River and Civilization in Sumatera’s Historical Perspective in The 7th to 14th Centuries

Abstract

The study of the relationship of civilization and the river as a natural path resulting from the interaction process between hydrological behaviors with the surface of the earth, vary over time and strongly influenced by the nature of the river, river function, and human behavior in the effort to utilize the river and its resources. The dynamics of water flow and river sediments are not only influenced by natural behavior, but also human behavior or activity. All living things that exist on earth also need a river, including humans. Rivers are often controlled to be more useful or reduce their negative impact on human activities. The benefits of the river for human life are very important and vital, for an example to retain water, to flow the water downstream, the source of sustenance, and the river is often considered as a place for contemplation, relaxation, and even to get enlightenment. It has long been acknowledged that the river became the beginning for the emerge and the development of a civilization, both in the perspective of "A Hydraulic Empire Civilization" and "The Cradle of Civilization". According to the spirit of the time (zeitgeist), humans began to develop technology in the growth areas around the river, the dam was built to control the water flow, to store water or produce energy; the embankment is designed to prevent the river from flowing over flood border; canals are built to connect rivers for transfer the water or navigation. The development of settlements and cultural centers between the 7th and 14th centuries in Sumatera Island cannot be separated from the existence of the Musi River, Batang Hari, Siak, and Kampar River. In that period left a very clear historical trail, namely the kingdom of Sriwijaya as a maritime kingdom, Bahal, Muara Takus Temple, and Muaro Jambi temple.