Srivijaya

Srivijayan Expansion

Talang Tuo Inscription

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Houtvlotten met woningen erop die de rivier Moesi afzakken Palembang Zuid-Sumatra TMnr 10007707

Srivijaya Archaeological Park Palembang Indonesia

Candi Muaro Jambi dengan langit biru

Prasasti Kedukan Bukit 3

Srivijaya was a dominant thalassocracy or maritime empire in Southeast Asia, which influenced much of the Malay Archipelago from the 7th to the 12th centuries. The empire was based around the present-day Palembang, on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. Srivijaya was an important center for the expansion of Buddhism throughout the region, and its wealth was largely attributed to its control over the strategic Strait of Malacca, through which all sea-going trade between China and India was conducted.

History

The origins of Srivijaya are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been established in the 7th century. The earliest known reference to it is from a Chinese source dating back to 671 AD, when the monk Yijing visited the region. Srivijaya grew by controlling the local trade routes and establishing diplomatic relations with the powers of the region. It reached its peak in the 8th and 9th centuries under the leadership of rulers like Dharanindra and Balaputradewa, extending its influence over much of Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula, and parts of Java.

The empire was a thalassocracy, which means its power was based on naval strength. Srivijaya's dominance over the Strait of Malacca allowed it to control the lucrative spice trade between the East and the West. This economic power was complemented by a sophisticated political system, with a central government headed by a maharaja and a network of vassal states that owed allegiance to the empire.

Culture and Religion

Srivijaya was a melting pot of cultures and religions, thanks to its strategic position along major trade routes. Buddhism, particularly the Mahayana branch, was the dominant religion, and the empire is credited with playing a key role in its spread across Southeast Asia. The capital, Palembang, was known for its numerous Buddhist monasteries and shrines, which attracted scholars and monks from across Asia.

Hinduism was also practiced in the empire, and the two religions coexisted harmoniously. The cultural landscape of Srivijaya was further enriched by the influence of Islamic traders who visited the empire from the 10th century onwards, leading to the gradual spread of Islam in the region.

Economy

Srivijaya's economy was based on trade, agriculture, and tribute from vassal states. Its strategic location allowed it to control and tax the trade through the Strait of Malacca, enriching the empire. The fertile land of Sumatra and the surrounding islands also contributed to the empire's wealth, producing rice, gold, and precious woods.

Decline

The decline of Srivijaya began in the 11th century, due to a combination of factors including internal strife, the emergence of rival trading centers, and attacks from foreign powers. The Chola invasion from India in the 11th century significantly weakened the empire, and by the 13th century, Srivijaya had lost much of its territory and influence. The last known reference to its existence comes from the 14th century, after which it was absorbed into the growing Majapahit Empire and other regional powers.

Legacy

The legacy of Srivijaya is seen in the spread of Buddhism throughout Southeast Asia and the Malay cultural influences that persist in the region today. The empire also contributed to the development of the Malay language and script, which are used in modern Malaysia and Indonesia. Despite its disappearance, Srivijaya remains an important part of Southeast Asian history, symbolizing the region's rich maritime heritage and cultural diversity.