Learn about epigraphy, the science that reveals the mysteries of inscriptions and ancient relics

TIME.CO, Jakarta – Discovery and translation registration in the archipelago cannot be separated from the role of archaeologists and epigraphers who explore the ancient history of Indonesia. One of them was during the search of the Batujaya bath complex, Karawang, West Java, led by archaeologists and senior epigraphic figures Hasan Djafar and Ayatrohaedi. So what exactly is epigraphy?

Epigraphy is a branch of science archeology. Quoting from publication of Indonesian epigraphy: its role, location and development, This branch of knowledge is used to discover the script, script, language, spelling and affixing contained in the inscription.

The inscription itself is a means of writing stories or signs used by the ancients. Often the inscription was placed on stone, metal plates and even on wood. Besides informing about past events, the inscriptions also explain the origins of a king, figures or genealogy and calendar.

The inscriptions are then differentiated according to the short length of the writing. Likewise with its contents which are classified into inscriptions establishing sima, judicial inscriptions or Jayapatra Jayasong and inscriptions with year numbers.

The science of epigraphy has a scope that discusses inscription media, inscription material, inscription form, and inscription content. In addition to studying the structure of the inscription, read the inscription and interpret the content of the inscription.

Also, epigraphy discusses secret codes in the form of letters and images on ancient inscriptions and artifacts. Then master the ancient letterforms with all their twists and turns to gain clear and valid historical information.

The science of epigraphy also examines inscriptions that have been published in temporary transcripts. The goal is for historians to be able to use the various types of information contained in these inscriptions.

Epigraph, a term for epigraphers, is able to identify and translate inscriptions. As explained by p2k.unkris.ac.id, this is in line with the duties of an epigraphist who must analyze inscriptions with his ability to read ancient scripts, ancient letters and ancient languages.

In carrying out its duties, an epigraph will encounter various obstacles. Especially the stone inscriptions which were worn, making them difficult to read. The epigraphist has to read the well-worn passages over and over again to get the reading right. Including ancient languages ​​on inscriptions that are difficult to fully understand.

Summarize from repository.uksw.edu, the study of epigraphy in Indonesia was introduced by Thomas Stamford Raffles, the British Governor-General in Indonesia in the 19th century. So the basis for Indonesian epigraphy research was compiled by Friederich, which was followed by Western researchers like Hendrich Kern, JLA Brandes, NJ Krom, Bosch and researchers from Indonesia, Poerbatjaraka.

Over time, the study of epigraphy began to broaden and deepen with regard to various historical aspects, both religious, social, economic, legal, and studies that reveal the ancient history of the Indonesian people. This information is then used to find out the history, especially regarding ancient Indonesian history.

In Indonesia, a number of universities open majoring in archeology. There is Gadjah Mada University which has various archeology courses. Reported by arkeologi.ugm.ac.idcourses such as Introduction to Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Architectural Archaeology, Iconography, Ancient Civilizations, Paleoanthropology, Indonesian Epigraphy and many more.

Then Hasanuddin University, famous for maritime archaeology. University of Indonesia offering courses in Public Archaeology, Industrial Archaeology, Art Archeology and Museums.

Then, there is Udayana University which offers courses in prehistoric archeology, classical archeology, museums and epigraphy. Finally, Jambi University is the only university in Sumatra that has an archeology curriculum.

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