What is the Old Sundanese script, and when was it used?

The Old Sundanese script is a writing system that developed in West Java between the 14th and 18th centuries. It was originally used to write the Old Sundanese language and is a modified form of the Pallava script, which itself is an ancient Indian script.

What is the origin and lineage of the Old Sundanese script?

The Old Sundanese script is a development of the Pallava script, an ancient Indian script. Its lineage traces back through Proto-Sinaitic, Phoenician, Aramaic, Brahmi, and Old Kawi scripts, eventually evolving into its distinct form by the 16th century, particularly in lontar texts.

What languages were written using the Old Sundanese script?

The Old Sundanese script was primarily used to write the Old Sundanese language. It was also used for the Cirebonese language, indicating its regional significance beyond just one language.

Where are the earliest examples of the Old Sundanese script found?

The earliest known examples of the Old Sundanese script are found in inscriptions. These include those at Astana Gede in Kawali District, Ciamis Regency, and the Kebantenan Inscription in Jatiasih District, Bekasi City.

How did the expansion of the Mataram Sultanate affect the use of the Old Sundanese script?

According to Edi S. Ekajati, the expansion of the Mataram Sultanate into the Priangan region led to the gradual displacement of the Old Sundanese script. This was part of a broader cultural shift where Javanese culture became a model, leading to the adoption of Javanese writings and icons by many Sundanese.

What was the cultural impact of the Mataram Sultanate's expansion on Sundanese writers?

During the Mataram Sultanate's expansion, Sundanese conquerors adopted Javanese culture as their ideal, which resulted in the displacement of Sundanese culture. Consequently, many Sundanese writers and cultural observers began using Javanese writings and icons.

What is the typical medium for manuscripts written in the Old Sundanese script?

Manuscripts written using the Old Sundanese script are typically found on palm leaves. The writing was traditionally done by scratching the text onto the leaves with a knife.

Can you list some significant manuscripts written in the Old Sundanese script?

Several important manuscripts were written using the Old Sundanese script, including Bujangga Manik, Sewaka Darma, Carita Ratu Pakuan, Carita Parahyangan, Carita Parahyangan Fragment, and Carita Waruga Guru.

Where does K. F. Holle's 1882 work, 'Tabel van Oud en Nieuw Indische Alphabetten,' feature the Old Sundanese script?

Old Sundanese script is documented in K. F. Holle's 1882 publication, 'Tabel van Oud en Nieuw Indische Alphabetten,' specifically within columns 89 through 92 of the table.

Which letters from the Kawi script were omitted in the Old Sundanese script?

The Old Sundanese script did not retain certain consonants from the Kawi script, such as kha, gha, cha, jha, and cerebral versions of ḍa, ḍha, ṇa, ṣa, śa. It also omitted vowel letters like long ā, ī, ū, and long ṝ, and ṝ.

How does the Standard Sundanese script differ from the Old Sundanese script?

The Standard Sundanese script is a modified version of the Old Sundanese script, adapted for contemporary use. These modifications include adding letters (like 'va' and 'fa'), reducing letters (like 're pepet' and 'le pepet'), and changing the shapes of certain letters (such as 'na' and 'ma').

How many documented models of the Old Sundanese script are available for digitization?

There are at least two well-documented models of the Old Sundanese script that have been digitized and made into fonts: the Carita Ratu Pakuan's Model (CRP) and the Kawali's Model.

What is the Carita Ratu Pakuan's (CRP) Model, and what is its significance?

The Carita Ratu Pakuan's (CRP) Model is one of the two primary documented versions of the Old Sundanese script. It is often used as a representative example of the entire Old Sundanese script and is derived from the manuscript titled *Carita Ratu Pakuan*.

What is the approximate time period associated with the CRP Sundanese script model?

The CRP Sundanese script model is associated with approximately the 18th century.

Who authored the *Carita Ratu Pakuan* manuscript, and where is it currently located?

The *Carita Ratu Pakuan* manuscript was written by Kai Raga and is currently housed in the Sri Baduga Museum in Bandung, Indonesia.

Who was Kai Raga, and where did he reside?

Kai Raga was a hermit who lived in the vicinity of Sutanangtung, Mount Larang Srimanganti, which is identified as the ancient name for Mount Cikuray in Garut Regency.

