Joining a Balinese Family at Mother Temple of Besaki | Exploring the Bali Hinduism

Bali Hinduism, also known as Agama Hindu Dharma, is a unique form of Hinduism practiced in Bali, Indonesia. It is a blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and animism, and has been heavily influenced by the island's history, culture, and geography..
Bali is an island in Indonesia with a rich cultural heritage and spirituality, where every house has its own temple. Temples in Bali are the epicenter of keeping Hindu traditions and ancient culture alive, and for many travelers, experiencing the Balinese Hindu culture is a highlight of their visit. Here are the chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:23 About Besaki Temple
02:13 Going to Besakih Temple
03:55 Father's side ancestor's temple prayer
05:22 Meru in Balinese temple
06:24 Worshipping at Besakih main temple
The mother temple of Besaki, located on the slopes of Mount Agung, is the largest, most important, and holiest temple in Bali. The temple complex is made up of 23 temples that sit on parallel ridges across six levels. Besaki temple has multiple family temples for different clans in Bali, where locals offer their prayers to their ancestors. In this article, we will explore the experience of worshipping at the mother temple of Besaki with a local Balinese family.
The journey to Besaki temple is a unique experience, and it can be even more special when shared with a local family. Ancestor worship is an essential part of Balinese Hindu culture, and during this ritual, the family offers prayers to Lord Shiva, the god of ancestors in Bali, at Pura Dalem Puri temple before proceeding to the Besaki temple. On the way to Besaki temple, the roadside shops are closed as the shopkeepers have moved to another nearby temple where a bigger event is going on.
Besaki temple is a breathtaking place, with grandeur temples situated at different terraces, making it even more awe-inspiring. This temple complex is a place where one can connect with their inner self and experience the magic of Bali's culture and traditions. The temple has multiple levels, and the family's ancestral temple is located at the fourth level, where the father's side of the family offers prayers.
After a meet and greet with the priest, the family teaches the visitor how to pray in the Balinese Hindu way. A Prayer in Bali is not just about asking for something, but also expressing gratitude and asking for blessings. After offering prayers to the ancestors on the father's side, the family proceeds to the ancestral temple of the mother's side of the family before finally offering the final prayer at the main temple. The main temple houses the trinity of Hinduism, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
The spire-like structures in Balinese temples are called Meru, the principal shrine of a Balinese temple. The multi-tiered Meru towers usually use Ijuk, which are black Aren fibers. The Meru tower is identified with Mount Meru of Hindu mythology, the abode of the Hindu gods. The multi-tiered roofs are the most recognizable feature of the Meru towers. The number of roofs is always odd and reflects the status of the deity to whom the shrine is dedicated.
The prayer happens in groups in the main temple, where devotees place offerings and sit in lines behind the main priest who leads the prayer. The intricate carvings and statues, colorful offerings, and the sound of temple bells create an incredibly enchanting atmosphere in the temple. The entire family is incredibly welcoming and kind, explaining the significance of each aspect of the ceremony and answering all questions throughout the journey.
In conclusion, worshipping at the mother temple of Besaki with a local Balinese family is an enriching experience that gives a deeper understanding of Balinese culture and spirituality. Bali is a place where one can connect with their inner self and experience the magic of its culture and traditions. This experience is highly recommended for anyone visiting Bali, as it provides a unique opportunity to connect with the locals and learn about their customs and beliefs.

[@anupamsingh9834]

Enlightened with Bali's way of following Hinduism. Beautiful Bali🛕🛕