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Showing posts with label Yogyakarta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Yogyakarta. Show all posts

The Legend of Merapi Mountain

The Fiery Birth of Mount Merapi: The Blacksmiths' Defiance and the Wrath of the Gods






A long time ago, deep in the heart of Java, the island was unbalanced in ways that could not be ignored. The western side of the island was much higher than the rest, causing the land to tilt precariously. This unnatural tilt was a source of worry for the gods of the heavens, as such an imbalance in the earth could lead to catastrophic consequences—floods, droughts, or even the collapse of the island itself. The gods knew that they had to act before it was too late.

At the peak of the western lands stood a mighty and imposing mountain—Mount Jamurdipa. Its towering presence was a symbol of the great imbalance in the land. The gods, observing the situation from above, came to the decision that the only way to restore balance to Java was to move this massive mountain to the center of the island. By doing so, they hoped to create harmony across the entire island, ensuring that the forces of nature could flow evenly and peacefully once more. The gods gathered their strength and powers, preparing for an extraordinary feat that would change the island forever.


The Gods’ Plan

A grand meeting was held in the heavens. The chief of the gods, Batara Guru, sat upon his golden throne, addressing the divine council.

"We must move Mount Jamurdipa," he declared. "Only then can the land be at peace."

The gods nodded in agreement. However, there was a problem. The place where the mountain needed to be moved was already occupied.

Two powerful blacksmiths, Empu Rama and Empu Pamadi, lived there. They were not ordinary men—they were master craftsmen, known throughout the land for forging the finest keris, traditional daggers said to hold mystical powers. Their blades were sought by kings and warriors, for they could cut through anything and even whisper the fate of their wielders.

Batara Guru turned to his trusted advisor, Batara Narada.

"Go to the blacksmiths and ask them to move," he commanded. "We will give them another place to live."








The Blacksmiths’ Refusal

Batara Narada descended from the heavens in a brilliant flash of light. He found Empu Rama and Empu Pamadi hard at work, hammering molten metal into beautiful, deadly keris. Sparks danced like fireflies around them.

"Great blacksmiths," Batara Narada said, his voice echoing with divine power. "The gods have chosen this land for an important purpose. You must move elsewhere, for Mount Jamurdipa shall be placed here to balance Java."

Empu Rama wiped the sweat from his brow and shook his head. "We cannot leave this place."

Empu Pamadi stood beside him, gripping a half-finished blade. "This forge is sacred. It is here that the spirits of fire bless our work. If we leave, our keris will lose their power."

Batara Narada pleaded with them, but the blacksmiths stood firm. They would not leave.

Disappointed, Batara Narada returned to the heavens and reported to Batara Guru.

"They refuse to move."


The Wrath of the Gods

Batara Guru’s eyes darkened. "They dare to defy the will of the gods? Then they shall face the consequences!"

He summoned Dewa Bayu, the god of wind. "Remove the mountain at once! The land must be balanced—no matter the cost!"

Dewa Bayu nodded. "As you command."

He soared into the skies, his presence causing the trees to bow and the rivers to ripple. With a mighty breath, he lifted Mount Jamurdipa into the air. The earth trembled as the mountain floated like a leaf in a storm, carried by the divine wind.

As the mountain hovered over the blacksmiths’ house, a fierce woooossshhh echoed through the land.

With a final gust, Dewa Bayu dropped the mountain directly on top of the forge!





The Birth of Fire

The ground shook violently as the mountain crushed everything below. Empu Rama and Empu Pamadi were buried alive beneath the massive weight of the mountain, their spirits trapped beneath the earth.

But something strange happened.

From beneath the rocks, a deep rumbling began.

The forge, where the blacksmiths had once worked tirelessly, never stopped burning. The fire, fueled by their spirit and defiance, grew hotter and hotter, turning into an eternal flame.

Smoke rose from the peak of the mountain, and soon, it erupted—spitting fire and molten rock into the sky.

The local people watched in awe and terror.

"The mountain is alive!" they cried. "It is the spirit of the blacksmiths, burning with rage!"

From that day forward, the mountain was named Gunung Merapi—the Mountain of Fire.


The Legacy of Merapi

The Javanese people believe that the spirits of Empu Rama and Empu Pamadi still reside within the volcano, forging weapons of fire beneath the earth. When Merapi erupts, it is said that the blacksmiths are hammering their blades, sending sparks into the sky.

To this day, Mount Merapi remains one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia, a constant reminder of the legend—of balance, defiance, and the eternal power of fire.



Moral of the Story

🔥 Balance must be maintained. The gods moved the mountain to restore harmony, teaching that nature thrives on balance.

🔥 Defying fate has consequences. The blacksmiths’ refusal to move led to their destruction, showing that stubbornness against greater forces can lead to downfall.

🔥 Legends live forever. Though the blacksmiths perished, their legacy lives on in the form of Merapi, showing that great spirits never truly fade.





