14 Jul 2024

The Ultimate Guide to the Golok: Iconic Short Sword of Pencak Silat

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Introduction

The Golok is more than just a weapon; it is a cultural symbol deeply embedded in the history and traditions of the Betawi people of Indonesia specifically, and the Silat traditions all over the Malay Archipelago in general. This short machete, with its distinctive design and multifaceted uses, represents the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Pencak Silat practitioners over the centuries. From its origins to its modern-day significance, the Golok stands as a testament to the Betawi people's heritage and a symbol of resistance for Silat practitioners everywhere.

Historical Background

The Betawi people are the indigenous inhabitants of Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. Their culture is a rich tapestry woven from various influences, including Malay, Javanese, Chinese, Arab, and European influences. This diverse heritage is reflected in their religious and cultural practices, their food, their clothing, their music, and their weaponry. The Golok was early on adopted as one of the iconic symbols of their people and the most important weapon taught in their styles of Pencak Silat. The Golok, as a traditional blade, has a long history that predates the formal establishment of the Betawi people as a distinct ethnic group. While the exact origins of the Golok are difficult to pinpoint, Malay and Javanese historical records and artifacts suggest that similar machetes have been used across the Malay Archipelago for centuries.

The Pre-Betawi Era

The term "Golok" itself is derived from an old Malay word "golog," which means a type of knife or short sword. References to machete-like tools can be traced back to very early inscriptions and records from various parts of the Malay Archipelago, including Sumatra, Java, and Borneo.

1. Malay Annals (Sejarah Melayu): One of the earliest recorded literary mentions of a blade resembling the Golok can be found in the Sejarah Melayu, a classical Malay text dating back to the 15th century. The annals describe various weapons used by Malay warriors, including short machetes similar to the Golok. These texts highlight the importance of such tools in both daily life and warfare.

2. Javanese Historical Records: In Java, historical texts such as the "Pararaton" (The Book of Kings) and "Negarakertagama," which date from the 14th century, also reference the use of short swords and machetes. These weapons were used by soldiers and common people alike for agricultural tasks and warfare. The design and usage of these blades bear a strong resemblance to the Golok.

3. Archeological Findings: Archeological findings from various sites in Indonesia have uncovered blades that resemble the Golok, dating back to Sriwijaya, a powerful Malay Buddhist Empire based in Sumatra that was the precursor to the Melaka Sultanate founded later on in Malaysia that became the height of Malay Islamic Empire of antiquity. And Majapahit, a powerful Javanese Hindu Empire, both existing between the 7th and 15th centuries before their conversions to Islam and transformation into powerful local Sultanates. These empires had extensive trade networks, cultural exchanges, and wars, which likely contributed to the dissemination of blade-making techniques across the region.

The colonial period presented many opportunities to practice Silat on resistant adversaries and perfect the techniques.

The Colonial Period

The arrival of the Dutch in the early 17th century marked a significant turning point in the history of the Betawi people and the Golok. Under Dutch colonial rule, Jakarta, then known as Batavia, became a bustling center of trade and commerce. The colonial administration imposed various restrictions on the local population, including regulations on the carrying of weapons in order to minimize resistance against their rule. Despite these restrictions, the Golok continued to be an important tool and weapon for the Betawi people. Its relatively small size made it easy to conceal, allowing locals to carry it discreetly within their clothing. The Golok was often used in guerrilla tactics against Dutch forces, and it became a symbol of resistance and resilience throughout the region. Many incidents of "Perang Sabil" or martyrdom attacks by Betawi Mujahedeen (Islamic warriors) included the Golok as it was easily concealed and deployed against the invaders at opportune times. 

The early 20th century saw the rise of nationalist movements across Indonesia, including in Jakarta, and the Golok played a symbolic and practical role in these movements. Nationalist leaders and freedom fighters, known as "pahlawan," often carried Goloks as symbols of their commitment to the struggle for independence. The weapon’s association with resistance and self-reliance made it a powerful emblem in the fight against colonialism. During the Indonesian National Revolution (1945-1949), which followed the end of World War II and the Japanese occupation, the Golok was used a lot by militias and revolutionary groups. Its effectiveness in close-quarter combat and its symbolic value made it a preferred weapon among many fighters, and especially amongst those who had mastered the Golok as part of their practice of Pencak Silat. 

After Indonesia gained independence in 1949, the Golok continued to hold cultural significance for the Betawi people. The weapon was no longer needed for resistance, but it remained a valued tool and a symbol of their community. In the rapidly modernizing society of post-independence Indonesia, the Golok served as a link to the past and a reminder of the people's enduring spirit.

Golok from Master Craftsman, Pendekar Tedi Kardin. An amazing piece of art and sharp as a surgical instrument.

Modern Day Renaissance 

In recent times, there has been a renewed interest in traditional Betawi culture, including the craftsmanship and usage of the Golok as they elevated its construction to artisan levels due to the adoption of the weapon as a symbol of their people. This cultural renaissance has been driven by various factors, including efforts to preserve and promote indigenous heritage, the rise of cultural tourism, and a growing appreciation for traditional Pencak Silat by people from outside Indonesia that have fallen in love with the martial culture of the land and its rich history of edged-weapon training methods. 

Artisans and blacksmiths continue to produce Goloks using traditional methods, ensuring that the knowledge and skills associated with its creation are passed down to future generations. Cultural festivals and exhibitions, such as the annual "Lebaran Betawi" festival, celebrate the Golok as an integral part of Betawi identity and the main weapon associated with the martial practices of the area. These events provide an opportunity for younger generations to connect with their heritage and for the wider public to appreciate the rich martial culture of Jakarta and its people.

