The Javanese Twin Mayang Tradition: Definition, Philosophy And Function

Illustration of mayang twins in Javanese tradition (photo: special)

YOGYAKARTA - In marriages held with Javanese customs, there is one element of marriage that is almost never left behind, namely mayang twins.

Kembar Mayang is usually made from young coconut leaves. During the manten meeting, the mayang twins will be touched to the groom's right and left shoulders. Then it will be given to the bride's cantrik. So, what are mayang twins?

Definition of Mayang Twins

Compiled from various sources, Kembar Mayang are two flower arrangements that have the same shape, content and form.

In Javanese, the word 'twin' means the same and 'mayang' means flower. Mayang twins are symbols of ideals, hopes and wills.

Mayang twins in manten decorations are usually manifested in the form of mountains. Janur aka young coconut leaves will be created into various shapes that resemble kris, birds, flowers, snakes, and pinwheels. Uniquely, each of these forms has a deep meaning.

The shape of the kris signifies the authority and spirit of the knight. A groom is expected to be a protector in the household.

The shape of the pinwheel symbolizes the cycle of life. The groom is expected to be able to transform himself in order to fulfill his obligations as a husband.

Next, the shape of the flower has the meaning of meeting. His philosophy is that all disputes in the household should be resolved by meeting, communication and deliberation by both parties.

The snake shape represents the husband's tenacity. A married man must be able to meet all the needs of his wife and children.

Finally, the shape of the bird symbolizes agility and agility in terms of seeking sustenance or a source of livelihood. Both husband and wife must be independent in starting a married life.

The Philosophy of Stuffing Twins Mayang

Kembar Mayang is a series consisting of three elements, namely leaves, leaves and flowers. Each element has its own philosophical meaning.

The elements of the mayang twin leaves consist of:

banyan leaves

This element symbolizes protection, shelter, a comfortable home board. When associated with real life, banyan is a shady tree so it is comfortable to use for shelter.

reed

Reeds have a strong resistance and are difficult to destroy. This means that a household that has been built will not be easily separated by anything.

Leaves nothing

This leaf consists of leaves of cikra-cikri, andong, puring, lancuran, and gold leaf. The leaf is a complement to the others. Nothing leaves mean human life which is not only for eating and drinking, but there are many other needs, both primary and secondary.

Elements of mayang flower leaves

The elements made from coconut leaves in a series of mayang twins are untiran, kris, flower gathering, whip-whip, outer kupat and walang-walangan (grasshoppers). All these elements have their own meaning

Untiran

Untiran symbolizes hope that humans can face challenges in life, both joy and sorrow.

Kris

The keris in the Mayang twins is a warning symbol so that humans are always alert and sharp-minded in order to be able to solve all problems.

Whips

The philosophical meaning of whipping is to remind the bride and groom not to be careless and always have an optimistic nature based on a strong will.

Flower Flower Elements Consists of: Flower Pudak

The shoulder flower or white pandan flower symbolizes purity and hope so that humans have the fragrance of their name and the ability to take care of them.

peacock flower

The peacock flower or potromenggolo flower symbolizes courage and tenderness.

Mayang Twin Function

In marriage, mayang twins signify the release of singleness of a man and a woman. Outside of marriage, mayang twins are a means of connecting humans with their ancestors on big days.

This is information about the Mayang twins. Hopefully it can add to your insight about Javanese customs.