A Test for the King
A Folktale from Central Java
There is a small kingdom called Mergosono. Although Mergosono is small, it is famous because the king is a very good and wise man. One day, the gods hear about the king’s goodness and wisdom. So, they decide to test him. The king of the gods sends four of his gods to Mergosono to test the king. At that time, the king’s son, Pangeran Sembara is studying abroad. So one of the gods disguise as Pangeran Sembara. Two other as villagers while one disguise as a villager who is killed by Pangeran Sembara. The two villagers then go to see the king to tell him about the death of their friend. They say that they saw the prince killed their friend. ÒI accept your report. But my son hasn’t returned from his study. I will hold my judgement until his return. If my son indeed killed your friend then I will give him the punishment he deserve. But if you lie then I will punish you for ruining my family’s good name,” says the king. When the two villagers leave, the king calls his trusted advisors. He asks for their opinion about this matter. They all agree that if the report is true then the prince should be punished. The king is sad to hear that but he knows he must uphold the law. The next morning the false prince comes to see his father. He admits killing the vilager. So the king decides to execute the prince for his wrong doing. The next day the prince is going to be hung as his punishment. When the executioner hang the prince, suddenly his body disappear and a voice is heard across the field. “King of Mergosono, you really are a wise and justfull king. You pass my test. So I will give you and your people prosperity as long as you and your descendant stay true and wise. Don’t be sad. Your son is well and on his way home to see you.” When the sound is gone, the people of Mergosono yells with joy. Their prince is safe and they know that their king is a wise man. When the prince finally arrives home, they hold a party to celebrate the event
