Besakih Temple: Largest Hindu Temple as a Mother of Temple
Besakih Temple Enjoying the Majesty of Bali’s Largest Hindu Temple that Serves as a Mother of Temple Do You Already Know About the Biggest Temple in Bali? Besakih Temple is one of the most biggest temple in Bali. THe largest, also very famous as well. This temple is a place of worship for Hindus and also has an interesting history. Besakih temple still standing strong to this day. Until today, it continuesly become an important location for various HIndus religious ceremonies. Besakih Temple also known as the Mother Temple of Bali. This temple keep a rich history. That’s why this temple illustrates the development of Balinese Hinduism as well as the cultural significance of the temple complex. And this is the reason we have to make it as one of the Karangasem Interesting Places to Visit. As a matter of fact, Besakih Temple has a deep historical roots. Going back to prehistoric times when the original Balinese people honored this place with animist practices and also worship of the natural elements. The archaeological discoveries show that the area was considered as a sacred place long time ago. Before the influence of Hinduism. The found several stone structures resembling ancient megalithic sites. That mean that this place already has been used for religious activities for more than 2,000 years. Furthermore, major changes occurred in the 8th century. This was when Hinduism began to enter Bali. At that time Besakih Temple began to develop into a Hindu temple complex. The conquerors from Java arrived in 1284. After that, the temple grew in importance as a center of worship. Then, in the 14th century, under the influence of the Majapahit Kingdom. They expanded Besakih Temple. Cementing its position as the center of Balinese religious life. Finally becoming a pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over Bali. Uncovering the History of Besakih Temple Besakih Temple is Bali’s largest and most impressive temple. Continuesly attracts a steady flow of visitors from both within Indonesia and abroad. Lots of people come to admire its majestic presence. The temple is located in Besakih Village. In the Rendang Sub district of Karangasem Regency. The position is about 52.1 km from Renon. It located on the western slope of Mount Agung. Mount Agung is the Bali’s highest peak. It chosen for its deep spiritual significance. This elevated site is known as Hulundang Basukih. Then now is officially recognized as Besakih Village. The name “Besakih” come from the Sanskrit word “wasuki”. It means “safe”. Or the Old Javanese “basuki” with similar meaning. It is also related to the legend of Naga Basuki. It was a serpent that said to have the power to stabilize Mount Mandara. The Besakih Temple complex is home to the main temple. The main temple called Penataran Agung Besakih. Also with the 18 subsidiary temples. One of the temple is dedicated to Basuki and the remaining 17 serving for other purposes. For that reason it known as the “mother of temples”. Besakih Temple stands as the spiritual heart of Bali. The central to the religious practices of all the island’s temples. Besakih Temple was built in 1284 by Rsi Markandeya. He was a Hindu leader of Indian descent. It is said that he built this temple after hearing a supernatural voice while meditating on the Dieng Plateau. The Meaning Behind Every Building in Besakih Temple Besakih Temple is not just a large building as a place of worship. But also has a deep meaning as a unifying symbol for the Balinese people who adhere to Hinduism. Its existence is closely related to the spiritual meaning of Mount Agung. The Mount Agung is considered to have supernatural powers. Also become an object that must be respected and preserved. The Besakih Temple complex was built following the principle of natural balance reflected in the Tri Hita Karana concept. The arrangement of the building was designed with the cardinal directions in mind. It created a structure that reflects the symbolism of natural balance. Each cardinal direction is called a mandala. Each Mandala has a ruling deity known as Dewa Catur Lokapala. The central mandala serves as the axis. Then these five mandalas are then realized in the form of Panca Dewata. Based on the cardinal directions, the building structure of Besakih Temple is designed in the following order: Penataran Agung Besakih Temple. Located in the center of the mandala. This largest temple is for dedication to the worship of Lord Çiwa. Gelap Temple. Located towards the east. This temple is to worship Lord Içwara. Kiduling Kereteg Temple. Located towards the south. It is a place to worship Lord Brahmana. Ulun Kulkul Temple. Located in the western direction. It is a place to worship Lord Mahadeva. Batumadeg Temple. Located in the northern direction. It is a place to worship Lord Vishnu. Architecture and Cultural Influences of Besakih Temple The architecture of Besakih Temple represent the skill and commitment of the Balinese people. Clearly, they have skill to build great and sacred places of worship. The location of the temple is on the slopes of Mount Agung. As mention above, it is Bali’s highest and holiest mountain. That’s why people conside the temple as the residence of the Gods. This believe adding to its spiritual value. Besakih Temple is a great tourist attraction. Thanks to its architectural beauty and breathtaking surrounding natural scenery. Its proximity to other tourist attractions. For example such as the Edelweiss Flower Park and Bali Jinja Park. Surely it strengthens its appeal to tourists. Each temple within the complex has a precise design. The carvings and ornaments represent Hindu legend such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The magnificent structure of the building has distinctive meru terraced roof. It adds to the elegance and splendor of Besakih Temple. More Than Religious Center Definitely Besakih Temple is more than just a religious center. Furthermore, Besakih Temple also perform as a cultural center for the Balinese people. Every year, thousands of Balinese Hindus come to carry out religious ceremonies and rituals. For instance such as the Eka Dasa Rudra Ceremony. This grand ceremony held once every hundred years to balance the energy of the universe. Clearly, Besakih Temple plays an important role in worship activities. Especially during the full moon and during the Odalan festival. They celebrate these ceremonies once every 210 days. At these times, the temple is festively decorated. Then thousands of Hindus from all over Bali gather to pray and ask
