Bali Religion and Culture

Religion and Ceremonies

Religion and ceremonies are a large part of the Balinese culture and define the lives of most Balinese people. Unlike the majority of Indonesia, which follows the Islamic faith, over 90 percent of Bali's population follow the Balinese Hinduism religion. Temples, offerings of food and flowers, incense and images in the arts and crafts are all signs of the island's faith

Religion

Balinese Hinduism (or Agama Hindu Dharma) mixes aspects of Buddhism, Hinduism and animism, which is the belief that souls and spirits can be found in all things. Balinese Hinduism comes from the religious influences of China, India and Java.

One of the central beliefs of Balinese Hinduism is that the soul (atman) is reincarnated several times until it reaches paradise. This journey depends upon the person's deeds, both good and bad, during his or her lifetime.

Instead of having set periods of time devoted to their religion, Balinese Hindus incorporate their religion into every aspect of their lives. Their lives are filled with religious rituals, such as making offerings, and they strive to maintain balance between good and evil and the gods and demons in order to prevent chaos.

Balinese Hindus are not required to study sacred books or follow a set of religious guidelines. Instead, they perform other rituals to please the gods. Dancing, singing and the arts and crafts are all ways of pleasing the gods. Children learn to dance from an early age for this purpose. Making daily offerings, participating in village events and temple procedures are all seen as religious actions.

Offerings to temples and sacred places are very common on Bali, and this is a part of everyday life for Balinese Hindus. Offerings can range from a few of grains of rice to cooked chickens or pigs, and are dependent upon personal wealth. Women often carry offerings on their heads to the shrine or temple, and offerings are made to gain the favour of the gods.

Drama is an important part of life for Balinese Hindus, and this is most evident in their many ceremonies. From birth to death a person will be the cause of many celebrations throughout their life. These are all celebrated with mountains of food, brightly coloured clothing, and dance and drama.

There are many gods in Balinese Hindusism, but they are all belived to be the rays of the one supreme god - Sanghyang Widhi. Depending on what they are praying for, Balinese Hindus pray to different gods. The three main Hindu gods that are worshipped are Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Brahma is the creator, Shiva is the destroyer and Vishnu is the protector.

There are other religions practised by the Balinese, including Buddhism, Christianity and Islam..