When is Kai Raga believed to have been active?

Based on comparative analysis of his manuscripts with other historical texts, Kai Raga is estimated to have lived in the early 18th century.

What happened to Kai Raga's literary legacy?

Kai Raga's manuscripts were passed down through his relatives. Later, in 1856, they were given to the painter Raden Saleh during his search for ancient relics initiated by the Batavian Society of Arts and Sciences.

What are the main themes covered in the *Carita Ratu Pakuan* manuscript?

The *Carita Ratu Pakuan* manuscript is divided into two parts: the first part discusses the hermitages of the 'pohaci' who were potential candidates for the wife of Ratu Pakuan or Prabu Siliwangi, and the second part narrates the story of Putri Ngambetkasih, who was Ratu Pakuan's wife.

Besides palm leaves, what other media were used for manuscripts employing script similar to the CRP model?

Similar script forms to the CRP model were also found on bamboo media, such as in the *Sanghyang Jati Maha Pitutur* and *Carita Waruga Guru* manuscripts, in addition to palm leaf manuscripts like *Kawih Panyaraman* and *Pakeling*.

What is the Kawali's Model of Old Sundanese script?

The Kawali's Model represents a style of Old Sundanese script found in inscriptions at Kawali. It is considered the oldest discovered type of Sundanese script, with some character forms differing slightly from those in later manuscripts.

What is the approximate time period for the Kawali's Model of Old Sundanese script?

The Kawali's Model of Old Sundanese script dates back to approximately the 14th century.

How many inscriptions written in Old Sundanese language are associated with the Kawali model?

There are a total of six inscriptions that utilize the Old Sundanese language and are associated with the Kawali model.

What is the historical significance of the Kawali I Inscription?

The Kawali I Inscription is significant as a 'sakakala' or memorial monument. It commemorates the victory of King Niskala Wastu Kancana, a Sundanese ruler of Kawali and son of King Linggabuana, who died at the Battle of Bubat.

What script type is the Old Sundanese script classified as?

The Old Sundanese script is classified as an abugida. This means it is a writing system where consonant characters have an inherent vowel sound, which can be modified or suppressed by diacritics.

In which direction is the Old Sundanese script written?

The Old Sundanese script is written from left to right.

What is the ISO 15924 code assigned to the Old Sundanese script?

The ISO 15924 code for the Old Sundanese script is Sund, with the numerical code 362.

What is the Unicode alias associated with the Old Sundanese script?

The Unicode alias for the Old Sundanese script is Sundanese.

What is the relationship between the Old Sundanese script and the Standard Sundanese script?

The Standard Sundanese script is a modernized adaptation of the Old Sundanese script. While they share similarities, the standard version includes modifications such as added letters (e.g., 'va', 'fa'), reduced letters (e.g., 're pepet', 'le pepet'), and altered shapes for some characters (e.g., 'na', 'ma') to suit contemporary Sundanese.

What are the main categories of letters presented in the tables for the CRP Model of Old Sundanese script?

The tables for the CRP Model categorize letters into Ngalagena (Consonants), Swara (Vocals), Pasangan (Hangers), Angka (Numbers), Khusus (Specials), and Rarangkén (Vocalizations).

What are the main categories of letters presented in the tables for the Kawali Model of Old Sundanese script?

The tables for the Kawali Model categorize letters into Ngalagena (Consonants), Swara (Vocals), and Rarangkén (Vocalizations).

What does the image caption 'Consonant table in old Sundanese script (CRP's model), from ka to ha' describe?

This caption describes a table that displays consonant letters within the Old Sundanese script, specifically following the Carita Ratu Pakuan's (CRP) model. The table covers the range of consonants from 'ka' to 'ha'.

What information does the caption 'Comparison of letter forms between Old Javanese Script, Old Sundanese Script and Standard Sundanese Script. The Old Javanese script contained is a variant from the Hindu Mataram era.' convey?

This caption explains that the accompanying image illustrates a comparison of letter forms from three distinct scripts: the Old Javanese Script (specifically a variant from the Hindu Mataram era), the Old Sundanese Script, and the Standard Sundanese Script.

What does the caption 'Old Sundanese script as used in palm leaf manuscripts from the 15th–17th centuries.' indicate?

