Imagine a night filled with mystical allure, cultural richness, and deep spiritual significance. Welcome to Satu Suro, the first night of the month of Muharram, marking the Islamic New Year. Celebrated with great fervor in Yogyakarta and Surakarta, this night holds a special place in the hearts of the Javanese people.
As the evening sets in, the streets around the Surakarta Palace become a sea of people eagerly awaiting the grand procession. The highlight of the night, the majestic white buffalo or “kebo bule,” revered by the locals, is brought out in a ceremonial parade. This is Satu Suro, a night believed to be both sacred and mystical, filled with blessings and reverence.
The Historical Roots of Satu Suro
The origins of this tradition date back to the reign of Sultan Agung, who aimed to unify the Hindu Saka calendar with the Islamic Hijri calendar, creating the Javanese calendar. This unification began on a significant Friday in the year 1555 Saka, or July 8, 1633 AD. The first day of the Javanese month Suro, coinciding with the 1st of Muharram, thus became a monumental day.
The term “Suro” is derived from “Asyura,” an Arabic word meaning “ten,” referring to the 10th day of Muharram, commemorating the martyrdom of Sayyidina Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in Karbala.
Satu Suro Traditions and Rituals
Each year, the Javanese people honor Satu Suro with various customs and ceremonies. From Jamas pusaka (cleaning sacred heirlooms) to ruwatan (ritual cleansing), and tapa brata (meditation and fasting), the traditions are as diverse as they are profound.
At the Surakarta Palace, the celebrations include a grand procession where palace attendants carry offerings and sacred objects. This event is not just a cultural spectacle but a spiritual journey for many.
According to Dian Uswatina’s thesis, the Satu Suro commemoration in Surakarta involves gratitude, contemplation, and drawing closer to God, centered around the Pujasana Mosque. In 1973, President Soeharto requested that the celebration be extended beyond the palace walls, leading to the inclusion of the revered white buffalo in the procession, which has since become a beloved tradition.
The Mystical White Buffalo
The white buffalo, or “kebo bule,” is a significant symbol in the Satu Suro procession. Its ancestors were a gift from Kyai Hasan Besari of Tegalsari Ponorogo to Sultan Paku Buwono II. Today, it leads the ceremonial march, and its presence is believed to bring blessings and protection.
Unique Celebrations in Yogyakarta
In contrast to Surakarta, Yogyakarta’s Satu Suro celebrations often feature the procession of sacred keris (daggers) and other heirlooms. The night emphasizes inner peace and safety, with prayers and rituals aimed at warding off misfortune.
A Time for Reflection and Vigilance
Throughout the month of Suro, the Javanese are reminded to stay vigilant and mindful. Practices like “laku prihatin,” which involves staying awake all night, watching wayang performances, and attending cultural events, are common. The ethos of “eling” (remembering) and “waspada” (being alert) permeates the month, encouraging people to stay grounded and aware of their spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
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