Kedung: Simbol Kehidupan dan Kematian dalam Sastra Jawa
The rich tapestry of Javanese literature is replete with symbols and metaphors, each carrying profound meanings and insights into the Javanese worldview. Among these symbols, the concept of 'Kedung,' a Javanese term for a deep pool of water, stands out as a potent symbol of life and death. This article delves into the intricate symbolism of Kedung in Javanese literature, exploring its multifaceted implications and the cultural insights it offers.
Kedung: A Symbol of Life
In Javanese literature, Kedung is often depicted as a source of life. It is seen as a nurturing entity, providing water, a fundamental element for survival. The Kedung, with its calm and serene surface, symbolizes peace and tranquility, reflecting the Javanese ideal of a harmonious life. It is also associated with fertility and abundance, as the water from the Kedung irrigates the fields, enabling the growth of crops and sustaining life.
The Kedung's life-giving aspect is often highlighted in Javanese folktales and myths. For instance, in the legend of Ratu Kidul, the queen of the Southern Sea, the Kedung is portrayed as a magical pool where the queen rejuvenates herself, thus symbolizing renewal and the cyclical nature of life.
Kedung: A Symbol of Death
Contrary to its life-giving aspect, the Kedung also symbolizes death in Javanese literature. The depth of the Kedung, often unknown and mysterious, represents the unknown realm of death. It is seen as a gateway to the underworld, a place where spirits dwell. The Kedung's murky depths, where light fails to penetrate, symbolize the darkness of death and the fear associated with it.
In Javanese myths and folktales, the Kedung is often the site of tragic events, such as drownings and suicides, further reinforcing its association with death. The Kedung, in this context, serves as a metaphor for the finality of death, the end of life's journey.
The Duality of Kedung: Life and Death
The dual symbolism of the Kedung, representing both life and death, reflects the Javanese understanding of the cyclical nature of existence. Life and death are seen not as opposing forces, but as interconnected aspects of the same cycle. The Kedung, with its capacity to nurture life and its association with death, embodies this cyclical worldview.
This duality is often explored in Javanese literature through narratives that depict characters' interactions with the Kedung. These narratives highlight the delicate balance between life and death, and the constant interplay between these two fundamental aspects of existence.
In conclusion, the Kedung, as a symbol in Javanese literature, offers a profound understanding of the Javanese worldview. It encapsulates the Javanese perception of life and death as interconnected aspects of existence, reflecting the cyclical nature of life. Through its dual symbolism, the Kedung serves as a powerful metaphor, providing insights into the cultural and philosophical underpinnings of Javanese society.