The Origin of Javanese Script

Legend of Aji Saka: The Tale of Bravery and the Birth of Javanese Script

Edisi Indonesia: Asal Mula Huruf Jawa

Folklore from East Java

Long ago in Medang Kamulan, a young and powerful man named Aji Saka journeyed with his two loyal companions, Dora and Sembada. Along the way, they paused in the Kendeng Mountains. Aji Saka entrusted his sacred dagger to Sembada, instructing him to guard it and never surrender it to anyone except himself. Continuing their journey without Sembada, Aji Saka later asked Dora to stay behind as he ventured on alone.

In Medang Kamulan, Aji Saka, with his extraordinary powers, defeated Prabu Dewata Cengkar, known for preying on humans. After saving the people, Aji Saka remembered his sacred dagger. He sought out Dora and asked him to retrieve it from Sembada. Fulfilling Aji Saka's command, Dora headed to reunite with his friend in the Kendeng Mountains.

Upon meeting, Dora expressed his intention to retrieve the sacred dagger. However, Sembada, honoring Aji Saka's command, refused to surrender it. Their loyal commitment to Aji Saka clashed, leading to a dispute and eventually a fierce battle between the two devoted companions. Meanwhile, Aji Saka, concerned about Dora's delay, rushed to the Kendeng Mountains.

Arriving at the scene, Aji Saka was dismayed to find his loyal companions lying lifeless, having fought each other to the death. Overwhelmed with grief and guilt for the tragedy that unfolded due to his initial command, Aji Saka paid tribute to their loyalty. He inscribed a few lines on a stone that read: "Ha Na Ca Ra Ka = ono wong loro (there are two people), Da Ta Sa Wa La = podho kerengan (both are fighting), Pa Dha Ja Ya Nya = podho joyone (both are equally strong), Ma Ga Ba Tha Nga = mergo dadi bathang lorone (hence both became corpses/died because of their equal strength)." These inscriptions, representing Aji Saka's homage to Dora and Sembada, would later be recognized as the Javanese script.

This tale honors the sacrifice and loyalty of two companions while highlighting the consequences of misunderstanding and the birth of the Javanese script from Aji Saka's remorseful tribute.

Read Also: The Scripts of Indonesia (Nusantara Scripts)

Moral Message: Clear Communication and the Significance of Loyalty

This story emphasizes the crucial role of clear understanding and effective communication, showcasing how even among trustworthy and loyal individuals, misunderstandings can arise. Placing emphasis on clarity and comprehension in the delivery and reception of messages can avert unnecessary conflicts or tragedies. Additionally, it underscores the importance of respecting and comprehending the instructions given by others, highlighting the invaluable role of loyalty in executing these orders.