Symbolism and Chivalry

Beyond its practical uses as a weapon of combat and symbol of Pencak Silat in Jakarta, the Golok has become a symbol of Betawi identity and pride. Owning a well-crafted Golok is often seen as a mark of distinction. During cultural festivals and ceremonies, the Golok is prominently displayed, showcasing the craftsmanship and cultural significance of this iconic weapon. In various ceremonies, the Golok is a prominent feature. During weddings, it is common for the groom to carry a Golok as a symbol of his strength and readiness to protect his family from any and all harm that may come to them. In other rites of passage, the Golok represents the transition from one stage of life to another, embodying the virtues of bravery, responsibility, and honor, that are part of the traditional chivalric traditions of Pencak Silat. 

Design and Construction

The Golok is distinct from other machetes primarily due to its size, shape, and construction. Typically ranging from 12 to 18 inches in length, the Golok features a slightly curved blade with a heavy, broad end. This design enhances its chopping ability, making it effective for cutting through tough vegetation in jungle environments common to Indonesia as well as in close combat.

Blade & Handle

The blade of the Golok is usually made from high-carbon steel, which provides a good balance between hardness and toughness. The edge is single-beveled, allowing for more efficient chopping. Traditional Golok often features a hammered finish, indicative of their handcrafted origins. The blade's curvature and weight distribution are key to its functionality, ensuring that it delivers powerful chopping blows with minimal effort. Many modern bladesmiths like to use D2 steel for the Golok to enhance its hardness and impact-resistance. 

The handle of the Golok is typically crafted from hardwood or horn, materials chosen for their durability and comfort. The shape of the handle is ergonomically designed to fit snugly in the hand, providing a secure grip. Often, the handles are adorned with, Ukiran, intricate carvings or inlays, reflecting the artisan's skill and can also be embellished with precious stones or metals or use rare types of horn reflecting the owner's status and wealth. The handles also have a curvature at the end that contours the hand allowing for interesting grip changing tactics mid-combat to further deceive an adversary in a combative engagement. 

Usage in Pencak Silat Training and Warfare

The Golok is also a formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled Silat practitioner. In traditional Pencak Silat the Golok is used in both offensive and defensive maneuvers to maim or kill adversaries. Its balance and weight make it ideal for powerful strikes and swift, fluid movements that can easily be combined with a small dagger in the second hand or with emptyhand techniques. Pencak Silat practitioners train extensively with the Golok to master various techniques like slashing, stabbing, blocking, slapping, and parrying maneuvers. The weapon's design allows for quick, fluid movements, making it effective in both close-quarters combat and more open fighting scenarios. Training often involves solo drills, paired exercises, and sparring to develop proficiency and adaptability.

One of the key techniques is the "tebasan" (slashing), where the practitioner uses the Golok's curved blade to deliver powerful, slicing attacks. Another fundamental technique is the "tikaman" (stabbing), utilizing the pointed tip of the Golok for precision strikes usually targeting the abdominal area and the upper part of the leg which presents an easily acquired, larger target area. Defensive techniques include "tangkisan" (blocking) and "parian" (parrying), where the practitioner deflects or redirects an opponent's attack, often followed by violent counter-offensive movements to retake the initiative and overwhelm the enemy.

Combat Usage of the Golok

Throughout history, the Golok has been employed by Silat practitioners in various conflicts, demonstrating its effectiveness in real combat situations.

1. Dutch Colonial Resistance: During the Dutch colonial period, Silat fighters used the Golok in guerrilla warfare against the colonizers on a regular basis. Silat practitioners, who were adept in the use of the Golok, organized small, agile fighting units that could move quickly through the dense forests and urban environments of Jakarta with concealed weapons. These fighters utilized their knowledge of the terrain and their combative skills to launch surprise attacks on Dutch occupation forces, disrupting their supply lines, assassinating their field commanders, and cutting communication networks.

2. Indonesian National Revolution: In the bloody struggle for Indonesian independence from 1945 to 1949, Golok-armed fighters played a significant role in the battles for freedom. Silat practitioners were part of the "Pemuda" (youth) militias, which conducted guerrilla operations against Dutch and Allied forces. Notably, in the Battle of Surabaya in 1945, Golok-wielding Silat fighters were among the frontline troops committed to Perang Sabil, the martyrdom rushes that proved so terrible against the occupation's forces. The close-quarters nature of urban warfare in Surabaya allowed these fighters to effectively use their Silat training and the Golok's capabilities in intense street battles.

3. Modern-Day Self-Defense: Even in contemporary settings, the Golok remains a viable weapon for close combat. In rural areas, where modern law enforcement may be less accessible, individuals trained in Pencak Silat and armed with a Golok have effectively protected themselves and their communities. There have been several instances where farmers and villagers have successfully defended against bandits or wild animals using their Goloks, showcasing the weapon’s continued practical utility. The Golok has also been used in urban environments against home invasions, banditry, and to settle personal honor disputes (rare), as most Betawi homes have a Golok in them. 

Conclusion

The Golok, whether seen as a tool, a weapon, or a cultural artifact, remains an iconic symbol of the rich and diverse martial heritage of Pencak Silat in Indonesia and the wider Malay archipelago: Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore. Enriching all Silat traditions and making them stronger and more versatile, while remaining the iconic blade of the Betawi people of Jakarta and its surroundings.