Abstract
This paper explores the profound meaning of the main stupa at Candi Borobudur and analyzes the implications of the proposed catra installation on the monument’s spiritual and cultural values. The interpretation is based on a post-processual perspective that emphasizes the importance of considering context, internal evidence, and internal symbolic relationships rather than seeking externally sourced validation. Through a combination of literature study, observation, and comparative analysis of stupas at Borobudur itself, contemporary Buddhist candis in Central Java, and various types of stupas abroad, this research concludes that the proposal for catra installation on the main stupa of Borobudur lacks a strong foundation both archaeologically and philosophically and does not contribute to the appreciation of spiritual values. The main stupa represents the pinnacle of the highest spiritual realization: the Buddha’s awakened mind (Dharmakaya). This ultimate meaning transcends other conventional symbolisms. This study underscores the importance of a contextual and comprehensive understanding of Borobudur, encompassing cultural, spiritual, and preservation aspects. This, in turn, has implications for the effectiveness of interpretation, conservation, and more sustainable development strategies for Borobudur and other Buddhist candi sites.
Bahasa Abstract
Tulisan ini mengungkap makna mendalam dari stupa induk Candi Borobudur serta menganalisis implikasi dari usulan pemasangan catra terhadap nilai spiritual dan budaya monumen tersebut. Pemaknaan didasari perspektif pascaprosesual yang menekankan pentingnya memperhatikan konteks, bukti-bukti internal, dan hubungan simbolik internal daripada mencari validasi yang bersumber eksternal. Melalui gabungan studi literatur, observasi, serta analisis komparatif terhadap stupa-stupa pada Borobudur sendiri, candi-candi Buddhis sezaman di Jawa Tengah, dan berbagai jenis stupa di luar negeri, penelitian ini menyimpulkan usulan pemasangan catra pada stupa induk Borobudur tidak memiliki dasar yang kuat baik dari segi arkeologi maupun filosofi dan tidak berkontribusi terhadap penghayatan nilai spiritual. Stupa induk merepresentasikan puncak realisasi spiritual tertinggi: kesadaran Buddha yang sempurna (Dharmakaya). Pemaknaan ultima demikian melampaui simbolisme-simbolisme konvensional lainnya. Kajian ini menggarisbawahi pentingnya pemahaman kontekstual dan komprehensif mengenai Borobudur, mencakup aspek budaya, nilai spiritual, dan upaya pelestarian. Hal ini pada gilirannya berimplikasi terhadap efektivitas interpretasi, konservasi, dan strategi pengembangan yang lebih berkelanjutan bagi Borobudur maupun candi-candi Buddha lainnya.
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Recommended Citation
LEE, So Tju Shinta, and Salim LEE. 2025. POLEMIK CATRA PADA STUPA INDUK CANDI BOROBUDUR: KAJIAN ARKEOLOGI DAN FILOSOFIS. Paradigma: Jurnal Kajian Budaya 15, no. 1 (April). 10.17510/paradigma.v15i1.1710.
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