The History of Bali and the Start of Tourism Up Until Today
The History of Bali and the Start of Tourism Up Until Today If you’re interested in learning about the History of Bali, here’s your masterpiece! The history of Bali is a tapestry of cultural richness, spiritual traditions, and natural beauty that has drawn global fascination. From its ancient beginnings to becoming one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, Bali’s journey is as captivating as the island itself. This article explores the detailed history of Bali, including its origins, the rise of tourism, and how it became the paradise we know today. Ancient Beginnings: Prehistoric Bali The history of Bali dates back to at least 2000 BCE, during the prehistoric era when Austronesian people migrated from mainland Asia and settled on the island. These early inhabitants introduced agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, which would become the backbone of Bali’s economy and culture. Archaeological evidence, such as stone tools and megalithic monuments, points to a thriving society by the Bronze Age. The Subak system, a sophisticated irrigation network still in use today, is believed to have originated during this time, showcasing the ingenuity of Bali’s early inhabitants. Hindu-Buddhist Influence (9th to 14th Century) The history of Bali took a significant turn in the 9th century when Hinduism and Buddhism arrived, brought by traders and priests from India and Java. This period marked the beginning of Bali’s unique cultural identity. Temples such as Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) and Gunung Kawi were built during this era, blending Hindu and Buddhist influences. The island flourished under the rule of the Warmadewa dynasty (10th to 14th century), which established Bali as a center of Hindu-Buddhist culture. The reign of King Udayana and Queen Mahendradatta in the late 10th century is particularly notable for the construction of significant temples and the promotion of religious harmony. Majapahit Empire and Balinese Culture (14th to 16th Century) In 1343, the Majapahit Empire from Java expanded its influence over Bali. This period profoundly shaped the history of Bali, as Javanese artists, priests, and intellectuals fled to Bali when the Majapahit Empire began to decline in the 15th century. They brought with them a wealth of cultural and religious knowledge, solidifying Bali’s Hindu traditions and creating the distinctive Balinese culture we see today. The fusion of Javanese and Balinese traditions resulted in the creation of iconic art forms, architecture, and performing arts. Temples such as Besakih (the Mother Temple of Bali) became spiritual and cultural landmarks during this time. The Arrival of Islam and Bali’s Isolation (16th Century) As Islam spread across Indonesia in the 16th century, Bali remained a Hindu enclave. The fall of the Majapahit Empire led to an influx of Hindu refugees, further isolating Bali culturally and religiously from the rest of the archipelago. This isolation allowed Bali to preserve its unique traditions while other regions of Indonesia transitioned to Islamic practices. The royal courts in Bali became centers of artistic excellence, fostering the development of traditional dance, music, and theater. The Balinese caste system, adapted from Hinduism, was formalized during this period and remains a part of Balinese society today. Colonial Era and the Dawn of Tourism (16th to 20th Century) The first Europeans to arrive in Bali were the Portuguese in 1512, followed by the Dutch in the late 16th century. However, it was not until the 19th century that the Dutch established full colonial control over Bali. The Dutch intervention was marked by a series of brutal conflicts, including the infamous Puputan (ritual mass suicides) of Balinese royals in 1906 and 1908 during the conquest of Denpasar and Klungkung. The Early 1900s: Bali Captivates the World Despite the colonial struggles, the early 20th century saw Bali emerge as an exotic destination for Western artists and writers. The history of Bali entered the global stage when European creatives like German painter Walter Spies and Dutch artist Rudolf Bonnet settled on the island in the 1920s and 1930s. They documented Bali’s culture and landscapes, sharing their works with the world. Bali was portrayed as a mystical paradise untouched by time, sparking global curiosity. In 1928, the Bali Hotel in Denpasar became the island’s first modern accommodation, catering to the small number of wealthy European travelers who began arriving via steamships. Post-Independence and the Rise of Modern Tourism (1945–1969) After Indonesia declared independence in 1945, Bali’s tourism remained limited due to political instability and limited infrastructure. However, by the late 1950s, the Indonesian government recognized Bali’s potential as a tourism destination and began promoting the island internationally. The Opening of Ngurah Rai International Airport (1969) The turning point in the history of Bali came in 1969 with the opening of Ngurah Rai International Airport. This major development made Bali accessible to international travelers, leading to a surge in tourism. Around the same time, Bali became known for its surf spots, attracting adventure-seekers from around the world. The 1970s marked the start of Bali’s “backpacker era,” with Kuta Beach becoming the epicenter of cheap accommodations, surf culture, and vibrant nightlife. Tourism Boom in the 1980s and 1990s During the 1980s and 1990s, Bali experienced a tourism boom as the Indonesian government invested heavily in infrastructure and marketing campaigns. Resorts and hotels were developed along the southern coast, particularly in Nusa Dua, Sanur, and Seminyak, catering to high-end tourists. Meanwhile, Ubud emerged as a cultural hub, attracting visitors interested in art, yoga, and wellness. Bali’s reputation as a tropical paradise continued to grow, and by the 1990s, it was firmly established as one of the world’s top destinations. Challenges and Resilience in the 21st Century The history of Bali in the 21st century has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. While the island has remained a top tourist destination, it has faced issues such as environmental degradation, overcrowding, and the 2002 and 2005 bombings that temporarily disrupted tourism. Despite these setbacks, Bali’s tourism industry proved resilient, bouncing back with efforts to promote sustainable tourism. Ecotourism initiatives, cultural preservation programs, and wellness retreats have become significant parts of Bali’s modern