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The Legend of Limestone Hill

The Legend of Limestone Hill: The Tale of King Dewata Cengkar and the Cursed Feast

Legenda Bukit batu kapur >> Edisi Indonesia




Long ago, in the lush and fertile lands of Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, there stood a powerful kingdom known as the Medang Kingdom. It was ruled by a fearsome and gluttonous king, King Dewata Cengkar, whose greatest pleasure in life was indulging in extravagant feasts. His hunger was insatiable, and he took great pride in tasting the most exquisite and rare delicacies from across the land.

Every day, his palace chefs worked tirelessly, their hands never resting as they chopped, stirred, and seasoned, striving to create dishes that would satisfy the king’s ever-growing appetite. The royal kitchen was always filled with the rich aromas of spices and sizzling meats, yet no matter how hard they toiled, King Dewata Cengkar was never truly content. He would push away lavish platters of food with a frown, demanding something even tastier, richer, and more indulgent than before. His chefs lived in constant fear, knowing that displeasing the king could mean punishment—or worse.






The Accidental Secret

One fateful day, as the palace kitchen buzzed with frantic energy, the chefs hurried to prepare yet another extravagant feast for King Dewata Cengkar. The scent of roasted meats and fragrant spices filled the air as pots boiled and knives chopped with precision. Amid the rush, one of the palace chefs, exhausted from his relentless work, lost focus for just a moment. As he sliced through a pile of ingredients, his knife slipped—cutting deep into his finger.

A sharp pain shot through his hand, and before he could react, a few drops of his blood trickled into the steaming pot before him. His eyes widened in horror. He knew that even the smallest mistake in the royal kitchen could cost him dearly. If the king discovered what had happened, he would surely be punished—perhaps even sentenced to death.

His hands trembled as he glanced around, hoping no one had noticed. Desperate, he quickly wiped his finger and concealed the wound, turning to his fellow chefs with pleading eyes. “Say nothing of this,” he whispered urgently. The other chefs, equally terrified of the king’s wrath, nodded in agreement. They dared not risk their lives over a few drops of blood. And so, the feast was served, with none suspecting the unintended ingredient that had found its way into the royal dish.





A Delectable Feast

When the meal was served, King Dewata Cengkar devoured it with delight. His eyes widened in astonishment.

“This is the most delicious dish I have ever tasted!” he proclaimed. “What have you done differently?”

The terrified chef hesitated but managed to murmur, “It is the same recipe as always, Your Majesty.”

Unaware of the secret ingredient, the king ordered a grand banquet and invited nobles, ministers, and guests to enjoy the meal. However, to his dismay, none of the dishes tasted as divine as the one he had eaten earlier. Furious, he threw the chef into the dungeon for failing to recreate the flavor.

Later, the chef’s frightened colleagues, unable to bear their friend’s suffering, finally confessed the truth: the secret ingredient was human blood.


The Reign of Terror Begins

King Dewata Cengkar was both horrified and intrigued. To confirm the claim, he ordered his soldiers to bring him a villager, and once again, a few drops of human blood were added to his meal.

The result was undeniable—the king had never tasted anything so delicious. His obsession grew, and from that day on, he demanded his soldiers capture innocent villagers to provide him with the secret ingredient.

A reign of terror swept across the Medang Kingdom. The people lived in fear, hiding in the forests and caves, praying for salvation. Their cries of despair reached the heavens, and the gods took pity on them.


The Arrival of Aji Saka

From a distant land, Aji Saka, a noble traveler and warrior with supernatural abilities, heard the whispers of the gods. He had long sought to rid the world of evil, and upon learning of King Dewata Cengkar’s monstrous deeds, he set out for Medang Kingdom.

Upon reaching the palace gates, he boldly declared, "I have come to offer my own blood to the king."

The soldiers were astonished but quickly brought him before the king, who was overjoyed. It had been too long since he had tasted the exquisite flavor of human blood.


A Clever Trick

“I will give you my blood,” Aji Saka said, “but I have one request: before you take it, you must remove my robe.”

The king scoffed, thinking it was a simple task. “Ha! That is easy!” he sneered.

However, as he pulled on the robe, something strange happened—the robe kept unraveling, stretching endlessly across the palace grounds. No matter how far he pulled, there was always more fabric.

The king grew exhausted, sweat dripping from his brow. As he stopped to catch his breath, Aji Saka seized his chance—he pushed the king with all his might!

King Dewata Cengkar stumbled backward, losing his balance, and before he could react, a mystical transformation took place. His body began to shift, his skin turned pale, and his form became unrecognizable.

To the astonishment of all, the wicked king was no longer a man but a massive white crocodile.







The Birth of Limestone Hill

Aji Saka, knowing the beast could still bring harm, raised his enchanted bow and shot a single arrow into the crocodile’s heart. With a final, monstrous roar, the creature fell lifeless to the ground.

