Story Summary
Explore the Legend of Tangkuban Perahu, a tragic Sundanese tale of a son’s forbidden love and the mythical origins of West Java's famous overturned boat mountain.
In the ancient kingdom of West Java, Princess Dayang Sumbi lived in exile with her faithful dog, Tumang—a cursed god and her secret husband. Their son, Sangkuriang, grew into a powerful hunter. One day, unable to find prey, Sangkuriang killed Tumang and brought his heart to his mother. Upon learning the truth, a grief-stricken Dayang Sumbi struck Sangkuriang, leaving a permanent scar on his head, and banished him. Years later, Sangkuriang returned as a powerful warrior and fell in love with a beautiful woman, not realizing she was his mother, who had been granted eternal youth. Recognizing the scar on his head, Dayang Sumbi attempted to stop the marriage by setting an impossible task: he must dam the Citarum River and build a massive boat before dawn. Sangkuriang summoned spirits to complete the work, but Dayang Sumbi used a red cloth and faked the sunrise. Enraged by the deception, Sangkuriang kicked the unfinished boat away, and it landed upside down, transforming into the mountain known today as Tangkuban Perahu.
The Moral
Deception and uncontrolled anger lead to ruin, and one cannot escape the consequences of their past actions or the laws of nature.
“I will build a lake and a ship in a single night to prove my love, even if the spirits themselves must serve me.”
Fun Fact
The mountain Tangkuban Perahu is actually an active volcano, and its last major eruption was in 2019, reminding locals of the fiery temperament of the legend's protagonist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Legend of Tangkuban Perahu?
The story teaches that actions have consequences and that uncontrolled anger can lead to destruction. It also emphasizes the importance of honesty and respecting the natural order of life.
What does Tangkuban Perahu mean?
The name translates to 'overturned boat' in the Sundanese language. This refers to the mountain's unique shape, which looks like a capsized vessel from a distance.
Why did Sangkuriang want to marry Dayang Sumbi?
After years of wandering, Sangkuriang did not recognize her as his mother. Dayang Sumbi had been granted eternal youth by the gods, so she still appeared as a young, beautiful woman when they met again.
How did Dayang Sumbi stop the wedding?
She set an impossible challenge to build a lake and a boat in one night. When she saw he was succeeding with the help of spirits, she waved a red silk cloth to mimic dawn, tricking the roosters into crowing early.
Who was Tumang in the legend?
Tumang was a cursed god who lived in the form of a dog. He was the secret husband of Dayang Sumbi and the biological father of Sangkuriang, though Sangkuriang did not know this when he killed him.
Where is Tangkuban Perahu located?
Tangkuban Perahu is a real, active stratovolcano located 30 kilometers north of Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. It is a popular tourist destination known for its massive craters and hot springs.