Ethnomathematics in Borobudur temple based on cellular automata perspective

Borobudur Temple's intricate structure reveals a hidden relationship with cellular automata (CA), a mathematical model used to simulate complex systems. The study, employing descriptive qualitative ethnography and literature analysis, identified that Borobudur's architecture—including its stupas—can be approximated using 1-dimensional, 2-dimensional, and even 3-dimensional CA rules, particularly Wolfram rule 92 and rule 254 with two colors. This discovery bridges traditional Javanese architecture and advanced mathematical concepts, offering a novel perspective on how ancient structures may encode computational principles. The research validates this through expert discussions and digital simulations, suggesting that Borobudur's design embodies principles of self-organizing systems.

Sulistiawati, Turmudi, Arifin, S., & Muktyas, I. B. (2022). Ethnomathematics in Borobudur temple based on cellular automata perspective. Proceeding of International Conference on Frontiers of Science and Technology 2021, 2597, 70060. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0102457