These Mesmerising Family Temples are Unique to Bali
Bali is the cosmic country of Family Temples, the promised land of devotion also synonymous with beaches. During my recent trip to Bali, I was oriented with the concept of Family Temples. I noticed that each house in Bali had its family temple. To say the least, these are as grand as any other prominent temple you’ll see in the city. The exteriors of these temples are bedecked with exquisite architecture and adornments that are easy to confuse with a predominant house of worship.
The walls are daubed in vibrant colours, and the roofs showcase captivating figures. All things considered, these temples are so gorgeous that you feel compelled to stroll straight in and explore them more. The villagers place a high value on these family temples. They not only worship Gods here but also their forefathers. The reason why strangers are not let inside. I did, however, have the chance to chat with a local who consented to discuss the essence of his family temple.
He explained the significance of a Balinese Family Temple, emphasising the value of honouring ancestors and God Almighty. Family temples are typically pitched at the Kaja-Kangin corner of the home, according to what I’ve learned. It’s the eastern direction, which faces the holy Gunung Agung Volcano. These family temples are referred to as Pemerajan or Sanggah depending on the lower or higher caste structure. Regardless of whether of the two options is chosen, the temple is always located outside, in a quiet area of the house property.
A Balinese Family temple is often composed of bricks and is raised higher than the rest of the home. The family prays to the holy shrines of Ida Sang Hyang Widhi and Bhatara Gods, as well as the Leluhurs, the Balinese translation of ancestors, inside these temples. The family prays and makes contributions to these shrines on a daily basis. Pelinggih Ratu Ngurah, Kemulan Taksu, and Pelinggih Taksu are the three mandated shrines in each Bali Family Temple. The temples are always preserved in top shape, regardless of the size of the family.
The most important is Kemulan Taksu. This temple has a roof above it and is divided into segments. These parts are devoted to Lord Vishnu (left), Shiva (middle), and Brahma on the right. The temple of deified ancestors is known as Kemulan Taksu. Pelinggih Ratu Ngurah is also dedicated to Ratu Ngurah, the Bhatara’s amanuensis. He keeps an eye on human behaviour. This single-sectioned roofed shrine has a single section.
On the other side, the Pelinggih Taksu is a single-section temple dedicated to Taksu, the God of Talent. Balinese people believe that Lord Taksu’s benevolence determines whether they succeed or fail. Upacara Yadnya, or holy sacrifice, refers to the rites performed inside a Balinese Family Temple. Yadnya emanates from the Sanskrit term Yagya, which means worship. In total, five different forms of Yadnya are conducted in Bali.
Yadnya performed before Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, Rsi Yadnya to introduce religious teachings, Pitra Yadnya for ancestral spirits, Manusa Yadnya for humanity, and Bhuta Yadnya to counterbalance the forces of nature. Yadnyas performed in everyday life are known as Yadnya Sesa or Mesaiban. Upacara Yadnya for marriages, temple anniversaries, exorcisms, and other ceremonies take place inside a family temple. Imperative offerings are prepared on Full and New Moon days. A sacred shrine, Penunggun Karang, is also placed outside the temple to protect the family, the family temple, and the dwelling from the spirits.
You must first obtain permission from the house owner to visit the family complex or the Family Temple. Although, you may still enjoy the gorgeous architecture from the outside if you can’t go inside. I was mesmerised and beholden when I returned, and you will be as well.
