Klenteng Jin De Yuan (Vihara Dharma Bhakti)

Origins and Establishment: From Kim Tek Ie to Dharma Bhakti

The history of Klenteng Jin De Yuan began in 1650. This klenteng was founded by a Chinese Lieutenant named Kwee Hoen (Kwee Hoen Ko) under the auspices of the Dutch colonial authorities (VOC). In its early days, this place of worship was named Kwan Im Teng, referring to the pavilion for worshipping Goddess Kwan Im (Goddess of Mercy). The term "Kwan Im Teng" was later absorbed into Indonesian as the term "Klenteng" to refer to places of worship for the Chinese community in general.

The name Jin De Yuan (or Kim Tek Ie in Hokkian dialect), meaning "Golden Virtue Temple," began to be widely used after reconstruction following a major tragedy. This name reflects the philosophy that human virtue is far more valuable than gold, a moral reminder for the Chinese merchant community residing around it.

Architecture and Construction Details: Symbolism in Structure

Architecturally, Klenteng Jin De Yuan is a pure representation of Southern Chinese architectural style, particularly Fujian/Hokkien style. Its main characteristic lies in the sharply curved roof adorned with a pair of dragons fighting over a pearl at the ridge's peak, symbolizing protection and positive energy.

The main building is dominated by red and gold, two colors that in Chinese cosmology symbolize luck, happiness, and glory. At the front, there are a pair of stone lions (Shi Shi) that function as spiritual guardians. The interior of the klenteng is filled with intricate wood carvings on the supporting columns (tou-kung) and gold-plated altars. One of its construction unique features is the use of traditional wooden joinery techniques without nails, allowing the building to remain flexible against vibrations.

The Bloody Events of 1740 and Revival

One of the darkest chapters in Jin De Yuan's history is the Chinezenmoord or Angke Massacre in 1740. In a mass riot triggered by economic and political tensions between the VOC and the Chinese residents, this klenteng was burned to the ground. Thousands of Chinese residents died in this event.

However, in 1755, a Chinese Kapitan named Oei Tjhie once again initiated the total restoration of this klenteng. The revival of Jin De Yuan became a symbol of the resilience of the Chinese community in Batavia. The building that stood until the early 21st century is largely the result of the 1755 reconstruction, making it one of the oldest buildings in Jakarta that still retains its original form.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Jin De Yuan functions as the "Central Klenteng" or the mother of other klentengs in Batavia. Traditionally, this klenteng was managed by a Kong Koan council (Chinese Administrative Board) appointed by the colonial government. This indicates Jin De Yuan's position as not only religiously important but also administratively and socially significant.

Inside this building, there are a dozen altars dedicated to various deities. The main altar is occupied by Goddess Kwan Im, but there are also worships for the Earth God (Tu Di Gong) and the God of Commerce (Xuan Tian Shang Di). The diversity of these altars shows the inclusive nature of the klenteng, serving various spiritual needs of the community, from safety and health to success in business.

Important Figures and Social Role

Besides Kapitan Oei Tjhie, many prominent Chinese community figures (Luitenants, Kapiteins, and Majoors der Chinezen) made significant contributions to the klenteng's continuity. In the past, Jin De Yuan also served as a center for social assistance. Around the klenteng, there was a tradition of giving alms to the less fortunate, a practice that continues to this day, especially before the Lunar New Year or Cap Go Meh celebrations.

The 2015 Fire and Modern Restoration Efforts

A severe trial befell Jin De Yuan again on March 2, 2015, when a fierce fire engulfed the main building due to sparks from a large candle. This fire destroyed a large part of the ancient wooden structure and damaged many centuries-old deity statues. However, the most sacred statue of Goddess Kwan Im was successfully saved from the flames.

Following the fire, restoration efforts focused on returning the building to its original form using similar materials. This restoration process involved cultural heritage experts to ensure that historical elements were not lost. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has designated this site as a Cultural Heritage Building, so every repair step must follow strict historical preservation guidelines.

Preservation Status and Unique Value

As part of the Glodok Cultural Heritage Area, Klenteng Jin De Yuan is now a major historical tourist destination in Jakarta. The uniqueness of this klenteng lies in the presence of remaining historical artifacts, such as an ancient bronze bell made in 1825 and various stone inscriptions recording the building's renovation history.

Sociologically, Jin De Yuan is a center of integration. Although it is a place of worship for the Chinese ethnic group, its existence is integrated with the heterogeneous ecosystem of the Glodok market. This klenteng is a tangible proof of pluralism in Jakarta, where ancient traditions from mainland China have successfully adapted and taken root in Betawi land for over three and a half centuries.

By visiting Klenteng Jin De Yuan, one not only sees an old building but also delves into a long narrative of perseverance, faith, and the long history of shaping the identity of the Chinese-Indonesian community in Jakarta. Its existence remains a cultural beacon reminding future generations of the importance of preserving the heritage of the past amidst the increasingly rapid tide of modernization.