The moment the crocodile’s body touched the earth, the land around it began to change. The once-fertile ground hardened into stone, and before the people’s eyes, a towering limestone hill rose where the king had fallen.

Though the land became barren, the people rejoiced, for their prayers had been answered. The kingdom was free from terror, and the bloodshed had finally ended.

Over time, the villagers learned to make use of the limestone, carving it into decorations and structures for their homes.

To this day, Gunung Kidul remains known for its vast limestone formations, and the legend of the cruel king serves as a reminder that greed and cruelty will always lead to one’s downfall.



Moral of the Story:

  • Greed leads to destruction. King Dewata Cengkar’s insatiable hunger for pleasure brought about his own downfall.

  • Cunning can defeat brute strength. Aji Saka did not need violence to win—his wisdom and trickery outmatched the king’s greed.

  • Justice prevails. Even when evil seems unstoppable, those who stand for righteousness will always find a way to bring balance.





Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta




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Kyai Gentayu

Kyai Gentayu: The Fearless Horse


Edisi Indonesia: Kyai Gentayu

On a bright morning, a gentle breeze swept through the land of Krebet. But the tranquility was soon broken by the sound of hooves pounding the earth. Upon it, Prince Diponegoro sat tall, his eyes fixed ahead, despite the weariness from their long journey.

"Don’t worry, Kyai Gentayu. We're almost there," whispered Diponegoro, feeling the extraordinary bond he shared with his horse. Kyai Gentayu, the jet-black steed with eyes full of determination, seemed to understand. He wasn’t just carrying Prince Diponegoro on his travels; he was also protecting him with every bit of his soul.

Suddenly, from behind the trees, Dutch soldiers appeared, surrounding Prince Diponegoro, who had been resting. Without warning, Kyai Gentayu let out a loud, defiant cry and charged forward, rushing through the Dutch ranks with incredible speed.

Dutch Soldier 1: "What is that?! A horse is attacking us!"

Dutch Soldier 2: "Watch out! That horse seems to have a mind of its own!"

Kyai Gentayu charged forward with all his might, smashing through the Dutch soldiers with an unexpected force. Two soldiers were thrown aside, and four others were killed by the horse’s fury. The Dutch soldiers were stunned, never imagining that a horse would fight them so fiercely.

Prince Diponegoro, who had been resting moments before, snapped to attention and ran to Kyai Gentayu's side. They exchanged a silent glance, and in that moment, they both understood—there was no bond stronger than theirs.

Diponegoro: "Kyai Gentayu, you’ve always saved me, but this time… it won’t be easy."

Kyai Gentayu continued to fight, tearing through the Dutch forces. However, in the heat of battle, fate took a cruel turn. Several gunshots struck Kyai Gentayu, injuring the brave steed, and he fell into a swamp. Despite his wounds, Kyai Gentayu tried to rise, unwilling to leave his master.

Dutch Soldier 3: "Finally, the horse has fallen… We’ve won!"

But for Diponegoro, Kyai Gentayu’s fall wasn’t the end. He gazed at his fallen horse with deep emotion.

Diponegoro: "You are a true friend, Kyai Gentayu. Without you, I would never have come this far."

In the shadow puppet play that was later performed, the story of "Kyai Gentayu Manggala Wira" was told. Ki Dalang Catur Kuncoro depicted how Kyai Gentayu, with his deep spiritual connection to Diponegoro, was willing to sacrifice himself for his master’s safety.

Ki Dalang Catur Kuncoro: "Kyai Gentayu wasn’t just a horse; he was a companion, a protector, and a hero who knew no fear. He gave his life for his beloved master."

On the shadow puppet stage, Kyai Gentayu was portrayed with remarkable bravery, charging at the Dutch soldiers with extraordinary power before ultimately falling in honor.

Ki Dalang Catur (continuing the story): "This horse, though he eventually fell, will always be remembered as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. Even in death, his spirit lives on in the struggle of Prince Diponegoro."






The Moral of Kyai Gentayu’s Story:

Kyai Gentayu’s tale teaches us many lessons, especially about the courage to fight even in the face of the greatest risks. Just like Kyai Gentayu, who never backed down in the face of danger, we are encouraged to face life’s challenges without fear. Sometimes, great struggles come with unimaginable sacrifices, but the outcome is glory that will be remembered for ages.

Diponegoro (in his heart): "True bravery is not just for humans; it belongs to those who are loyal, no matter their form. Kyai Gentayu, you will always live on in the spirit of my struggle."

---

The story of Kyai Gentayu not only lives on in history but also thrives within a culture that continues to evolve. Through shadow puppet performances and stories passed down through generations, young people are invited to remember the true meaning of loyalty, bravery, and sacrifice. Kyai Gentayu teaches us that heroism is not just about victory, but about how we fight for what is right, even if it requires a great personal sacrifice.



