A personal keris is representative of its custodian. Such a keris is not displayed publicly. It is not removed from its wrongko to satisfy the curiosity of others.
A family keris (pusaka) is representative of its previous custodians and of the extended family, both past and present. Such a keris is a family heirloom and is kept within the family.
The profane keris in its role as a curiosity, a collectable, a store of wealth, an art work is in spite of its profane nature still symbolic of the Gunungan, which is linked to ancestor worship and the Gods.
Is it fitting to perform parlour tricks with such a powerful cultural symbol?
The major problem here is that we have several generations of people living in keris bearing cultures who have become disconnected from the traditional values and knowledge of their own cultures.
They know not what they do.
It is simply not possible to understand anything about the keris unless one has an understanding of the culture and society first.
Regrettably many people living in societies across the world have lost touch with their ancestors.
|