Rencong Aceh, Aceh Traditional Weapons and Symbols
For Acehnese, rencong is an inheritance used by them, especially men. Even in the time of the kingdoms of Aceh, adult boys are encouraged to have a rencong so that he can 'take care of himself'.
Rencong in Acehnese language called reuncong, is a traditional sharp weapon of Acehnese society. Because of its peculiarities, besides being called "Veranda of Mecca", the Special Territory of Aceh is also known as "Tanah Rencong".
In addition to self-defense equipment, rencong is a symbol of the greatness of the Acehnese aristocracy and the symbol of the courage of the Acehnese fighters against the colonial. As a symbol of courage and heroism of the people of Aceh, we can see the existence of rencong on photographs or paintings of heroes from Aceh. This weapon is inserted at the waist as a marker of egalitarianism and the height of dignity.
Rencong Aceh is said to have been known by the people of Aceh since the establishment of the Islamic Kingdom; Pasai, sometime in the 12th century. With all the development and evolution of its form until it reaches perfection as we see it today, it is closely related to Islamic belief.
According to T. Syamsudin, et al (1981), in function and usefulness, initially this Rencong Aceh is a cutting tool or home utensil. Of course at first roughly shaped, over time shaped smooth and smooth.
This is the task of the blacksmiths in Aceh known as Pandee Beusou. Then when the war against the Portuguese, during the reign of Sultan Ali Muqhayat Syah (1514-1528), that's when rencong was first used as a weapon.