Kidung

Kidung

Kidung (also sometimes spelled "kidoung") is a Javanese and Balinese term that refers to a type of traditional lyrical poem or song, often of a narrative nature. Kidung occupies a space between spoken prose and more rigidly structured verse forms like kakawin. They are typically sung or chanted, often accompanied by gamelan music, particularly in Bali.

Key characteristics of kidung include:

• Narrative Content: Kidung often tells stories, drawing from Javanese historical chronicles (babad), romances, or religious tales. These narratives can be lengthy and complex.
• Melody and Rhythm: Kidung possesses specific melodic contours and rhythmic patterns which distinguish them from ordinary speech. The melody and rhythm are integral to the performance and reception of the text.
• Metrical Structure: While less strict than kakawin, kidung still adhere to certain metrical constraints. These meters often dictate the number of syllables per line and the arrangement of long and short vowels, although variations can occur. The specific meters used in kidung are known as pupuh.
• Language: Kidung are typically composed in Middle Javanese (also known as Kawi) or Balinese, which are literary languages different from modern spoken Javanese and Balinese. This adds a layer of formality and prestige to the genre.
• Performance Context: Kidung are frequently performed in religious ceremonies, theatrical performances (such as wayang kulit or wayang wong), and other ritual contexts in Java and Bali. The performance serves to entertain, educate, and transmit cultural values.
• Oral Tradition: Kidung texts have traditionally been passed down through oral tradition, although many examples have also been written down in manuscripts. This oral transmission influences the variations in performance and interpretation.
• Examples: Notable examples of kidung include the Kidung Sunda, which recounts the Bubat War between the Sundanese and Majapahit kingdoms, and various kidung which form part of Balinese temple ceremonies.

The study of kidung provides valuable insights into Javanese and Balinese history, literature, music, and religious practices.