Temples, Ceremonies, And Offerings in Bali

 

        Bali is one of the most spiritual places in the world. The people there are dedicated to their relationship to the gods. In Bali, there is a philosophy to live by called Tri Hita Karana or the three causes of happiness. Tri Hita Karana emphasizes achieving harmony in your life by maintaining a good relationship with god or the divine creator, nature, and your fellow human. As such, the people in Bali have a respect for all beings- seen and unseen (niskala). They do this by doing daily offering to both the gods and the demons. Bali is known as the island of temples. Every home has a temple and there are small and big temples all over the island. I was lucky enough to participate in spiritual practices in Bali, such as going to temples, ceremonies, and making offerings.

Tirtha Empul Temple- Water Purification Temple

Ceremony Ready in our Pakian Adat (Customary Clothing)

Family members making ceremony offerings

Tanah Lot Temple- The rice on my forehead and neck is placed after praying in the temple. We also eat raw rice.

Making Offerings in the village