue a better life as a trader.

After an extended period of wandering, Tanggang amassed immense wealth. However, in his pursuit, he forgot about the hardships his mother endured to nurture and educate him. Moreover, he disregarded his pledge to honor and care for his parents.

During a perilous voyage, when Tanggang's vessel was ensnared in a tempestuous storm, he implored God for salvation, vowing to construct a grand mosque if he survived the tempest.

Despite emerging from the maritime catastrophe unscathed, Tanggang failed to fulfill his vow. Rescued by another ship and recuperating from the harrowing incident, he neglected the pledge made amidst the tempest.

Upon returning to his native island, Tanggang rejoiced as thoughts of wealth consumed his mind. Yet, the islanders did not recognize him. Their rejection stemmed from his disrespectful conduct toward his mother.

Despondent and weary, Tanggang stumbled upon his mother's gravesite. It was then that the recollection of his forgotten pledge resurfaced. Racked with regret, he sought forgiveness for his transgressions.

However, Tanggang's remorse arrived too late, as he passed away in a state of regret, having never fulfilled his promise.

Moral Message: Kindness and Forgiveness

The tale of Si Tanggang imparts several moral lessons:

1. Respect for Parents: Reverence for parents stands as a crucial virtue. Neglecting or overlooking a parent's sacrifices and affection may lead to profound regret in the future.
2. Upholding Promises: Commitments should be honored. When a promise is made, it is vital to follow through, irrespective of its magnitude.
3. Kindness and Forgiveness: Despite Tanggang's significant lapse in disobeying his mother, the narrative also conveys a message of pardon and benevolence. Tanggang's realization of his error and plea for absolution highlight the importance of compassion and mercy in life.
4. Recollection of Origins: Preserving ties and remembering ancestral values are fundamental pillars in life's journey. It aids in self-awareness and guards against losing oneself in the pursuit of success.

The moral essence of Si Tanggang's story underscores the significance of values like parental respect, fidelity to promises, kindness, and an understanding of one's heritage in life's odyssey.