Early Javanese Inscriptions

An exploration of Indonesian epigraphical writing. It examines the early Javanese inscriptions, taking account of the detailed astronomical information so routinely presented in the texts. It uses a computer program developed for the purpose of addressing complex dating problems.

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Even the historical expert is - understandably - terrified by the complications involved in the calculation of dates. Early Javanese Inscriptions puts the study of Indonesian epigraphical dating on a completely new footing, both in speed and in reliability. It examines the early Javanese inscriptions, taking account for the first time of the detailed astronomical information so routinely presented in the texts. A computer analysis, (see http://www.anu.edu/asianstudies/cvs/ceadecv.html) facilitates confirmation or correction of dates and now makes possible a description of the intercalation (insertion of extra lunar months) employed.

Early Javanese Inscriptions may serve as a model for any historian working on complex dating problems. A reliable and, after some practice, easily accessible guide to the calculation of (Javanese) dates.