For most Balinese, spirituality is naturally incorporated into their everyday lives - from setting out carefully prepared offerings to the gods, to prayer, meditation, and yoga. Seeing locals practice their religion so peacefully, and with such gentleness, is one of my favorite aspects of life in Bali.
These offerings were laid outside our villa, wth fresh flower petals and incense.
I have also always found the Balinese to be very inclusive with their customs; keen to explain the meaning of different rituals and generally happy for you to watch what's going on. Sadly we missed out on watching the Ogoh Ogoh ceremony on the night before Nyepi two weeks ago, because Rosie was unwell, so we were excited to see the Galungan celebrations today.
Tanah Lot, one of Bali's most famous temples.
Galungan, one of the most important days on the Balinese Hindu calendar, is a celebration of good triumphing over evil, or more specifically Dharma triumphing over Adharma. Bamboo poles, known as penjor, line the streets adorned with hanging offerings for deceased relatives and the gods.
Local worshippers climb the temple steps to present their hand-made offerings to deceased relatives and gods.
We joined thousands of worshippers at Tanah Lot, one of Bali's most famous temples, to pay our respect to the 'island of the gods' and to the wonderful people who have welcomed us into their hearts and home. It was a beautiful and memorable experience.
