Bali Tourism News

This Paradise, Bali

August 25th, 2008

By Nadia Ghattas

Every thought, word, and movement, and every dress and costume are dedications to an almighty creator. Bali’s culture and philosophy is based on the traditional Hindu/Buddhist concept of “Tri Hita Karana.” This philosophy stresses the balance between human and god, human and human, and human and environment to form a harmonious life.

Once you step onto the island, you will feel that harmony. All these relationships should be in balance. This morally binding philosophy and the beauty of the island make Bali a magnificent and magical place to be—a paradise on earth, keeping in mind the warmth of its people and their endless smiles and friendliness.

Functional Spiritual Practice

Bali is steeped in history and culture. When you visit the island, it seems as if you’ve stepped into a bygone era. It is part of the Indonesian archipelago and, although Bali’s history is somewhat unclear, it is said that the first settlers in Bali emigrated from China in 2500 B.C. From this migration, the Bronze era and a very effective system of irrigation and agriculture of rice (subak) which is still used today and was created around 300 B.C.

During our short stay, we went to the southern part of Bali to see this ingenious, traditional irrigation system called subak. This system is based on Hindu wisdom and values. You will be amazed to see the magical views of terraced rice fields, which are unlike most rice fields in the world. It is as if they are etched in the hills or along the volcanic mountains, following the natural flow of the land and creating an incredibly magnificent view even on the smallest land areas.

Subak is based on the traditional Balinese calendar and on the physical, social, and cultural components derived from the Tri Hita Karana rule, which the leaders have to follow. That is why the Balinese have been able to protect and preserve the culture, the resources, and the environment that is passed on relatively intact from one generation to the next.

Kerta Masa (planting at the same time) is applied to keep the ecosystem in balance, with farmers using their traditional calendar which they believe is more precise about weather and is good for planting crops. This method also controls pests and conserves water. Balinese believe that disaster and disease come about due to imbalance and conflict between man and nature.

Island of Temples

This paradise, Bali, is also known as the Island of the Gods or the Island of the Temples. There are as many as 20,000 temples in which to adore the glory of gods in their many manifestations. It symbolizes religious unity and the inheritance of the Belanese ancestors.

You will see in every village at least three big temples (puras). For Brahman, it’s Vishnu and Siva. Every temple has the statues for all three—Brahma for creation, Vishnu for sustaining the creation, and Siva for destruction, which is considered the nature of the cycle of life. Every city also has one big temple so all people can pray there.

For Hindus, there are many temples surrounding Bali that were established during the Bali Ages—around the 5th to the 8th centuries—and still exist today. The temples are used not only for worship but also to experience peacefulness and tranquility.

Be careful; don’t step on it, please. As part of their daily activities, the Balinese fill little baskets made of bamboo or banana leaves with flowers, fruits, water, and incense and place them by the puras or in front of their homes, businesses, and even the cash registers. These are people’s offerings to the gods to show their respect and appreciation while asking for peace and protection from evil.

After seeing the rice fields, we had to rush to the Temple Tanah Lot. It challenges time standing majestically on top of a cliff that juts out over the ocean. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean while the sun sets and watch the believers carrying offerings on their heads—baskets full of flowers, fruits, and vegetables—as they walk toward the temple.

Bali Delights

After a long day of travel, anyone would certainly want to pamper and relax the body and enjoy a nice traditional meal. Bali is full of spas, available everywhere. We went to The Royal Heritage Spa where you will be treated royally from the moment you step in. We were greeted with one of the most delicious and refreshing drinks you can have, which was made with ginger and natural sugar. After a great massage and a body scrub made from the rich natural minerals and fruits and spices of Indonesia, you can sip on the ginger drink while soaking in the herbal baths.

From there we went and feasted at the Manega Café at the Jimbaran area located in the southern part of Bali. The restaurant is on the white, soft sandy beach. You pick the different fish for your meal by the entrance and then are escorted to the tables placed right by the beach. The meal, along with the stunning sounds of the waves dappled with the reflection of the moon, leaves you with unforgettable memories. Oh, Bali, what have you done to me?

Source: http://en.epochtimes.com/

Entry Filed under: Bali Tourism News