Purnawarman

Purnawarman was a king of the Tarumanagara kingdom, located in West Java, Indonesia. He reigned in the 4th century CE, according to inscriptions found from his time. Purnawarman is considered one of the earliest known Hindu rulers in the Indonesian archipelago. His reign is primarily known through several stone inscriptions, most notably the Ciaruteun, Kebonkopi, Jambu, and Tugu inscriptions. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the political, social, and economic conditions of the Tarumanagara kingdom.

The inscriptions attribute Purnawarman with significant achievements, including the construction of canals for irrigation and flood control. The Tugu inscription, in particular, mentions the digging of a canal named Gomati and Candrabhaga, which helped improve agriculture and facilitate trade. Purnawarman is also depicted as a powerful ruler who maintained peace and order within his kingdom. His name itself, meaning "fully protected" or "fully complete," suggests a benevolent and strong leadership.

The religious affiliation of Purnawarman is evident from the inscriptions, which often contain references to Hindu deities, particularly Vishnu. The Ciaruteun inscription bears a footprint believed to be that of Vishnu, linking the king to divine power. Purnawarman's reign marked a period of flourishing Hindu influence in West Java, contributing to the cultural and political landscape of ancient Indonesia. His legacy continues to be studied by historians as a crucial part of early Indonesian history.