Some evidences were found by experts to be used in determining the age or era in which Borobudur Temple was built. Based on the short writings in Sanskrit and in Kawi letters which are carved on the bottom relief, experts suggest that Borobudur Temple was built around 800 A.D.
Such an expert’s opinion turns out to be in line with the historical frame of Indonesia in general and the history of Central Java in particular. The period between the 8th century and the mid of 9th century is known as the golden era of Sailendra Dynasty. This era is marked by the big number of temples built.
A Secret Revealed
The way experts determine the age of Borobudur Temple is is based on the ancient letters or writings which is called Paleography (a science of ancient writings). By comparing the shape of letters on Borobudur Temple and the shape of letters on the inscriptions of which the year number is known , then the age of Borobudur Temple can be revealed.
Rakai Panangkaran was the king who played a major role in the construction of Borobudur Temple. Rakai Panangkaran was the second king of Sanjaya Dynasty who converted himself to Buddhism and whose glory remained during Sailendra Dynasty as a loyal follower of Sang Buddha.
The name of Borobudur. According to Casparis, a Dutch archaeologist, the word Borobudur came from the phrase ” Bhumi Sambhara Budhara”. This is the name of a sanctuary mentioned on the Sri Kahulunan Inscription (824 A.D.). Casparis concluded the sanctuary or monastery mentioned on the Sri Kahulunan Inscription with Borobudur Temple.
Other experts, Poerbatjaraka and Stutterheim suggested that the name Borobudur came from the combination of ” Boro” and ” Budur”. Boro comes from the Sanskrit ” Vihara” which means a complex of temple ( monastery) or a dormitory. While ” Budur” in Balinese has the same meaning as ” Beduhur” which means ”top”. Therefore, the name Borobudur means a dormitory or monastery (complex of temple) which lies on the top of a hill.
Check out my other guide on The Indian Influence in Indonesia
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