By Shahabuddin Amerudin
The term “Silat” refers to an art of self-defense encompassing the understanding of movement to protect oneself, involving techniques employing weaponry or unarmed combat. Silat is synonymous with the indigenous martial arts of the Nusantara region, spanning countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Borneo, and other Southeast Asian nations. According to the Kamus Dewan dictionary, the term “trickery” is denoted as “elak,” while in the northern dialect of Tanah Melayu, it is referred to as “elat.” A theory posits that “Silat” has its origins in “si-ilat,” which means “one skilled in deception.” Furthermore, “Silat” can also connote “silap” in Malay Language or “error” or “blame,” as certain Silat movements are devised to perplex adversaries, leading them to commit errors in their attacks or defenses.
Humans are inherently inclined to safeguard themselves and escape danger. These movements stem from an instinct that is difficult to articulate, as opposed to being arbitrary actions. This inspiration manifests in various ways, including dreams, insights derived from meditation, and observations of animal movements. The genuine source of this inspiration arises from the Inspirer (refer to Sifat 20 in Islamic teachings). It finds expression through artistic movements referred to as “Bunga.” These movements carry a range of implicit meanings, giving rise to actions such as parrying, palm strikes, punching, grappling, opponent takedowns, stepping, and more. These abstract motions are believed to conceal numerous secret and intricate maneuvers.
At its core, the structure of Silat learning is divided into two components: “Bunga” and “Buah.” “Bunga” represents the foundational movements in Silat. Subsequently, these movements are organized to form the core of Silat, known as “Buah.” There exists a misconception that “Bunga” merely constitutes a dance performance. Some practitioners memorize the “Bunga” without comprehending its underlying secrets. Such individuals lack historical understanding and a genuine grasp of the essence of “Bunga” in Silat. “Bunga” movements draw inspiration from the founder of a particular Silat style and constitute the cornerstone of that martial art. For instance, the Silat Gayong Fatani is rooted in the “Bunga Sembah.”
“Bunga” serves as an introduction to a specific Silat style and is termed “Bunga Sembah.” Occasionally, “Bunga” is performed at ceremonies such as weddings and festive occasions, becoming emblematic of a particular martial art style. Observing these movements allows for the identification of the practiced Silat variant. This is pivotal to avert practitioners engaging in conflicts within their own school.
“Jurus,” also recognized as “Belebat,” are swift and repetitive movements designed to familiarize practitioners with specific techniques. Repetition ingrains these movements in their instincts, enabling them to execute these techniques in actual combat situations. For instance, a practitioner might step while simultaneously parrying with the left hand and striking with the right hand in a swift motion. In contrast to “Bunga,” “Jurus” movements are more forceful and direct. They can be executed with weapons or bare hands. “Jurus” serve as repetitive drills to embed attacking and defensive movements in a practitioner’s muscle memory, enabling effective execution in real combat scenarios.
“Buah Silat” constitutes a fusion of movements derived from the foundational “Bunga” motions. It is also referred to as “Buah Pukul.” This entails a sequence of steps to counter an attack until the adversary is subdued, adhering to a predetermined pattern of movements. “Buah Silat” is curated by the founders of Silat styles, assigned names, and structured into a systematic curriculum based on proficiency levels. Students must commit all these “Buah” patterns to memory according to their levels, and these are distinguished by specific techniques until their training is completed. This pedagogical approach is perpetuated by Silat instructors in their training environments.
In conclusion, Malay Silat boasts an extensive history and a diverse array of forms and styles. Its authenticity and techniques are preserved through intergenerational transmission and learning. It serves as a crucial cultural identity for the Malay community and can only be upheld through continued study and practice. Without this, Malay Silat might wane, persisting solely in written accounts, visuals, and films.
Source of the original article: http://asalsilat.blogspot.com/2015/04/asal-usul-silat.html
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). Exploring the Essence of Silat: Tradition, Techniques, and Cultural Significance. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=6782 (Accessed: 28 August 2023).