Young Diponegoro illustration


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The Legend of Merapi Mountain




MERAPI Mountain which literally means the Fire Mountain is an active volcano. There is a legend on how the mountain was made. Do you want to know the story? Read on!

The story happened a long time ago in Central Java. At that time, the island of Java was not balanced. The western side was higher. How could this happen? Well the gods in the heaven thought it was because there was a big mountain in western side. The name of the mountain was Jamurdipa Mountain.

The gods were planning to move the mountain to the center of the island. The head of the gods, Batara Guru, held a meeting with other gods.

"We agree to move the mountain in the center of the island. However there is one problem," said Batara Guru.

He continued, "There are two empus living in the place where we want to put the mountain."

Empu is a blacksmith, he is a person who creates objects from wrought iron or steel by forging the metal. The two empus who lived in the center of the islands were Empu Rama and Empu Pamadi. They were excellent at making keris, a traditional weapon which is believed to have magical powers. Not everybody could make great keris, only the chosen ones. Empu Rama and Empu Pamadi were the chosen ones. They mastered supernatural powers! >> [Read More]

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Kiskenda Cave

Kiskenda Cave: A Tale of Gods, Mortals, and the Colors of Perspective



Gua Kiskenda | Edisi Indonesia

Folklore from Yogyakarta

KISKENDA Cave was a home for Maesasura and Lembusura. They were brothers and they were strange creatures. They had human bodies but they had animal heads. They were the kings of all the wild animals in the jungle. They were also immortal. When one of them was dead, the other just had to step over the dead body then the dead one would come back to life!

Maesasura fell in love with Dewi Tara, she was a goddess and the daughter of Bathara Indra. The two brothers went to the heaven and talked to Bathara Indra. The god refused their proposal. He had heard how bad they were. It made them become very angry! The two strange creatures attacked all the gods and the goddesses in the heaven. All the gods and the goddesses were helpless. They gave up!

Maesasura and Lembusura kidnapped Dewi Tara and brought her to their home in Kiskenda Cave.

Bathara Guru, the god of gods, found a way how to bring Dewi Tara back to the heaven. There was a magic weapon named Aji Pancasona. The problem was that no one could handle the weapon. Only a man who had pure heart could possess it. All the gods and the goddesses looked for the man and they finally agreed to give it to Subali. He was the son of a holy man named Resi Gotama.

Subali was meditating when the gods came to him. They told him about how Maesasura and Lembusura kidnapped Dewi Tara. He agreed to help. He asked his younger brother, Sugriwa, to go with him.

Sulali and Sugriwa arrived at the Kiskenda Cave. Subali asked his brother to wait outside the cave.

He said, "If you see red blood flowing, it means they are dead. But if you see white blood, it means I'm dead. After that you have to close the cave with a big stone."

Sugriwa understood. Later Subali went inside the cave. He saw Dewi Tara and then he immediately brought her outside the cave. The two strange creatures were angry! They attacked him. With his magic weapon, Subali fought back. Maesasura was hit terribly. He was dead! Lembusura immediately stepped over his brother's dead body. Amazingly Maesasura was back to life! Subali was thinking. He knew it was useless if he killed one of them. He had to kill both of them at the same time!

And it worked! Maesasura and Lembusura were dead! Their blood mixed with their brain and it changed the color into white.

Sugriwa saw the 'white blood'. He thought his brother was dead. So he immediately closed the cave.

Su.bali was angry when the cave was closed. He thought his brother betrayed him. In the mean time, all the gods and the goddesses were happy when Dewi Tara was back home.

Bathara Indra was so grateful and he planned to set the wedding of Sugriwa and Dewi Tara. However during the wedding Subali came! He was so angry! He accused his brother for betraying him. He fought Sugriwa!

Their father stopped their fight. He asked what happened. Sugriwa told him about the "white blood" flowing and he thought Subali was dead.

The father was angry at Subali.

He said "Why do you think you have white blood? What makes you think you are special and different from us? All humans have red blood!"

The father asked Subali to continue meditating. He hoped Subali to be wiser. Subali did what his father said. He went back meditating.

Later the gods asked Sugriwa and Dewi Tara to live in Kiskenda Cave and build a kingdom. The cave still exists until now. It is located in Kulon Progo, Jogjakarta. ***




Reading the Signs: Kiskenda Cave and Reflections on Appreciation and Perspective

The moral of the story seems to highlight themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of rash judgments. It could convey the message that appearances can be deceiving, and decisions based on assumptions may lead to misunderstandings. Additionally, there may be a lesson about the importance of communication and trust among family members.



Retna Lestari and Bakuh the Giant

Retna Lestari dah Bakuh si Raksasa >> Edisi Bahasa Indonesia

 Folklore from Yogyakarta

A long time ago, there was a mean giant. And every time he wanted to eat, he always looked for the animals. He ate almost all kinds of animals. And of course, the animals did not live peacefully. They were scared Bakuh would eat them.

