Dewi Lanjar : The Sea Goddess

Dewi Lanjar

Introduction

According to Javanese mythology, Dewi Lanjar is an Indonesian sea goddess who stands in opposition to Nyai Roro Kidul and the Queen of the Northern Sea. In the Central Javan city of Pekalongan, she is a well-liked goddess. Her name, “Lanjar,” denotes a childless, divorced woman. The Pekalongan coast’s inhabitants are also well-versed in the tale of his contribution and power. There are those who actually think of it as a gift-giver.

Dewi Lanjar is still revered as the ruler or Queen of the North Sea in Pekalongan and other coastal communities along Java’s North Sea Coast. According to legend, Dewi Lanjar’s magical palace is situated close to the Slamaran River on the Pekalongan coast.
.

Physical Traits

Dewi Lanjar is often represented as a beautiful woman but a widow. She is also associated with the sea and is often mentioned in conjunction with water.

Family

Dewi Lanjar is mentioned to be a young widow without a mention of any other family members. Another version claims that Raden Bahu’s wife, Rantam Sari, is Dewi Lanjar. If her ancestry were to be determined, she would be Nawangsih, the younger sister of Nawangwulan, the Queen of the South on the south coast of Java.

Other names

Dewi Lanjar literally means The Goddess of Young Widow and was originally called Dewi Rara Kuning before receiving the title of Dewi Lanjar.

Powers and Abilities

When Raden Bahu was cutting down trees at Gambiren (currently located close to the Anim Bridge and the Sorogenen Pekalongan Bridge), Ratu Kidul ordered Goddess Lanjar to lead an army of the jinn to disturb him. However, due to Raden Bahu’s superior strength, he was able to defeat the entire jinn army as well as Dewi Lanjar herself.

After losing, Dewi Lanjar made the decision not to go back to the South Coast and requested Raden Bahu’s permission to settle and found her kingdom in Pelalongan with two lovely women: Sri Lorensa and Sri Lopaka.

Locals think Dewi Lanjar has an invisible bank where regular people can borrow money from her—but only for a fee, of course. Getting in touch with Goddess Lanjar is simple. The Al-Ikhlas only requires 41 readings, and at night, one should camp out at the main door. In exchange for your life or the life of a member of your family, this lovely goddess will visit you and give you some of her treasures.

Modern Day Influence

Dewi Lanjar is still very revered, especially by the people of Pekalongan. For instance, if a child is reported missing from the beach, Dewi Lanjar is frequently blamed. On Pekalongan beach, close to the Slamaran river, it is rumoured that her palace is situated.