Boen Tek Bio Temple

Traces of Chinese Civilization in Benteng: The History and Grandeur of Boen Tek Bio Temple

Boen Tek Bio Temple is a historical gem located in the heart of the Pasar Lama area, Tangerang City, Banten. As one of the oldest places of worship in the Tangerang region, this temple is more than just a religious building; it is a silent witness to the crystallization of the culture of the "Cina Benteng" (Benteng Chinese) community who have settled on the banks of the Cisadane River for centuries. The name "Boen Tek Bio" itself carries a deep philosophical meaning: Boen means literature, Tek means virtue, and Bio means place of worship. Collectively, it symbolizes a place to cultivate virtue through knowledge and spirituality.

#

Origins and Founding Period

The historical roots of Boen Tek Bio Temple stretch back to the 17th century. According to historical records and local oral traditions, the temple was founded in 1684 by the Chinese community association in Tangerang. Its existence is closely linked to the arrival of Chinese migrants who landed in Teluk Naga in 1407 under the leadership of Chen Ci Lung.

The establishment of this temple occurred during a period when the influence of the Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC) began to strengthen in the Banten and Batavia regions. Its location on the east side of the Cisadane River was chosen due to its strategic position as a major trade route at that time. Initially, the building was just a simple structure made of bamboo and nipa palm roofing, before eventually undergoing extensive renovations to become a permanent building in line with the economic prosperity of the Chinese community in the area.

#

Architecture and Construction Details

Architecturally, Boen Tek Bio Temple displays a strong Southern Chinese traditional style, particularly influenced by Fujian province. One of its prominent features is the saddle-shaped roof with upward-curving ends known as the Yanwei (swallowtail) style. At the apex of the roof, a pair of dragons flank a flaming pearl, a symbol of protection and harmony.

Upon entering the main gate, visitors are greeted by a pair of stone lion statues (Cishi) symbolizing the guardians of the sanctity of the place of worship. The entire structure of the building is dominated by red and gold colors—red symbolizing happiness, while gold symbolizes glory. Inside the main hall, there are sturdy wooden support pillars adorned with Chinese calligraphy carvings containing moral teachings.

Another uniqueness lies in its ceramic floor that still retains its ancient aesthetic, as well as the large bell (Genta) and drum used in religious ceremonies. The wooden construction details on the ceiling utilize the tou-kung technique, a traditional interlocking wooden system without nails that allows the building to remain flexible yet sturdy against earthquake vibrations.

#

Historical Significance and Important Events

Boen Tek Bio Temple records important history in the development of the identity of the Cina Benteng community. The term "Cina Benteng" itself emerged due to the proximity of their settlements to the Dutch defense fort (Fort Makassar) that once stood on the banks of the Cisadane. This temple served as a center for social integration, where Chinese traditions blended with the local Tangerang culture.

One of the most monumental historical events is the Gotong Toapekong ceremony, held once every 12 years (Dragon Year). This tradition has been practiced since the 19th century and involves parading deity statues around the city. This event is not only a religious ritual but also a moment where people from various ethnic backgrounds gather, demonstrating a high level of tolerance in Tangerang since the colonial era.

#

Related Figures and Periods

Although records of specific architects are not individually documented, the existence of this temple is inseparable from the role of the Chinese community leaders or Kapitein der Chinezen in Tangerang. In the 19th century, figures from the Oey and Lim families are recorded as having made significant contributions to the temple's renovation funding.

During the Japanese occupation and the Indonesian independence revolution, Boen Tek Bio served as a refuge for civilians. The temple became a symbol of community resilience amidst the political turmoil that swept through the Dutch East Indies until it became Indonesia.

#

Religious and Cultural Functions

Boen Tek Bio is a Tridharma temple, serving followers of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The main altar is dedicated to Kwan Im Hud Zu (Goddess of Mercy). Additionally, there are altars for Kwan Kong (God of Justice) and Thian Siang Seng Bo (Goddess of the Sea), reflecting their ancestors' background as seafarers.

Culturally, this temple is a preserver of unique arts such as Cokek (a traditional dance blending Chinese and Betawi elements) and Gambang Kromong music. This is where cultural acculturation is vividly evident, with Chinese musical instruments like the Tehyan synergizing with local instruments.

#

Preservation and Restoration Status

In 1904, Boen Tek Bio Temple underwent a major renovation that gave it the form of the building we see today. All building materials, including tiles and some wooden pillars, were imported directly from China. The Indonesian government, through the Cultural Heritage Law, has designated Boen Tek Bio Temple as a Cultural Heritage Building.

Restoration efforts are carried out with great care to preserve the authenticity of its materials. The temple foundation regularly undertakes repainting using natural dyes and ensures that any damaged parts are replaced with similar materials so that its historical value is not diminished. The last restoration of the roof and dragon ornaments involved specialized craftsmen who understand the principles of ancient Chinese architecture.

#

Unique Facts and Heritage

One rarely known fact is that Boen Tek Bio has a spiritual connection with Boen San Bio Temple and Boen Hay Bio Temple in Tangerang. These three form a "Trinity" of old temples guarding the Tangerang region from various cardinal directions. Furthermore, the ancient bell inside the temple was a donation from a Dutch colonial official as a form of respect for the local Chinese community, a rare testament to official recognition at that time.

To this day, Boen Tek Bio Temple stands tall amidst the modernization of Tangerang City. It is not merely a static museum but a living institution, continuing to fulfill its function as a moral guardian, cultural center, and symbol of inter-religious harmony in Banten Province. Its existence reminds us that Indonesia's history is shaped by the interwoven threads of various ethnicities strengthening each other over time.