Sutasoma : Jurnal Sastra Jawa
Vol. 13 No. 2 (2025): Sutasoma: Jurnal Sastra Jawa

Bima Suci and the Modern Human Existential Crisis: A Philosophical Study of Ki Manteb Sudarsono’s Wayang Kulit Performance

Muhtar, Mohamad Khusnial (Unknown)
Yohanes Mai, Adrianus (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Nov 2025

Abstract

Amid the identity crisis of modern humans due to the dominance of digital culture and globalization, the wayang kulit performance of Bima Suci by Ki Manteb Sudarsono presents a sustained philosophical reflection on the meaning of life, an epistemology of praxis, and spiritual transformation. This study aims to analyze the philosophical meaning contained in the play using qualitative methods and a systematic-reflective philosophical approach. Primary data derive from a video documentation of Ki Manteb’s performance on the Donkgedank YouTube channel (2018), supplemented by Javanese philosophical literature and relevant scholarship. The findings demonstrate that this performance highlights the teachings of Sangkan Paraning Dumadi (the origin and ultimate purpose of existence), an epistemology of praxis (knowledge gained through lived experience), and Bratasena’s transformation into a spiritually mature self. This philosophical message is particularly relevant for modern humans facing existential alienation in the digital era, suggesting that wayang kulit serves not merely as a spectacle but as a contemplative medium for rediscovering an authentic sense of self.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

sutasoma

Publisher

Subject

Other

Description

All manuscripts submitted to this journal must follow the journals focus, scope, and author guidelines. The submitted manuscripts must address scientific merit or novelty appropriate to the focus and scope. All manuscripts must be free from plagiarism contents. All authors are advised to use ...