This caption signifies that the image showcases examples of the Old Sundanese script as it was employed in manuscripts written on palm leaves during the period spanning the 15th to the 17th centuries.

What does the caption 'Facsimile of the first page of the Carita Waruga Guru manuscript found in Galuh District.' refer to?

This caption refers to a facsimile, which is a reproduction, of the first page of a manuscript titled *Carita Waruga Guru*. This particular manuscript was discovered in the Galuh District.

What does the caption 'Kawali Inscription in kabuyutan area of Astana Gede, Kawali.' identify?

This caption identifies the image as the Kawali Inscription, noting its location within the 'kabuyutan' area, which signifies a sacred or sanctuary site, at Astana Gede in Kawali.

What is the meaning of the Sundanese term 'Aksara Sunda Buhun'?

Aksara Sunda Buhun is the Sundanese term for the Old Sundanese script. It translates literally to 'Ancient Sundanese Script,' distinguishing it from later forms.

What does the term 'CRP's Model' signify in relation to the Old Sundanese script?

The term 'CRP's Model' refers to the specific style of Old Sundanese script found in the *Carita Ratu Pakuan* manuscript. This model is one of the two main documented versions used for digitization and font creation.

What does the term 'Kawali's Model' signify in relation to the Old Sundanese script?

The 'Kawali's Model' refers to the style of Old Sundanese script found in the inscriptions at Kawali. It is recognized as the oldest form of the script and serves as the second major documented model for digitization.

What was the historical trajectory of the Sundanese script's development?

The Old Sundanese script emerged in West Java from the 14th to 18th centuries, evolving from the Pallava script. Its usage declined due to the influence of Javanese culture following the Mataram Sultanate's expansion. Later, modifications led to the creation of the Standard Sundanese script for modern use.

What are the primary categories of characters detailed in the CRP Model's script tables?

The CRP Model's script tables detail characters categorized as Ngalagena (Consonants), Swara (Vocals), Pasangan (Hangers), Angka (Numbers), Khusus (Specials), and Rarangkén (Vocalizations).

What are the primary categories of characters detailed in the Kawali Model's script tables?

The Kawali Model's script tables detail characters categorized as Ngalagena (Consonants), Swara (Vocals), and Rarangkén (Vocalizations).

What is the historical connection between the Old Sundanese script and the Kawi script?

The Old Sundanese script is historically linked to the Kawi script, from which it is derived. While sharing a common ancestor in the Pallava script, the Old Sundanese script specifically excluded certain Kawi letters that were not applicable to the Old Sundanese language.

What does the term 'abugida' mean in the context of the Old Sundanese script?

Classifying the Old Sundanese script as an abugida means it is a writing system where each consonant character inherently includes a vowel sound. Other vowel sounds are represented by modifying the consonant character with diacritics.

What are the 'sister systems' of the Old Sundanese script mentioned in the infobox?

The infobox lists the Balinese, Batak, Baybayin, Javanese, Lontara, Lampung, Makasar, Rencong, and Rejang scripts as sister systems to the Old Sundanese script, indicating shared origins or influences within a broader script family.

What is the purpose of the 'Aksara Sunda Buhun' and 'Aksara Sunda CRP' entries in the infoboxes?

Aksara Sunda Buhun is the Sundanese name for Old Sundanese script, while 'Aksara Sunda CRP' specifically refers to the script model derived from the *Carita Ratu Pakuan* manuscript, highlighting different historical forms or representations of the script.

What does the 'Related scripts' section in the infobox illustrate about the Old Sundanese script?

The 'Related scripts' section illustrates the historical development and connections of the Old Sundanese script, showing its descent from Proto-Sinaitic through Phoenician, Aramaic, Brahmi, Pallava, and Old Kawi scripts, and its relationship to the modern Sundanese script.

What is the significance of the 'Standard Sundanese script' in relation to the Old Sundanese script?

The Standard Sundanese script is a direct descendant and modification of the Old Sundanese script. It has been adapted with additions, reductions, and shape changes to make it suitable for writing contemporary Sundanese.

What does the presence of IPA transcriptions in the article signify?

The article includes phonetic transcriptions in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to accurately represent the sounds of the Old Sundanese language and script, aiding in precise linguistic understanding.

