The Aftermath of Perang Bubat: Majapahit's Strained Relationship with Sunda

Perang Bubat, a significant conflict that erupted in 1357, was a life-or-death struggle between the Majapahit Empire and the Sunda Kingdom. The war resulted in a devastating defeat for the Sundanese forces, culminating in the tragic death of the Sundanese princess Dyah Pitaloka. While the aftermath of this conflict engendered a profound sense of loss and humiliation for the Sunda Kingdom, the Majapahit Empire did not continue a large-scale military campaign against Sunda. Instead, the empire shifted its focus towards consolidation and diplomatic maneuvering.

Consolidation and Diplomatic Maneuvering

Following Perang Bubat, Majapahit's approach towards Sunda shifted significantly. The empire refrained from direct military actions, focusing instead on consolidating its power within Java and establishing trade relations with other regions, including Sunda. This strategic shift was partly influenced by the memory of the tragic war, which underscored the potential consequences of outright aggression.

Ambition and Embarrassment

While Majapahit did not completely abandon its ambitions, the incident of Perang Bubat, particularly the act of Gajah Mada, brought embarrassment to the Majapahit court. Gajah Mada, the prime minister who had led Majapahit to its zenith, was responsible for the horrific act of slaughtering the entire visiting royal family and dignitaries. This act was in clear violation of ancient practices stating that messengers and diplomats should be protected. This shocking betrayal led to Gajah Mada's banishment from the capital.

Apologies and Diplomatic Relations

In response to the incident, the Majapahit court sent an envoy to the Sunda court to apologize and to ensure that this barbaric act would be documented and remembered in the Kidung Sunda. The envoy's mission aimed to repair the damaged relationship between the two kingdoms, fostering a mix of diplomacy and trade rather than outright conflict.

The Sunda court's response to the banishment of Gajah Mada was unique. It was noted that while Sunda preferred to avoid direct conflict, they maintained a reputation for honor and valor. The Sundanese rulers, whether men or women, preferred to die rather than submit to foreign rule. This deeply rooted sense of honor was reflected in the behavior of the visiting dignitaries who fought to the death and the women who committed suicide to maintain their honor. Their actions were considered exemplary, even by their adversaries.

Strange Ironies

Two striking ironies emerged in the aftermath of Perang Bubat. First, the Sunda Kingdom surprisingly continued to outlive the Majapahit Empire by around 50 years. This period of independence allowed Sunda to maintain its cultural and political identity, albeit within the broader context of Majapahit's influence.

The second irony lay in the way the Sunda rulers were perceived by their Majapahit counterparts. Despite the tragedy of Perang Bubat, the Sundanese men and women demonstrated exceptional courage and honor during the conflict. This behavior garnered admiration within the Majapahit court, cementing the Sundanese reputation as stalwart defenders of their kingdom.

Conclusion

While Majapahit continued to expand its influence in other areas, its approach to Sunda after Perang Bubat was marked by a caution that stemmed from both guilt and embarrassment. The relationship between the two kingdoms became characterized more by a mix of diplomacy and trade than by outright conflict. The Sundanese rulers' unwavering commitment to their honor, demonstrated through their brave and honorable actions, played a crucial role in shaping this new dynamic between the two kingdoms.