THE KERIS

The Keris is the distinctive edged weapon of the Malay World. The origin of the word is uncertain, see Hobson Jobson for a tentative etymology. It is widely spread in the Archipelago, but has its origin in the island of Java. It is associated with special power due to its blade pattern welding (pamor) and shape (dapur). 

The Keris is a mystical weapon, Malay people believe it is inhabited by a spirit, and the choice of a good Keris goes with a thorough knowledge of the power, the magic and the wealth of each pamor and dapur to match your personality and needs. Some keris are transmitted from generation to generation as pusaka (heirlooms).

As westerners, we are not strong believers in the magical power of the Keris, however, one never knows... Wise collectors will have the Keris spend its first night at home under the pillow: if the night is full of good dreams, keep it, otherwise do not allow it to stay at home! 

This study will attempt to classify the various types of Keris strictly according to their physical aspects. Javanese experts will have a more esoteric approach and will classify Keris according to its Tangguh, Sepuh and wutuh.

The Keris origin is a subject of controversial theories. The Keris History page is a tentative contribution to this debate. A primitive variation of the Keris called Sajen or Majapahit, often wrongly identified as a proto Keris, is in fact a talisman.

The Keris is a unique thrusting dagger from the Malay world. It covers a geographical area which extends from Southern Thailand, to the Sunda Strait and from Sumatra to the Philippines Moro Land. Although each region has its particularities in terms of blade, hilt or sheath shape, there are four common denominator to make a Keris: 

A unique asymmetrical part at the base of the blade (ganja). Usually, a separate piece of metal welded together with the blade.

A removable hilt (ukiran), to allow the blade cleaning (siraman), with a pistol grip shape, often representing a deity.

A sheath (warangka) with a protruding base to accommodate the asymmetrical blade base.

A sinuous or straight double edged blade (wilah) of rough texture often damascened (pamor).