Old Sundanese Script Wiki: The Genesis of Sundanese Script: An Exploration of Ancient Forms

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Introduction

Ancient Sundanese Writing

The Old Sundanese script represents a significant historical writing system that flourished in West Java between the 14th and 18th centuries. It was primarily utilized for documenting the Old Sundanese language and is recognized as a derivative of the Pallava script, having evolved into a distinct form by the 16th century, particularly evident in lontar (palm-leaf) manuscripts.^[1]

Geographical and Temporal Context

Originating in the region of West Java, Indonesia, the script's usage spans a considerable historical period. Its earliest documented forms are found in inscriptions dating back to the 14th century, such as those discovered in the Astana Gede inscriptions in Kawali District, Ciamis Regency, and the Kebantenan inscription in Bekasi City.^[2]

Script Classification

Old Sundanese script is classified as an abugida, a writing system where consonant graphemes inherently include a vowel, typically the schwa sound (/ə/). This inherent vowel can be modified or suppressed using diacritical marks, a characteristic shared with many Brahmic scripts originating from India.^[1]

Historical Trajectory

Early Inscriptions

The earliest evidence of Old Sundanese script appears in inscriptions such as those found at Astana Gede in Kawali and the Kebantenan inscription. These artifacts provide crucial insights into the script's nascent stages and its early application in recording historical events and royal decrees.^[2]

Displacement and Influence

According to historical analyses, the script's prevalence gradually diminished following the expansion of the Mataram Sultanate into the Priangan region. Sundanese culture, including its script, experienced significant influence from Javanese culture, leading many Sundanese scholars and writers to adopt Javanese scripts and conventions. This cultural assimilation resulted in the gradual displacement of the Old Sundanese script in many areas, except for regions like Cirebon and Banten.^[2]

Manuscript Tradition

The script is predominantly found in manuscripts crafted from palm leaves, where the writing was meticulously incised with a knife. Notable manuscripts utilizing this script include Bujangga Manik, Sewaka Darma, Carita Ratu Pakuan, and Carita Waruga Guru. These texts are invaluable resources for understanding Old Sundanese literature and the script's application in various literary forms.^[1]

The CRP Model

Carita Ratu Pakuan's Representation

The Carita Ratu Pakuan's (CRP) Model is one of the two well-documented forms of Old Sundanese script, often used as a representative example for the entire script. This model is derived from ancient Sundanese manuscripts, notably the Carita Ratu Pakuan manuscript, believed to have been penned by Kai Raga, a hermit from the early 18th century.

The CRP model includes a comprehensive set of consonant letters, known as Ngalagena, which form the core of the script's structure. These represent the fundamental sounds used in Old Sundanese.

Vowel letters, or Swara, are essential components of the script, indicating vowel sounds that can modify the inherent vowel of consonant graphemes or stand independently.

The Pasangan, or hanger letters, are crucial for modifying the inherent vowel of a consonant, allowing for the representation of consonant clusters or the suppression of the default vowel sound.

The script incorporates specific symbols for numerical representation, known as Angka, facilitating the recording of quantities and dates.

Additionally, the CRP model includes Khusus, or special letters, which may represent unique sounds, loanwords, or grammatical functions not covered by the standard consonant and vowel sets.

Rarangkén are diacritical marks or vowel signs that attach to consonant graphemes to alter their inherent vowel sound, playing a vital role in phonetic representation.

The Kawali Model

Earliest Forms and Inscriptions

The Kawali Model represents an earlier stage of the Old Sundanese script, characterized by forms found in inscriptions like the Kawali Inscription. These inscriptions, dating potentially to the second half of the 14th century, are considered the oldest known examples of Sundanese writing. The Kawali I Inscription, for instance, is interpreted as a memorial monument commemorating King Niskala Wastu Kancana.^[2]

Distinctive Character Forms

While sharing lineage with the CRP model, the Kawali script exhibits slightly different character forms, reflecting its earlier development. These variations are observable in the representation of consonants, vowels, and vocalization marks, offering a glimpse into the script's evolution.

The Ngalagena in the Kawali model present the foundational consonant sounds as recorded in the earliest inscriptions.

The Swara letters in the Kawali script are crucial for indicating vowel sounds, often appearing independently or modifying consonant graphemes.

