As one of Indonesia’s most popular travel destinations, Bali is home to a vibrant mix of cultures and traditions that have earned it the name ‘Island of the Gods’. As such, in addition to its incredible sceneries, travellers have plenty to explore from temples to cultural rituals to vibrant festivals. Here are some of the key aspects of Balinese spiritualism that are at the heart of the island’s vibrant culture.
Balinese Hinduism
Balinese Hinduism, also known as Agama Tirta or ‘Science of the Holy Water’ is the main religion followed in Bali. It incorporates several interpretations from Chinese, Javanese and Indian beliefs and places great emphasis on group worship.
Philosophy
Central to Balinese religious beliefs is the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana or “Three Causes of Goodness”. It focuses on maintaining a harmonious relationship between God, nature and people, and emphasizes that elements of mother nature are spiritually influenced. Accordingly, the locals believe that Mount Agung is the home of the gods while many other spirits both good and evil are believed to dwell in the sea.
Temples
Bali has over 20,000 Hindu temples with each having its function and rituals for the Balinese calendar. There are various types of temples including water temples, sea temples, village temples, family temples and public temples. While in Ubud Bali, things to do are plenty including visiting several of the island’s iconic temples like the Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple and the Tirta Empul Temple just a short distance from Anantara Ubud Bali Resort.
Rituals and Traditions
The Balinese people practise several rituals and traditions for each stage of a person’s life such as birth, puberty, maturity, marriage and death. Other notable ceremonies take place on important days like Nyepi (the day of silence), Galungan and Kuningan. Preparing offerings made of agricultural products is also a significant aspect of local worship.
