Temple de Tingkip

The Tingkip Temple sits at Simpang Subur, Sungaijauh village, sub district of Rawas Ulu, Musirawas district, the province of South Sumatra, Indonesia. It is thought that the temple was found in the 9^th or 10^th century, built by Buddhists as there are some Buddhist statues inside. Standing on about 100 meters south side of Tingkip River, if it is seen from downstream, the temple locates at the left side of the river and faces to east. Almost all of the temple‘s areas are surrounded by the Tingkip River and its tributaries. Some historians believe that in the time of the temple establishment, both Buddhists and Hindus were living harmoniously in the area.

As it was built nearby the river, the temple was constructed like a barrage with the wall resembling precipice. The temple building was constructed thoroughly based on the surrounding natural resources, especially the water. Furthermore, it has sophisticated sense assisting the unity of both microcosm and macrocosm. Since it is close to the river, the worshipers could easily take the water for conducting religious rites.

The temple‘s square plan is not similar with its building that merely has one shape. It is left open, uncovered by room like other temples in Sumatra and Java. The influence of Buddha was clearly seen through Kumbha‘s profile written on two piles of brick, and Padma‘s profile carved on three piles of brick.

Both location and position of the temple are chosen to be similar to that of Meru Mountain (the mythical mountain). The surrounding rivers of the temple symbolizes ocean surrounding the Meru Mountain.

Additionally, the temple structure has many similarities with that of the Buddhist temples in Central Java. Its architecture features elements such as a stage at the entrance (at east side) and bell is known as the Javanese temples design. Furthermore, the two profiles mentioned above are the result of profound influence of the Javanese temples.                          

References :

• Siregar, Sondang, M. “Situs-situs Klasik di Sumatera Selatan (Gambaran Perkembangan Agama)”, www.balarpalembang .go.id.
• Marhaeni, Tri. “Candi Tingkip di Kabupaten Musirawas Provinsi Sumatera Selatan: Sebuah Sumbangan Penelitian Arkeologis”, www.balarpalembang.go.id.

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