INTERESTING SIGNS AND CUSTOMS OF BALI

Birthdays, planets and the Balinese calendar

The Balinese place great importance on birthdays and also believe that each day of the week is associated with a specific planet. The day of the week on which you were born will determine your character and destiny. For example, Monday is associated with the Moon and is considered a day for people with intuition and emotional sensitivity.

Weddings

Weddings in Bali are magnificent ceremonies, rich in symbolism and ritual. One of these customs is the ritual of worshiping the gods. Couples have been making sacrifices in temples and asking for blessings from deities for thousands of years. Balinese also practice tearing coconuts at weddings: Balinese residents associate the complexity of life with the complexity of this bizarre ritual.

Worship of the gods before meals

Balinese culture also places an important place on food and the rituals of its preparation. The Balinese often perform food rituals, giving thanks to the gods before eating.

Fear of number 4

There are many superstitions in Bali, one of the most famous is the fear of the number 4, as it is associated with death. Many Balinese avoid using this number, so for example house numbers may be replaced with 3A instead of 4.

Protecting children from evil forces

The Balinese try to protect their children from evil forces. To protect against evil spirits, children are sometimes coated with cosmetic powder and put on amulets to divert the attention of negative forces from them. We'll talk more about amulets below.

Trimurti Cross

This amulet is a symbolic image of the three gods of Hinduism - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. It is used to attract prosperity and balance in life.

Amulet Ganesha

Ganesha is the god of wisdom and good fortune in Hinduism, and his image is often used as an amulet in Bali. He is considered the patron of luck.

Round amulets (Keke)

These round amulets made from palm leaves or other natural materials are used to ward off evil spirits. They can be placed on entrance doors, windows and important places in the home.

Balinese masks

Masks are part of many religious and traditional Balinese dances. They can be used as amulets for protection and to bring good luck. Each mask usually has its own unique symbolism.

Balinese swords (Chris)

The Kris is a traditional Balinese sword with a curved blade and decorative handles. It is considered a magical amulet and is used to protect against evil forces.

Amulets made of precious and semi-precious stones

Various jewelry and semi-precious stones such as coral, jade and tourmaline can be used as amulets to attract good luck, health and longevity.

Horn amulets

Buffalo and cow horns are often used as amulets in Bali. They are considered a symbol of strength and resilience and can be placed in homes or worn as jewelry.

Bamboo amulets

Bamboo items such as bracelets or necklaces are also popular amulets. They are worn to ward off evil spirits and bring protection.

Tourists can purchase many amulets and attributes of the spiritual life of the Balinese at local markets. The most popular of them is the market in Ubud. Visit it and be sure to check with local residents about the meaning of the amulet you are purchasing.

The Balinese believe in the power of spirits and gods, and religious practices occupy an important place in their daily lives. They visit temples and make sacrifices to appease the gods and ensure the well-being of the family. Prayers and meditations are often carried out in the rhythm of mantras, which gives them a special impact.

Balinese Hinduism

Balinese Hinduism is a unique form of Hinduism that is mixed with Balinese traditions and beliefs. It focuses on the cult of ancestors, spirits and nature gods. The main deities in Balinese Hinduism are the Three Wise Ones (Trimurti) - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. We have already talked about this divine triad above, when we talked about amulets.

Temples and sacred places

Bali is known for its many temples and sacred places. Temples are the center of religious life and cultural events. One of the most famous temples is Ulun Danu on Lake Bratan, which is dedicated to the goddess of lake and water.

Sacrifices

Sacrifice plays an important role in Balinese Hinduism. The Balinese regularly bring flowers, fruits, sometimes money and other items to the temples as a sign of gratitude to the gods for all the blessings and favors of the gods.

Rites and ceremonies

The island of Bali is rich in rituals and ceremonies related to religion. One of the famous rituals is Melas - a purification ritual that is performed on the beaches to invoke the god of the ocean. Wedding ceremonies, funeral rituals and many other ceremonies are also held.

Roles of sacred native animals

Some animals, such as monkeys and cows, are considered sacred in Bali. Monkeys, for example, are considered ambassadors of the gods and live in many temples.

Connection with nature

The Balinese believe in the close connection between man and nature. They make sacrifices and perform rituals to respect and maintain balance in nature.

Spirits and the invisible world

Balinese Hinduism also believes in the existence of spirits and the invisible world. According to the Balinese, many places and natural monuments have patron gods. Gods and spirits are seen as active participants in life and require respect and worship.

Bali's beliefs permeate every aspect of the lives of its people. They serve as the basis for many traditions, customs and ceremonies, making Bali a unique and spiritual place.