Lengkong Karya

Slipping through time, imagine Lengkong Karya as a hidden sanctuary. Raden Arya Wangsakara, a revered ulama, sought refuge here. He was escaping pressures from the Mataram Kingdom and Dipati Ukur’s rebellion. He chose this location in Lengkong Karya for its strategic concealment. The natural barriers of bamboo forests and the Cisadane River provided protection. The village’s name, Lengkong, reflects its location within a river bend. It also connects back to Wangsakara’s origins in Sumedang. Lengkong Karya wasn’t chosen randomly. Wangsakara meticulously selected a spot along the Cisadane River. This spot uniquely aligned with the Qibla, 25 degrees from west to north. This sacred orientation influenced the layout of the entire village. Early santri homes, built as stilt huts, mirrored the Qibla’s direction. Their elongated structures faced the river and nearby hills. The first structure erected in Lengkong Karya was a mosque, extending towards the river. Around it, the santri huts clustered, forming the heart of the burgeoning community. Over time, some santri settled permanently in Lengkong Karya, raising families. Their simple huts transformed into homes, establishing a vibrant village. Upon his death, Wangsakara was buried on a hill overlooking Lengkong Karya. This elevated burial site echoes the tradition of Javanese sultans and suns. Wangsakara’s tomb, an archaic structure dating back to the 17th century, remains a significant archaeological feature. Other historical remnants include the tomb of Kyai Mustaqim (18th-19th century). The former home of Wangsakara’s second wife and the original mosque, now modernized, further connect Lengkong Karya to its past. Lengkong Karya played a pivotal role in Tangerang’s history. Its strategic location on the Cisadane River facilitated both the spread of Islam and trade. From the Mataram Kingdom era to the struggles against the VOC, Lengkong Karya held a strategic position. It also served as a base for Masyumi and witnessed the “Battle of Lengkong,” led by Mayor Daan Mogot during Indonesia’s fight for independence. Today, the greater Lengkong area is divided into five sub-districts. Lengkong Kyai (now Lengkong Kulon), where Wangsakara built the first mosque, lies within the Pagedangan district of Tangerang Regency. Lengkong Karya falls under the Serpong Utara district. Lengkong Wetan, Lengkong Gudang, and Lengkong Gudang Timur belong to the Serpong district within South Tangerang City. While the Cisadane River once marked its strategic importance for trade and religion, modern Lengkong Karya faces new challenges. Nestled between BSD City and Bintaro Jaya, it attracts the attention of developers. The hope remains that Lengkong Karya’s unique history, environment, and original inhabitants will be preserved for future generations.