“Ever wonder where faith dances with history?” Here at Vihara Dharma Bhakti, also known as Kim Tek Ie Temple, we’re standing before Jakarta’s oldest Chinese temple. It is more than just a building. It’s a testament to resilience and cultural fusion.
Vihara Dharma Bhakti’s story began in 1650. Chinese Lieutenant Kwee Hoen ordered its construction. Back then, it was named Kwan Im Teng. This name honored Kwan Im. Kwan Im means Pavilion of Guanyin. Interestingly, Kwan Im Teng became the origin of the word “klenteng”. Klenteng became a general term for any Chinese place of worship in the Indies.
But its early years weren’t without hardship. In 1740, tragedy struck. The temple was burned down during the Chinese massacre by the Dutch. Yet, from the ashes, Vihara Dharma Bhakti rose again.
In 1755, Chinese Captain Oey Tji Lo led the restoration. The temple was renamed Kim Tek Ie. Kim Tek Ie means Jin De Yuan in Mandarin. Later, it adopted the Indonesian translation, Vihara Dharma Bhakti.
Notice the expansive grounds. Vihara Dharma Bhakti covers 3000 square meters. It stands as a beacon of spirituality behind Jalan Gajah Mada. On the first and 15th day of the new moon devotees flock here. Especially during Chinese New Year, the energy is vibrant.
Before we enter the main temple, observe the three smaller temples. They are adorned in auspicious red. Red lanterns sway creating an enchanting ambiance. Each section houses altars dedicated to different deities.
As we step inside, the scent of incense fills the air. Devotees burn Hio. Look up at the prayer hall. Four red pillars support a double ceiling. The ceiling is crowned with the bud of a water lily. Rows of burning red candles create a mesmerizing display. Sunlight enhances this display.
Bronze statues of Tao, Confucian, and Buddhist deities grace Vihara Dharma Bhakti. They emphasize its adherence to the Buddhist Mahayana faith. The intricate carvings showcase the artistic brilliance of a bygone era. Dragons and swallows adorn the walls.
Vihara Dharma Bhakti is more than just Jakarta’s oldest Chinese temple. It is a center for Chinese-related festivities. The Zhong Yuan Festival fills the temple’s courtyard. The Lantern Festival illuminates the night. During the colonial period, a Peranakan Chinese opera was performed yearly every Vesak. Batavian kroncong music accompanied it. Traditional games enlivened the celebrations.
However, the temple faced another challenge. On March 2, 2015, fire struck Vihara Dharma Bhakti. A tarpaulin hanging near candles caught alight. The fire spread rapidly. It destroyed the ornamented roof frame. It damaged some 40 historic sculptures.
Even after the fire, Vihara Dharma Bhakti stands tall. Restoration efforts ensured its survival. Today, it continues to be a vital part of Jakarta’s cultural landscape.
So, as we leave Vihara Dharma Bhakti, remember its story. Remember the resilience. Remember the cultural fusion. This temple is not just a place of worship. It is a symbol of Jakarta’s rich history. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people.