The idea of the Naga is widespread in Asia. Yes, origin is Hindu, and from there into Buddhism. It is a Sanscrit word and in Sanscrit it means a being that is in the form of a large snake. There are a number of Nagas, probably most important amongst them is Vasuki or Basuki, who is the essence that binds the earth. In the Gita, Krishna when explaining how he could be everywhere at the same time said that as a serpent he was Vasuki.
To those who are not familiar with Hindu beliefs, it is easily understandable that the Naga can be taken as the dragon and as such as a symbol of China. Cirebon was founded fairly recently, around 1470 or 1480 I think, and as a Muslim state. That the founders of Cirebon took the Naga as a symbol of China is perfectly understandable.
The presence of the Naga image on the keris goes far beyond the simplistic icon of direct relationship. For those with an interest in this I suggest an indepth look at the way in which Hindu beliefs developed in Bali up until the European domination of that island.
In Hindu mythology the Nagas were the enemies of the Garuda.Nagas were subterranean, Garudas flew.Pretty obvious.Possibly of more interest is the fact that the value of winged Naga and a winged elephant is numerologically the same.
The word "naga" itself deserves extended study, as it can be applied in many meanings, depending on the language, place and context.
Regarding the two words "munda" and "kenci".
Is it possible that the word "munda" is in fact "mundhak"--- to become greater? Let us not forget Mr. Jensen's sources; it would be very easy for such a name to arise from these sources, and would be perfectly understandable. In fact, depending on the source involved, it could even be correct, but correct at the time and place of its origin, which is not to say that it would be recognised in present day Jawa.
To somebody unfamiliar with the Javanese language "mundhak" would sound as "munda".
"Kenci" is in fact a legitimate word in Javanese, it is a singkatan ( abbreviation) for "kertu cilik"---"small card", and refers to the small playing cards that are used in dominoes and other card games. However, I sincerely doubt that it has an application in reference to anything at all to do with the keris.
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