Slowly, the numbers of animals were decreasing. And finally there was no animal left in the jungle. Bakuh started to go to the villages. He wanted to eat humans!

The gods and the goddess in the heaven were angry. They wanted to punish Bakuh. Thereforg they sent one beautiful goddess. Her name was Retna Lestari.

Bakuh was walkingwhen he saw Retna Lestari picking some flowers. He was surprised to see a beautiful woman in the jungle. He fell in love instantly.

"Hello, beautiful girl. What's your name? I never saw you before," said Bakuh.

"My name is Retna Lestari. And of course you never saw me. I always ran and saved my life when you were hungry. I hope now you are not hungry," said Retna Lestari.

"Don't be afraid, Retna. I will never eat you. You are so beautiful and I'm in love with you. Will you marry  me?" asked Bakuh.

"What? No way! I will never marry a mean giant like you."

"l'll do anything for you, Retna."

"Anything? OK.I wants to have red clouds during sunset. But I don't want you to get it for me. I don't want your sharp nails to tear the clouds."

"So, what do I have to do?"

"Simple. You just lie down with your face downward. I will stand on your back I hope I can reach the clouds."

And then Bakuh lied down with his face downward.

And when Retna Lestari was already standing on his back, she said, "I cannot reach the clouds. I will put some big stone on your back. I want to stand on the stones so I can reach the clouds."

"Can you reach the clouds now?" asked Bakuh.

"Not yet, I will put more stones on your body. And remember, don't move your body. If you do, I will fall," said Retna Lestari.

She immediately put more stones. This time she put bigger stones. With her power as a goddess, she could put the big stones easily.

Slowly, all Bakuh's body was covered by stones. Retna Lestari put two very big stones, one on his head and one on his feet. Bakuh could not breathe. He wanted to stand up but he could not do it. He then realized that Retna Lestari already tricked him. He just yelled and screamed!

Slowly the two big stones became mountains. The big stone on Bakuh's head became Merapi Mountain and the big stone on his feet became Merbabu Mountain.

People now say that when they hear a rumbling noise from the mountains, they believe that Baku is yelling and screaming. He is cursing Retna Lestari for tricking him. ***

Mt Merbabu

The Queen Mosquito

Ratu Nyamuk >> Edisi Bahasa Indonesia

Folklore from Yogyakarta

THERE was a village in Yogyakarta. The villagers were farmers. They lived happily and peacefully. They had fertile land and healthy livestock.

It was harvest. All farmers were happy because soon they would sell their rice and got lots of money.

However, while they were busy working in the rice fields, one farmer came and told them a bad news.

"The queen mosquito is coming! Save our livestock!" said the farmer.

All farmers immediately left their rice fields and tried to save their chickens, ducks, goats, and cows.

Why were they afraid of the queen mosquito? Well, this mosquito was different from other mosquitoes. She was the queen mosquito. She was very big. She was as big as a goat! Also she could fly as fast as a bird. When the queen was thirsty she would attack any animals and sucked the blood. When there were no animals, the queen would attack humans! That was why farmers were so scared.

After all their livestock was safe, all farmers were having a meeting.

"We have to do something! We have to find a way how to stop the queen mosquito."

An old man spoke. He was known as the Smartest and wisest person.

"I know how to stop the queen. Her power is in her earrings. If we can get her earrings, she will be powerless and she will be as small as other mosquitoes."

"But how can we steal her earrings?" asked one man.

"The queen will lay her eggs soon. She cannot do it alone. She needs help to lay her eggs. I'm sure she will ask Madam Sri to help her."

Who was Madam Sri? Well, she was a nurse. She often helped women deliver their babies. Then the old man talked to Madam Sri. She agreed to help. The old man told her how to steal the earrings. The queen mosquito came. She talked to Madam Sri. Yes, she could talk to humans.

"Please help me to lay my eggs."

"I will help you but you have to give me your earrings. It's too dangerous if you still wear your earrings while you lay your eggs."

The queen mosquito believed her. Without any doubts, she gave her the earrings. Then Madam Sri asked her to sit on the bushes. Again, the queen mosquito listened to her.

The queen mosquito gave her the earrings. Madam Sri immediately kept them in a very safe place. When the queen was sitting comfortably on the bushes, Madam Sri burnt the bushes. The smoke made the queen very weak. Amazingly she slowly became very small, just like any other mosquitoes.

The queen was very angry. She yelled and screamed! She asked Madam Sri to return her earrings. However she was too small. She could not speak clearly and Madam Sri only heard buzzing sound.

The queen thought it was useless so she asked all the mosquitoes to attack Madam Sri. When she saw lots of mosquitoes came to attack her, Madam Sri again burnt the bushes.

The smoke made the mosquitoes very weak and some of them died. However the queen survived and she swore that she would always ask mosquitoes to attack humans.