The Rarangkén, or vocalization marks, are integral to the Kawali script, enabling the accurate phonetic representation of syllables.

Evolutionary Comparison

Old vs. Standard Sundanese

The Old Sundanese script served as the precursor to the modern Sundanese script. While sharing a common origin, the standard script underwent significant modifications to accommodate contemporary Sundanese language needs. These changes included the addition of new letters (e.g., 'va', 'fa'), the reduction or elimination of others (e.g., 're pepet', 'le pepet'), and alterations in the shapes of existing characters (e.g., 'na', 'ma').^[1]

Script Divergence

The distinction between the Old Sundanese script (represented by models like CRP and Kawali) and the modern Sundanese script lies in their adaptation to linguistic evolution and standardization efforts. While Old Sundanese reflects the language of historical manuscripts and inscriptions, the modern script is designed for contemporary usage, including digital applications.

Script Lineage

Brahmic Origins

The Old Sundanese script traces its ancestry back to the ancient Indian Brahmic scripts. Specifically, it evolved from the Pallava script, a prominent South Indian script used during the Pallava dynasty's rule. This lineage is evident in the fundamental structure and many character forms shared between Pallava and Old Sundanese.

Path to Sundanese

The developmental path shows a progression from the Pallava script to Old Kawi, and subsequently to Old Sundanese. This sequence highlights the transmission and adaptation of writing systems across Southeast Asia. The standard Sundanese script represents a later refinement of this tradition.

The script's lineage can be broadly traced as follows:

Proto-Sinaitic alphabet → Phoenician alphabet → Aramaic alphabet → Brahmī script → Pallava script → Old Kawi script → Old Sundanese script.

This historical progression demonstrates the script's deep roots in ancient writing traditions.

Related Scripts

Sister Scripts

The Old Sundanese script shares connections with various contemporary scripts derived from the same Pallava lineage. These include scripts used in other parts of Indonesia and Southeast Asia, such as Balinese, Batak, Javanese, Lontara, Makasar, and Rencong scripts, reflecting a shared cultural and historical heritage.

Descendant Script

The direct descendant of the Old Sundanese script is the modern Sundanese script, which continues to be used today. This evolution showcases the adaptability of the script to changing linguistic and societal needs over centuries.

Study Aids

Key Concepts

Understanding the Old Sundanese script involves grasping its classification as an abugida, its historical period (14th-18th centuries), its origin from the Pallava script, and its relationship to both older inscriptions (Kawali) and later manuscripts (CRP model).

Further Investigation

For deeper study, consider the specific characteristics of the Ngalagena, Swara, Pasangan, and Rarangkén within both the CRP and Kawali models. Examining the differences between Old Sundanese and modern Sundanese scripts is also crucial for understanding script evolution.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Old Sundanese script Wikipedia page

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The Genesis of Sundanese Script

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction ℹ️

📜 Ancient Sundanese Writing

🌍 Geographical and Temporal Context

✍️ Script Classification

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🏛️ Early Inscriptions

📉 Displacement and Influence

📚 Manuscript Tradition

The CRP Model 🎨

📖 Carita Ratu Pakuan's Representation

The Kawali Model 🗿

🗿 Earliest Forms and Inscriptions

🔤 Distinctive Character Forms

Evolutionary Comparison ⚖️

↔️ Old vs. Standard Sundanese

📜 Script Divergence

Script Lineage 🌳

🌱 Brahmic Origins

➡️ Path to Sundanese

Related Scripts 🔗

🤝 Sister Scripts

🔄 Descendant Script

Study Aids 📚

💡 Key Concepts

🧐 Further Investigation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Academic Integrity Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Ancient Sundanese Writing

Geographical and Temporal Context

Script Classification

Historical Trajectory

Early Inscriptions

Displacement and Influence

Manuscript Tradition

The CRP Model

Carita Ratu Pakuan's Representation

The Kawali Model

Earliest Forms and Inscriptions

Distinctive Character Forms

Evolutionary Comparison

Old vs. Standard Sundanese

Script Divergence

Script Lineage

Brahmic Origins

Path to Sundanese

Related Scripts

Sister Scripts

Descendant Script

Study Aids

Key Concepts

Further Investigation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Academic Integrity Notice