This second volume continues and expands upon the research begun in the first title of the series. Whereas the first book outlined fundamental themes and issues, here I develop them in greater detail, reconstructing historical contexts, ritual practices, and paths of transmission. The island of Java is at the heart of the study: not only as a geographical space, but as a cultural crossroads where ascetic and martial practices converge around the concept of 'invulnerability', intertwining physicality, symbols and esoteric knowledge. In the region, a syncretic dynamic — fuelled by trade, proselytism and domination — has produced ancestral rituals and techniques of power in which the body becomes a vehicle of status and authority. Through processes of reinforcement and purification, body, mind and soul intertwine to awaken forces that transcend the visible. The choice of Java is based on the presence of cultural elements that elevate bodily power as a factor of social position and on my personal experience: twenty years of martial arts research and participation in the area have allowed me to directly observe and participate in practices that elsewhere remain only documented.
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Massimiliano Morandini, the former author of “Journey Through Pencak Silat” and “The Essence of Pencak Silat”, writes articles on the Pukulan Pentjak Silat Sera (from now PPSS) and pencak silat for specialised magazines in the sector. In particular, he contributes to Malaysia's leading magazine, Majalah Seni Beladiri, providing regular contributions on the multifaceted Malay martial world.
He dedicates himself tirelessly to uncovering the essence of pencak silat, immersing himself in Indonesia for extended periods. Indonesia, steeped in tradition and profound knowledge of combat and the syncretic traditions enveloping pencak silat, serves as his primary source of insight. With the titles of guru (master) of PPSS and Panji Dua (an art dedicated to the enhancement of inner power called tenaga dalam in Indonesian), he is one of the few Westerners teaching pencak silat in Indonesia, holding seminars on PPSS.
He has participated with distinction in the opening of international pencak silat festivals and events, garnering recognition for his dedication to promoting Malay culture. With unwavering enthusiasm, he persists in his mission of dissemination and instruction through the Italian school of PPSS, while also conducting international seminars on pencak silat.
