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| Dr. Arif Budi Wurianto, M.Si. (Photo: Special). |
The Javanese calendar in 2023 with a traditional calendar system is still being used, especially in Javanese society. The calendar has become part of the archipelago's cultural identity, which is centuries old and has survived amidst modernization. The traditions and local wisdom attached to this calendar have strong historical roots. It was stated by Dr Arif Budi Wurianto, M.Si., as a Literature of Indonesia and Regions lecturer at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM).
"The Javanese calendar cannot be separated from the Hindu-Buddhist kingdom period, especially in the Ancient Mataram Kingdom, Central Java. Moreover, the influence of Hinduism and Buddhism was still very dominant at that time," he explained.
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With the arrival of Islam, the Javanese calendar was acculturated with Islam, creating a unique harmony in every aspect of the calendar. Several month names use Javanese and Islamic terms in the Javanese calendar with month counting.
"For example, the month of Suro in Java is the month of Muharram in Islam, which refers to the Hijri year. In addition, there is the month of Safar, Mulud or Rabiul Awal, Poso or Ramadan, Ba'da, which means Shawwal or Eid and others," said the lecturer known as Arif.
He also said that using the Javanese calendar is not only a time measurement tool. It also reflects the Javanese life philosophy closely related to natural cycles and religious values. Unique traditions such as 'Muludan' in the month of Rabiul Awal show how religion and culture are intertwined in this calendar.
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In addition, the Javanese calendar is often used to determine good or not suitable days for various activities. Starting from agricultural work to traditional ceremonies. Javanese people believe that the success of an endeavour is greatly influenced by harmony with nature and spirituality.
"However, this was influenced by Hinduism and its traditions. For example, there are no offerings in Java because it is a Hindu tradition. However, Javanese people have carried on the tradition. Therefore, when there is a special occasion, they also use offerings," said the head of UMM's Bahasa Indonesia untuk Penutur Asing (BIPA) (trans: Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers) institute.
According to Arif, the Javanese calendar system also includes a week cycle called "Pasaran". There are five days a week: Legi, Pahing, Pon, Wage, and Kliwon. After five days, the week cycle will be repeated.
"This tradition is an undeniable fact that must be preserved. However, adapting this tradition, which reflects the Javanese calendar, is important to individual beliefs. The same goes for the government, which cannot stop it because it is an inseparable part of cultural heritage," he concluded. (lai/wil/put)
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