The Glory and Fall of Majapahit That Changed the History of the Archipelago

Source: Source/Illustration jejaknesia.com

www.jejaknesia.com - The Majapahit Kingdom was established in the 13th century, precisely in 1293 AD, following the successful defeat of the Mongol forces by Raden Wijaya who had invaded Java. From this point, a great kingdom, later known as the unifier of the Archipelago, began to be built.

The Golden Era of Majapahit

Gajah Mada and the Palapa Oath

Majapahit's golden era reached its peak under the reign of King Hayam Wuruk (1350–1389 AD), with Prime Minister Gajah Mada as the central figure. Gajah Mada was famous for his Palapa Oath, a sacred vow to unite the entire Archipelago. His ambition was not mere words but a brilliant strategy encompassing military, political, and diplomatic measures.

Economic and Trade Advancements

Majapahit was not only militarily strong but also excelled in trade. Its strategic location made it a hub for international commerce. Spices, gold, cotton, and rice were primary commodities linking the Archipelago with India, China, and even the Middle East. Major ports such as Tuban and Gresik witnessed the kingdom's economic prosperity.

Culture and Arts

In culture, Majapahit produced monumental literary works like Nagarakretagama by Mpu Prapanca and Sutasoma by Mpu Tantular, from which the famous motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika originated. Architectural arts also flourished, evident in grand temples such as Candi Tikus, Candi Bajang Ratu, and other heritage sites.

The Roots of Majapahit's Decline

Internal Power Struggles

Like other great kingdoms, Majapahit faced internal issues. After the death of Hayam Wuruk, a succession struggle within the royal family triggered divisions. These disputes weakened Majapahit's political foundation.

External Pressure

Simultaneously, Islamic kingdoms began to rise along the northern coast of Java. The Demak Kingdom became one of the emerging powers, gradually limiting Majapahit's influence. The wave of Islamization introduced new social and political dynamics, accelerating the kingdom's decline.

Economic Downturn

As the central government weakened, the trade routes previously controlled by Majapahit gradually came under coastal kingdoms. The economic glory dimmed, and Majapahit lost its prominence as an international trade center.

The Fall of Majapahit

Around the 16th century, Majapahit officially fell, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest kingdoms in the Archipelago. Its fall was not the end but rather the dawn of a new era in Indonesian history. The values of unity, diversity, and greatness inherited from Majapahit continue to live on today.

Enduring Legacy of Majapahit

Even today, we can witness Majapahit's legacy through statues, temples, and traditions passed down through generations. More importantly, Majapahit's most valuable heritage is the spirit of unity, now embodied in Indonesia's national motto: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.

Brief Chronology of the Majapahit Kingdom

To understand Majapahit's long journey, here is a brief chronology:

Majapahit Territorial Map

Historical facts according to Nagarakretagama (1365) and historians' research:

• The core region of Majapahit was in East Java (Trowulan).
• The conquered/influenced territories extended over almost all of Java, Bali, Madura, eastern Sumatra, western and southern Borneo, Sulawesi, Maluku, up to the Malay Peninsula. However, this control was more hegemony and tributary-based (tribute and political relations), not direct governance like a modern state.

Source: Source/Interpretative reconstruction jejaknesia.com

• Core zone (East Java) marked in dark red.
• Direct control zone (Java, Bali, Madura) marked in red.
• Influence/tributary zone (Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, Maluku, Malay Peninsula, Nusa Tenggara) marked in pink/orange.

The story of Majapahit's rise and fall teaches us that glory does not come effortlessly; it is the result of hard work, visionary leadership, and the unity of the people. Yet, greatness can also crumble if internal conflicts are ignored and balance is neglected. May the spirit of Majapahit serve as a reflection for all of us to build a stronger, just, and sovereign nation.

References

• Ricklefs, M.C. (2008). Modern History of Indonesia 1200–2008. Jakarta: Serambi Ilmu Semesta.
• Coedès, George (1968). The Indianized States of Southeast Asia. University of Hawaii Press.
• Kerajaan Majapahit – Ensiklopedia Nasional Indonesia. (Online)
• Direktorat Jenderal Kebudayaan, Kemendikbud RI. (Online)