Philosophy of Semar

Semar is a character in Javanese mythology who frequently appears in wayang shadow plays. He is one of the punakawan (wayang clowns), but is in fact divine and very wise. He is the dhanyang (guardian spirit) of Java, and is regarded by some as the most sacred figure of the kotak (wayang set). He is said to be the god Sang Hyang Ismaya in human form.

The name Semar is said to derive from the Javanese word samar ('dim, obscure, mysterious'). He is often referred to with the honorific, "Kyai Lurah Semar" (the venerable chief).

The philosophy of Semar calligraphy

Philosophy of Semar:

"Bojo sira arsa Mardi kamardikan, aja samar sumingkiring dur-kamurkan Mardika, ora kebanda ing kadonyan, ora samar marang bisane sirna durka murkamu"

which means the freedom of soul; a condition unconquered by lust and mortal life desire, to remain perfectly 'innocent' til death, to restrain temptation and convert it into a power towards perfection in life.