Well, that is why we hear mosquitoes buzzing. They ask us to return their queen's earrings! ***

Mosquito

Gentong Mountain

Raden Patah: The Journey of a Loyal Son and the Legacy of Gentong Mountain


Gunung Gentong >> Edisi Bahasa Indonesia

Folklore from Yogyakarta
 
Have you read the story of Raden Patah? It tells us how he began in the jungle and eventually returned to live in the Majapahit Kingdom's palace.

Are you curious to know what happens next in Raden Patah's journey? Keep reading, friends!

Raden Patah felt a surge of joy and awe as he stepped into the grand palace. Its towering walls, shimmering tapestries, and bustling courtyards were a stark contrast to the quiet solitude of the jungle he had known as home. Here, every corner echoed with history, and the people walked with pride and purpose. The king, his father, warmly welcomed him and took it upon himself to teach Raden Patah everything—statecraft, diplomacy, and the art of leadership.

One afternoon, as they walked through the palace gardens, the king spoke earnestly to Raden Patah. "My son," he said, "one day, this kingdom will need a wise and strong leader to guide it. I believe that leader will be you."

Raden Patah felt a sense of responsibility growing in his heart. He studied diligently, mastering skills of warfare, governance, and the wisdom of the ancient texts. But his character was what set him apart—he was as kind as he was skillful. He listened to the people's needs, treated everyone with respect, and offered help wherever he could.

Years passed, and Raden Patah’s reputation spread across the land. His strength, intelligence, and compassion inspired deep admiration among the people. But it was not only his qualities that people respected; they loved him for his heart. His father, seeing the maturity and strength in his son, decided that Raden Patah was ready for greater responsibilities.

"Raden Patah," the king said one day, "I am sending you to Palembang to lead and care for the people there. They, too, are under our kingdom, and they need a wise ruler."








Though it was a challenging task, Raden Patah accepted with humility. Upon arriving in Palembang, he set to work, transforming the land into a prosperous and peaceful region. He built markets, supported agriculture, and forged alliances with the local leaders. Over time, he recruited many loyal men and trained them, establishing a disciplined and strong army to protect the people.

Yet, amid his duties, Raden Patah often found his mind drifting back to his father. He missed the old king deeply and yearned for his guidance. One night, as he lay under the stars, he dreamed of his father, looking frail and distant. Raden Patah woke up with a heavy feeling in his chest; he sensed that something was wrong.

Without delay, he prepared his soldiers and set out to return to Java. As his convoy approached Majapahit, a sentry of the kingdom noticed the procession and quickly informed the king. The report troubled the king, and an advisor whispered suspicions into his ear.

“Your Majesty,” the advisor cautioned, “Raden Patah may be returning with resentment in his heart. Remember, he was once left alone in the jungle. Perhaps he has come to exact revenge.”

The king’s heart grew heavy with worry. Though he trusted his son, the seeds of doubt had been planted. He ordered the palace to be emptied, and he and the queen departed secretly, hoping to avoid confrontation. By the time Raden Patah and his men reached the palace, it was eerily quiet, with no sign of the king.

“Where is everyone?” Raden Patah asked, bewildered and disappointed. A guard revealed that the king had left for the hills, fearing Raden Patah’s intentions.

Raden Patah was taken aback. He knew he had to reassure his father, so he and his men quickly followed in pursuit. Meanwhile, the king and queen had settled on a barren, rocky hill, where the sun beat down relentlessly, and water was nowhere to be found. They were growing weak from thirst.

As Raden Patah neared the hilltop, he saw the dire state his father was in. His heart ached, and he knew he had to help. Gathering his strength and using his powers, he called upon his men to bring a giant earthenware gentong—a large water vessel—to the hill. With great effort, he lifted it and placed it near the peak where his father could reach it.

The gentong landed solidly on the hill, its cool water a lifesaver for the king and his companions. They eagerly drank, feeling the life return to their bodies. When the king saw his son approaching with open arms and concern in his eyes, he felt a rush of shame.

“Father,” Raden Patah asked softly, “why did you leave the palace? Why did you fear me?”

The king sighed, bowing his head. “I feared that perhaps you came with anger. My advisors told me you sought revenge for the hardships you once faced.”

Raden Patah shook his head, smiling gently. “I have only ever wanted to serve you, Father, and to see our people thrive. I came only to be by your side.”

The misunderstanding lifted like a fog, and the king embraced Raden Patah, realizing the depth of his son’s loyalty and love. Together, they returned to the palace, and the gentong remained atop the hill, a reminder of Raden Patah’s strength and devotion. Over time, the people called the place Gunung Gentong, or Gentong Mountain, in memory of the son who loved his father without condition.












