Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung

Historical Origins and Cosmological Philosophy

The historical roots of Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung are inseparable from the ancient manuscript Tantu Panggelaran, dating back to the 15th century. In this text, it is mentioned that Mount Semeru (Mahameru) is the peak of Mount Meru in India that was moved to Java by the gods to anchor the island so it wouldn't shake in the ocean. The base that fell during the journey became the mountain range in Java, while its peak was placed in the east, now known as Mount Semeru.

Literally, the name "Mandara Giri" refers to the mountain used to churn the ocean in Hindu mythology (Samudra Manthana) to obtain the sacred water of life, Amerta. The construction of the temple at this location in the modern era (formally initiated in the 1960s and inaugurated in 1992) is an effort to revive the collective memory of ancestral spirituality that had faded after the fall of Majapahit. The selection of Senduro as the construction site was based on the ancient routes of priests and kings of old when performing the Tirtha Yatra ritual towards the summit of Semeru.

Architecture: A Blend of Majapahit and Balinese Aesthetics

One of the main unique features of Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung lies in its architectural style, which represents a harmonious blend of ancient Javanese (Majapahitan) style and modern Balinese architectural style. The structure of the temple follows the concept of Tri Mandala, which divides the area into three zones of sanctity: Nista Mandala (outer), Madya Mandala (middle), and Utama Mandala (inner/most sacred).

The main gate or Candi Bentar at this temple is built with red bricks without cement, reflecting the glory of Majapahit-era architecture as found at the Trowulan site. Meanwhile, the intricate carvings and statues adorning the inner areas of the temple showcase the skill of Balinese artists. The presence of the towering Padmasana in the Utama Mandala symbolizes the throne of God (Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa) reigning at the highest peak of Mahameru. Natural stone materials were sourced directly from the lava flows of Mount Semeru, creating a strong energetic connection between the building and its surroundings.

Historical Significance and Associated Figures

Historically, the Senduro region in Lumajang has long been known as a "Sacred" area or Sima. In ancient inscriptions, Lumajang is often referred to as a region with special autonomy due to its role in supporting religious activities at the foot of Mount Semeru. Great figures such as Mpu Bharada and Dang Hyang Nirartha are believed to have undertaken spiritual journeys in this area.

The reconstruction of this temple in the 20th century involved important figures from the Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) as well as support from the local government and community. The temple was inaugurated in July 1992 through a grand Panca Wali Krama ceremony. This moment marked the return of Mount Semeru's spiritual function as the "Mother" of all mountains in Java and Bali, making it a meeting point for Hindus from various regions to perform pilgrimages.

Important Events and Religious Rituals

Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung is the center for the implementation of the Pioseman or Piodalan ceremony, which falls on every Purnama Kasa (the first full moon in the Saka calendar). At that time, thousands of devotees from all over Indonesia, especially from Bali, flock to Senduro. This phenomenon creates a unique cultural dynamic, where a exchange of traditions occurs between the local Lumajang community and visitors from Bali.

One of the historical events often commemorated is the collective Mebakti ritual, which involves interfaith elements in Lumajang, demonstrating that this temple is not just for one group, but an icon of peace and tolerance in East Java. The existence of this temple also revives the tradition of local Tumpeng (rice cone) and offerings that share similar roots with rituals in Bali.

Preservation and Current Status

The Lumajang Regency Government has designated Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung as one of its leading religious tourism destinations. Preservation efforts are carried out continuously, both in terms of the physical structures and the surrounding environment. Given its location in a zone prone to Semeru eruptions, the temple's structure is designed to be resistant to seismic vibrations, and coordination with volcanology authorities is always maintained.

Periodic restorations are carried out on the wooden carvings and repainting of the red bricks to maintain their original aesthetics. Furthermore, the area around the temple is now being developed into a center for Hindu-Javanese cultural studies, where researchers and historians frequently visit to study the surviving and evolving remnants of Hindu civilization in East Java.

Importance of Culture and Religiosity

For Hindus, Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung is considered a Pura Kahyangan Jagat, meaning it is a place of universal worship. Its position is considered equal to Pura Besakih in Bali. Culturally, the existence of this temple strengthens the identity of the Tengger people and other local communities around Semeru who still hold fast to ancestral customs.

Another unique aspect worth noting is the fact that this temple stands amidst a predominantly Muslim community. The harmony created in Senduro, where the call to prayer and the temple bells resonate together, is concrete proof that this historical site is a pillar of national unity. Pura Mandara Giri Semeru Agung is not just about stones and buildings, but about human respect for the universe and the search for peace under the shadow of the highest mountain in Java.