By: Ngurah Sigit
Throughout the journey of human history, we find countless tales of struggles for the throne, boundless ambition, and power that shakes the world. From ancient times to the modern era, the throne has always symbolized the pinnacle of human ambition, the place where power is concentrated, and the fate of a nation is decided. Those who ascend to the throne are seen as absolute rulers, controllers of destiny, and guardians of stability. Yet, amidst all its grandeur and might, there is one force that is always greater and unavoidable—time.
The throne is not merely a seat for a leader. In many cultures, it represents grandeur and immortality, a manifestation of power that surpasses all challenges. Rulers, from the pharaohs of Egypt to the kings of Europe, have treated the throne as a symbol of divine authority, claiming their power as a mandate from the gods or destiny itself. However, history reveals that the throne often brings about great suffering. The quest for the throne has ignited the flames of war, sparked betrayals, and led to endless bloodshed. Powerful kings, who once held full control over their people’s fate, often became trapped in paranoia and fear of losing their power. For them, the throne is both a blessing and a curse.
Power, on the other hand, is the driving force of history. With power, leaders can build civilizations, shape geopolitics, create laws, and alter the course of human life. Power can be a force for good when used to advance the well-being of the people, bring peace, and expand the horizons of knowledge. However, power can also be a deadly poison, driving people into corruption, greed, and tyranny. In the grip of power, many leaders lose their way, stray from their noble purposes, and plunge into the depths of cruelty.
The one thing that neither the throne nor power can control is time. Time marches on relentlessly, marking the birth and fall of nations, eroding memories of kings who were once thought eternal. No matter how great one’s power may be, time eventually consumes everything. Empires that once stood firm are now mere ruins, reminders that even the greatest forces cannot withstand the currents of time.
Yet, within the passage of time lies a valuable lesson. Time does not only destroy; it also renews. It gives us the opportunity to reflect and learn from the past, to understand that power is not eternal and that the throne, no matter how powerful, is only temporary. Time teaches us that what truly matters is not how long we hold the throne or how much power we accumulate, but how we use it. History remembers those who were wise in their rule, who used the throne not for personal gain but for the greater good.
In the face of time, all human ambitions appear small and fleeting. Yet, it is within this transience that our true strength lies—the ability to create a lasting impact beyond our own lives. The throne and power may fade away, but the legacy of our actions, the values we uphold, and the positive influence we leave behind are what will endure. Time may take everything away, but it cannot erase the significance of what we have done with the throne and power we once held.
So, as we reflect on the meaning of the throne, power, and time, we are reminded that life is more than just a quest for power or position. It is about how we use the opportunities we have to make the world a better place, about leaving a legacy that will be remembered well by future generations. Time will continue to move forward, but if we are wise in how we wield the throne and power, the impact of our lives will endure beyond time itself. Rahayu.
The author is a sociologist, cultural observer, and media analyst.