The Mythology Behind the Creation of Blambangan Keris and Its Influence on the Creative Industry

Given its meaningful and artistic values, Indonesian keris has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. However, contrary to the values in Indonesian culture, many view keris as a mystical object and even consider it an infidel. Keris manifests power and strengths. This interpretation needs to be restored to preserve the cultural meaning associated with keris. The inquiry on the mythological code/symbol of keris is a follow-up research from previous theses (Myth of Mahesa Sura; Toponymy of the Ancient Nusantara Perspective; and Batik Mythology, Meaning of Code, Function, and Strengthening of its Industry (Oral Tradition Perspective), which points to the relevance of mythological symbols in batik and keris. The present study highlights the critical role of triangulating findings about the power of ancient kings manifested in the Blambangan keris. It aims to disseminate findings on (1) the mythology of the creation of Blambangan keris, (2) the meaning embedded in the Blambangan keris motifs, and (3) the function of keris in Blambangan tradition, from the Indonesian oral tradition lens. This study was conducted using a qualitative-critical ethnographic design with a multi-interdisciplinary approach covering mythology, toponymy, semiotics, linguistics, archeology, and arts. Data were garnered through (a) documentation, (b) observation, (c) free-in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed usingcritical ethnography theory coupled with interactive flow model analysis with modifications. This study portrayed a comprehensive narrative about the mythology of the kings in Indonesia based on existing cultural products, especially keris. It corroborates previous studies noting that the symbols on the Blambangan keris indicate that Medang Kawulan existed and that Blambangan was established in Jember region, East Java. Keris mythology can inform the development learning resources and the Indonesian keris industry. This becomes increasingly crucial as keris has experienced economic secularization (profane) into freely traded goods such as replicas, displays, ornaments, and merchandise, leading to the segregation between keris and family/ancestor/lineage symbols.