Bali Travel Map

Balinese religion, Agama Hindu Dharma, blends animism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Ancient beliefs in nature spirits are the basis for including other faiths, but the key is keeping a balance in the cosmos and within oneself. The main beliefs are the existence of a single divine being, the individual soul, the affect of actions on future rebirth, reincarnation of the soul, and eventual release from rebirth and union with the divine. Offering to the deities, demons, humans, ancestors, and priests are seen as gifts of thanks or appeasement. Ceremonies can be done almost anytime and anywhere, but auspicious days and temples are best. A pura or temple is a walled place with an inner courtyard containing shrines and pavilions for the visiting deities. Outer areas have cooking areas and performance places. An odalan or anniversary celebration is a festive event with music, dance, offerings, rituals, and worship all happening together; it is as much a time for socializing and entertainment as it is a religious occasion. Visitors wishing to see a temple festival should follow basic rules of etiquette to make their experience more enjoyable, for the Balinese appreciate those who show respect for their customs. Bathe first and then dress in Balinese style or at least decently in clean clothes - no shorts, unsleeved shirts, or skirts above the knees. A sash must always be worn around the waist. Entrance is forbidden to women who are menstruating or who recently gave birth, and to anyone with a bleeding wound or who had a recent death of a close family member. Do not climb structures, event walls, to take photos. If making a close-up, ask the person’s permission or show your intent. Avoid using a flash. Do not bring outside food and drink into the temple . Be on good behavior and avoid sudden actions which may be disturbing, for this is a very important event and visitors are welcomed only if they make themselves properly welcomed.

Bali has been inhabited since early prehistoric times. Fossilized human remains have been discovered from neighboring Java, which are dated to be as old as 250,000 years.

But with the important role of Hindu Religion experts in Bali, these different views and belief is united in a unity of interpretation and then compiled into a book entitled “Compilation of Seminar Decisions on Interpretation of Hindu Religion Aspects I - XV. This book was published by Local Government of Bali in 1999/2000.

Stone tools and earthenware vessels, which were estimated to be 3000 years old, were unearthed near Cekik (west Bali). Other artifacts also show that the Bronze Age began in Bali before 300 BC. Hinduism spread its influence around 400 AD followed by Buddhism in 500 AD.

Hindu Religion

This book stated that Kahyangan Jagad in Bali is divided into two different conception (Rwabineda), such as, Besakih Temple in Karangasem Regency as Purusa (masculine) and Batur Temple in Bangli Regency as Pradana (Feminine).

After the Japanese occupation in the Second World War from 1939 to 1945, Bali became an Indonesian province but was able to maintain its own unique culture.

The belief of Balinese society

The belief of Balinese society on the existence of main temples termed as Kahyangan Jagad of Bali, in Balinese society itself, moreover in spiritual groups, has various and different concept. The difference also happens on the literature of Balinese classic, so there is different perception with different reference.

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