Kajian Historis Pegon: Dari Masa Klasik hingga Modern

Pegon, a unique script derived from the Arabic alphabet, holds a significant place in the history of Indonesian literature and culture. This script, used to write the Malay language, has played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting knowledge, religious texts, and literary works for centuries. This article delves into the historical journey of Pegon, exploring its evolution from the classical era to the modern period, highlighting its enduring legacy and its impact on the Indonesian language and society.

The Genesis of Pegon: A Script for the Malay Language

The origins of Pegon can be traced back to the 14th century, during the flourishing of Islamic influence in the Malay archipelago. As Islam spread, the need for a script to write the Malay language became increasingly apparent. The Arabic alphabet, already familiar to Muslim scholars and traders, was adopted and adapted to accommodate the sounds of Malay. This adaptation gave birth to Pegon, a script that would become synonymous with Islamic literature and culture in the region.

Pegon in the Classical Era: A Vehicle for Religious and Literary Expression

The classical era of Pegon, spanning from the 14th to the 19th centuries, witnessed a remarkable surge in its use. During this period, Pegon became the primary script for writing religious texts, including translations of the Quran, Islamic commentaries, and works of Islamic jurisprudence. It also served as a medium for literary expression, with poets, storytellers, and scholars using Pegon to compose poems, epics, and historical chronicles. Notable examples include the Hikayat Amir Hamzah, a Malay epic written in Pegon, and the Sejarah Melayu, a chronicle of Malay history.

Pegon in the Modern Era: Adapting to Change and Facing Challenges

The arrival of the Dutch colonial era in the 19th century brought about significant changes in the use of Pegon. The Dutch, seeking to promote their own language and culture, discouraged the use of Pegon and favored the Latin script. This policy, coupled with the rise of modern education and the adoption of the Latin script for official purposes, led to a decline in the use of Pegon. However, Pegon continued to be used in certain communities, particularly in religious circles and among traditional scholars.

The Enduring Legacy of Pegon: A Cultural Heritage

Despite the challenges it faced, Pegon has left an enduring legacy on Indonesian culture and language. It played a vital role in preserving and transmitting Islamic knowledge and literature, shaping the literary landscape of the Malay archipelago. The use of Pegon in religious texts and traditional literature has influenced the vocabulary and grammar of the Indonesian language, enriching its linguistic diversity. Moreover, Pegon continues to be studied and appreciated by scholars and enthusiasts, who recognize its historical significance and its contribution to the cultural heritage of Indonesia.

Conclusion

The historical journey of Pegon, from its origins in the 14th century to its continued presence in modern Indonesia, is a testament to its resilience and its enduring impact on the country's cultural landscape. As a script that has served as a vehicle for religious expression, literary creativity, and the preservation of knowledge, Pegon holds a unique place in the history of Indonesian literature and culture. Its legacy continues to inspire scholars, writers, and artists, reminding them of the rich and diverse heritage of the Indonesian language and its connection to the wider Islamic world.