Moral Message

The main moral message in this story is the strength of love, loyalty, and genuine understanding within family relationships. Even in the face of misunderstandings, Raden Patah demonstrates that good intentions, sincerity, and patience can overcome unfounded suspicions and fears. By helping his father in difficult times, Raden Patah not only proves his loyalty but also rebuilds trust and peace. Furthermore, the story teaches that virtues such as patience, compassion, and kindness are far more valuable than power or skill.





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Raden Patah

Raden Patah: The Hidden Heir of Majapahit and His Journey of Forgiveness, Wisdom, and Destiny


Raden Patah >> Edisi Bahasa Indonesia

Folklore from Yogyakarta

Prabu Brawijaya was the mighty king of Majapahit. With power that extended across the archipelago, he ruled with wisdom and strength, but within the palace walls, conflicts simmered that even the King found difficult to resolve. His wife, the Queen, felt the strain of jealousy and anger brewing within her heart as the King lavished his affections on one of his concubines, Ratu Mayangsari, whose beauty was renowned and, to the Queen’s dismay, even surpassed her own. The King adored her, cherishing her deeply, which only fueled the Queen’s resentment.

"I must rid myself of her presence!" the Queen whispered furiously one evening, pacing her chamber with clenched fists. "Her very existence is an insult to my title."

Her anger grew with each passing day, especially after she discovered that Ratu Mayangsari was pregnant. To the Queen, this child symbolized not only a threat to her own influence but a reminder of the King’s favoritism. Meanwhile, Prabu Brawijaya, aware of both his wife's animosity and Ratu Mayangsari's delicate condition, feared for the safety of both mother and child within the palace.

One evening, Prabu Brawijaya summoned one of his most trusted aides, an old and wise man named Ki Juru Sawah, who had served the palace loyally for many years. They met in secret, hidden from prying eyes and ears.

"Ki Juru Sawah," began the King solemnly, "I trust you more than anyone else. I need you to protect someone very precious to me. Ratu Mayangsari is expecting my child, and I fear that they are not safe within these walls. Can you take her to your village and care for her until the child is born?"

The old man nodded, his face reflecting both loyalty and concern. "I will do as you command, Your Majesty. I will treat them as my own kin, and the child will know nothing but love and respect."

With a deep bow, Ki Juru Sawah took Ratu Mayangsari under his care, escorting her quietly from the palace. They traveled through thick jungles and across rivers until they reached a secluded village where the King’s influence was minimal, providing the peace and secrecy needed. There, surrounded by nature, Ratu Mayangsari gave birth to a son. She named him Raden Patah, a name chosen with the hope he would grow strong and unbreakable, even in the face of adversity.

Years passed, and Raden Patah grew into a kind, spirited young boy under the watchful eye of Ki Juru Sawah. The boy's curiosity was boundless, and his abilities soon became evident. Ki Juru Sawah taught him many skills, from martial arts to the wisdom of the forest, preparing him for a future he knew the boy could scarcely imagine. What Ki Juru Sawah never told Raden Patah, however, was his true heritage—that he was the son of a king.









One warm afternoon, Raden Patah, with his ever-curious nature, approached his guardian. "Ki, where do you go when you visit the city? May I come with you this time?"

Ki Juru Sawah hesitated but saw the determination in the boy’s eyes. Raden Patah had always been eager to see the wider world, and Ki Juru Sawah knew the time had come. "Very well, Raden Patah. But remember, the palace is a place of great power and mystery. You must stay close to me and not wander off."

Excited, Raden Patah accompanied Ki Juru Sawah on the journey. The boy marveled at the bustling city, its towering gates, and the vastness of the palace grounds, all sights he had only heard stories about. Despite his awe, he remembered Ki Juru Sawah’s words and stayed close as they approached the palace. But as Ki Juru Sawah went to deliver a message, Raden Patah’s curiosity took hold. He wandered toward a majestic hall where statues of ancient ancestors and symbols of power decorated the entrance.

Drawn by an unseen force, he entered a grand chamber—a room unlike any he had ever seen. Gold artifacts lined the walls, and a colossal gong stood in the center, exuding an aura of mystique. Compelled by some instinct, Raden Patah reached out and struck the gong.

The sound reverberated throughout the palace, echoing down corridors and alarming everyone inside. The King himself felt the vibration in his chamber and knew instantly that someone extraordinary had struck the gong, an honor only granted to those of royal blood.

"Guards!" the King commanded, his voice filled with urgency. "Find whoever struck that gong and bring them before me!"

The guards rushed to the chamber and found a young boy standing fearlessly beside the gong, his face radiant with a mix of wonder and pride. They brought him before the King, whose expression shifted from anger to curiosity as he beheld the boy.

"Who are you, child?" asked Prabu Brawijaya, his voice softer than before. "And who brought you to this palace?"

Raden Patah looked up at the King, his expression honest and unafraid. "My name is Raden Patah. I came here with my grandfather, Ki Juru Sawah."

