Before Rencong was known, the people of Aceh had been using a weapon called Siwah. These weapons have no handles, so it is very difficult when used in combat, especially when the weapon has already been covered in blood. These weapons became slippery and easy to understand why losing blood. Therefore, by order of Sultan Alaiddin Riayat Syah Al-Kahhar decision at that time, The Smiths then invited to change Siwah with new models that are not difficult when used for war. Smith was finally added to form script) in Siwah.

Rencong already there since the late 19th century, this is one of the weapons used in war against the Dutch colonizers, especially in the Aceh war that lasted between the years 1873-1904 AD. Symbolically, these weapons are valuable as a heritage of martial arts weapons to evoke the spirit of Aceh soldiers. Almost all soldiers and Aceh guerrilla leader was involved in the waist while maintaining the struggle of their homeland, including women, such as Tjuta Nyak Dien and other heroines.

Rencong generally divided into four parts: Rencong eyes (at least), punting Rencong, Ulee Rencong (lunch) and sarong Rencong (cover). Recong forn blade is slightly curved with a pointed tip section, but not as Kris (we’ll write about this soon Kris). Therefore, as a physical weapon, it is stronger and looks like a solid when held. the entire front of the crisp, sharp, while the back is only about three quarters of which is close to the bud. There is a bean-flower shape carved in reverse on the front side near the base of the upper blade. This section is called Bengkuang Rencong, and nail stilisasi of the Garuda bird, or eagle.

sarong and top layers can be made ​​of plain wood, ivory and buffalo horn. Strengthen and beautify it sarong tied with a ring-shaped piece of metal called klah. Klah was made ​​of brass, silver or gold. Meanwhile, Ulee Rencong can be decorated with silver or gold engraved.

At first Rencong only function as a weapon to defend themselves and fight against enemies such as the Dutch colonizers. In addition, it also used as integrity of the local traditional costumes. Aceh people carry it by putting it in the folds of the sarong holder of the stomach. Rencong upstream towards the right hand, while the body stuffed in a side position, relying on the right side as well. Symbolically, it is likely to allow the user to easily pull out when needed. However, the current Rencong function as adults. It is also used as a souvenir given to guests as well as government officials and people who come to visit the Soft Porch country.

Refferences https://acehinternationaltourism.wordpress.com/2012/08/26/rencong-aceh-traditional-weapon/

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