The King turned, and as if summoned by fate, Ki Juru Sawah stepped forward, his head bowed low. "Your Majesty," he began, his voice trembling with reverence and a hint of sadness, "this is not merely my grandson. He is your son. His mother, Ratu Mayangsari, bore him in secret and has raised him in the village, hidden from the dangers here."

A profound silence filled the hall as the King gazed at the boy before him, seeing a reflection of his own youth and the features of Ratu Mayangsari in Raden Patah's face. Overcome with emotion, Prabu Brawijaya knelt, his voice breaking with guilt and tenderness. "My son... can you forgive me? I failed to protect your mother and to watch you grow."

In that moment, all barriers dissolved. The King embraced his son, and Raden Patah, feeling the warmth of his father’s presence for the first time, closed his eyes, overwhelmed by an emotion he had never felt before. The King’s promise was simple but resolute: he would not be separated from his son and Ratu Mayangsari ever again.

The palace gates opened to welcome both mother and son. From that day on, Raden Patah grew under his father’s guidance, learning the ways of leadership and wisdom that would one day make him a great man. As he grew, his reputation spread, and he became known throughout the land not only as the King’s son but as a noble and powerful figure destined to lead his people with the courage, compassion, and resilience that defined his heritage.





Moral Message

The story conveys a powerful message about forgiveness, resilience, and destiny. Despite being born in secrecy, Raden Patah’s true heritage and noble spirit eventually reveal themselves. His journey highlights that one's origins do not determine their fate; instead, inner strength, wisdom, and kindness shape one’s path. The King’s acknowledgment of his son also underscores the importance of taking responsibility, while Raden Patah’s acceptance of his father’s apology shows the power of forgiveness, fostering unity and love over bitterness.




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The Curse of Joko Bandung

Kutukan Joko Bandung >> Versi Indonesia

Folklore from Yogyakarta

A long time ago, there were two kingdoms. They were Pengging Kingdom and Prambanan Kingdom. The king were fighting. They were at war! Pengging's king was Joko Bandung. He was very strong and powerful. He had great martial art skill. He led the soldiers and fought bravely.
Meanwhile, Prabu Boko, the king of Prambanan sent a giant to fight against Joko Bandung. The Giants name was Bandawasa.

Bandawasa was very big. Joko Bandung was not afraid with the giant. They were fighting. And finally Joko Bandung won the fight. Before he died, Bandawasa's spirit joined Joko Bandung's spirit. That made Joko Bandung became more powerful. He then added Bandawasa's name into his name. His name changed into Joko Bandung Bandawasa.





Joko Bandung and his soldiers were attacking the palace of Prambanan Kingdom. Joko Bandung was looking for Prabu Boko. He wanted to kill the king of Prambanan Kingdom. Joko Bandung was more powerful. He killed Prabu Boko.

Joko Bandung occupied the palace. He asked all Prabu Boko's family to gather. He met Prabu Boko's beautiful daughter. Her name was Roro Jonggrang. he fell in love with her. He wanted to marry her.

Roro Jonggrang did not want to marry him. She hated Joko Bandung. However she was afraid and did not have any courage to refuse the marriage proposal. She had an idea how to refuse the proposal.

She would ask Joko Bandung to build 1.000 temples only in one night. If he could build the temples, Roro Jonggrang would marry him. Joko Bandung agreed. He accepted the challenge. He was not worried, he would asked the genies and the spirits to help him.

Joko Bandung and his genies started to work. They build the temples one by one. Roro Jonggrang was really worried. She knew Joko Bandung could not finish building 1.000 temples before sun rose.

She was thinking very hard. She had to find a way how to stop the genies and the spirit fro building the temples. Suddenly she had an idea.

She asked all the girls to make a lot of noise by grinding the rice in the mortar. She also asked them to make fire. She hopped that the spirits and the genies would think that sun was going to rise.

It worked! The noise and the fire woke the cocks up. The cocks were crowing. The spirits and the genies thought that morning would come soon.

And they also thought the sun would rise soon. The spirits and the genies were afraid of the sunlight. They left Joko Bandung alone. Joko Bandung was very angry! He knew Roro Jonggrang was plying a trick on him.

"Why did you do that? If you do not want to marry me, why don't you just say it? You are just looking for an excuse to refuse me!" said Joko Bandung.

He continued, "You are so stubborn like a stone. I curse you to become a statue!"

Joko Bandung's magic power had changed Roro Jonggrang into a statue! Since then people named the temples that the spirit and the genies build as Sewu Temple. And the people also named the Prambanan Temple as Roro Jonggrang Temple.***









Moral Message:

The story of Joko Bandung teaches us that power and strength must be accompanied by wisdom and understanding. Joko Bandung's anger and impulsive actions led to the irreversible consequence of turning Roro Jonggrang into stone, demonstrating that reacting with anger can cause harm to others and lead to regret. It emphasizes that true strength lies in patience and the ability to listen to others' feelings and perspectives.




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