Are you interested in learning about the vibrant culture of Bali? Perhaps you are carefully planning a tropical getaway or simply researching Indonesian customs?
Nicknamed the "Island of the Gods," Bali is known for more than clear turquoise waters and gorgeous green forests. This island is a very spiritual and religious place, which has helped shape its profound traditions and colorful culture.
Keep reading to learn more about the culture and traditions of Bali.
Key Takeaways
- Balinese people practice Hinduism, which was likely introduced to the island through Indian culture and traditions.
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Nature plays an important role in the daily life of the Balinese, and it is often incorporated into architecture and religious ceremonies.
- The Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana is centered around building a prosperous and balanced relationship with God, people, and nature.
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Jamu is an ancient Indonesian approach to health that often involves drinking herbal tonics made with ginger, turmeric, and palm sugar.
See Related: The Importance Of Self-Care For Your Health
The Basics Of Balinese Culture
#1. Balinese Hinduism
Bali is an island located in Indonesia. This tropical province is a vacation hotspot, attracting thousands of international tourists each year. However, unlike the rest of the Indonesian archipelago, which practices Islam, Balinese people practice Hinduism.
There are two major theories as to how Hinduism was introduced to Bali. The first theory is that South Indian sea traders brought Hinduism to the island in the first century. The second theory is that Indonesian royalty embraced Indian religion and customs before the masses followed suit.
Balinese Hinduism, also known as Agama Hindu Dharma, is a unique form of Hinduism. It is deeply embedded into the daily life of the Balinese people. Balinese Hinduism is a mix of ancestor worship, local animism, and spiritual beliefs.
In fact, Bali as a whole is a very spiritual place and is aptly nicknamed the "Island of the Gods."
#2. Nature
The religion and spirituality of Bali is complemented by the beauty of nature. From white sand beaches to glowing rice fields to dense green jungles, the landscape of Bali was handcrafted by Mother Nature. Nature influences many parts of Balinese everyday life, from religious ceremonies to traditional architecture.
#3. Aesthetics
The Balinese people are masters of design, and their picturesque temples are a blend of centuries-old traditions and aesthetic interior design. They have crafted buildings that feature natural ventilation, high rooting, and wooden framing, which emphasizes harmony and balance.
Shrines and temples are maintained to a high set of standards, which further stresses the importance of religion in Balinese life.
The Balinese people use their skills as artisans and designers to create a highly aesthetic environment. Through intricate carvings, patterned clothing, delicate flowers, various gifts, and aromatic incense, they are able to create a happy and welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
#4. Tri Hita Karana
The Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana is a way of life that guides spiritual and religious practices. Also known as the "three causes of well-being," Tri Hita Karana is centered around building and maintaining a prosperous, healthy, and balanced relationship with god, people, and nature.
It is widely believed that adopting this way of life will bring prosperity, harmony, and happiness.
#5. Etiquette
The traditional greeting in Bali is the Sembah salute, followed by the phrase "Om Swastiastu," which means "May peace be with you." However, a warm and friendly smile is the best universal greeting in Bali, as this is how Balinese people connect with friends and strangers alike. A handshake can also suffice.
Gestures like pointing can be considered rude. Avoid using your left hand for doing things, as the left hand is considered "dirty" in some Asian countries, including Indonesia. When giving or taking items, always use both hands.
#6. Offerings
It is common in Bali to gift Canang Sari, which are small offerings to religious figures. These offering baskets are made from palm leaves and usually contain a collection of flowers, fruits, plants, incense, and coins. Other items like biscuits, rice, or cigarettes may be added. These daily offerings are made to the god of Balinese Hinduism, Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, each day.
#7. Balinese Dance
Balinese dance is a cornerstone of their culture and traditions. These performances blend enjoyable comedy with epic drama, encouraging the audience to revel in timeless tales of good versus evil. Many talented Balinese dancers are trained from the young age of seven.
There are various types of Balinese dance, including wali dances and Bebali dances. These performances are usually accompanied by traditional Balinese music like Gamelan music.
#8. Festivals
There are many festivals that are constantly taking place in Bali. The local people take part in these celebrations by dressing in traditional clothing and enjoying music and dance. There are various religious holidays in Bali, including Nyepi, Galungan, and Kuningan.
Jamu: The Ancient Indonesian Wellness Traditions
Jamu is the name of a ginger and turmeric herbal beverage that is often used to promote overall wellness, prevent sickness, and soothe the senses. However, it also refers to a form of age-old healing ritual that was created in Indonesia two thousand years ago.
Indonesia has many ancient traditions and wellness customs that have been practiced for centuries. Jamu involves using herbal tonics, self-care, and mindfulness to encourage balance, harmony, and happiness inside and out.
Because each island of the vast Indonesian archipelago is so spread out, each island has developed its own approach to Jamu. The recipes for Jamu beverages were usually made with whatever natural and local ingredients the island's inhabitants had on hand. For example, Jamu in Bali was often made with turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass, while Jamu in Java may have been made with tamarind, ginger, and palm sugar.
Now, there are endless variations of Jamu available based on available ingredients and wellness goals. In Bali and all across Indonesia, Jamu continues to be an integral part of their customs and traditions.
As more and more people embrace the healing powers of Jamu, it's become a worldwide phenomenon. Recently, Jamu was officially recognized by the UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).
Jamu is at the center of the skincare and wellness brand JUARA. At JUARA, we wholeheartedly believe in the overwhelming power of mindfulness, joy, and self-care when applied to wellness. This holistic approach to health and beauty is rooted in ancient Jamu rituals and other Indonesian customs.
We use Jamu-inspired ingredients in our skincare products, such as ginger, tamarind, and clove, for healthy and happy skin that treats your mind and body with compassion.
To learn more about Jamu customs and Indonesian history, check out this book by JUARA co-founder Metta Murdaya. Jamu Lifestyle: The Indonesian Herbal Wellness Tradition is a rich book filled with beautiful pictures and exquisite stories of Indonesian Jamu.
Bonus: How To Plan A Spa Day At Home
Final Thoughts
Bali has a rich and vibrant culture that has stood for thousands of years. Their colorful traditions and ancient customs are deeply engrained into their everyday life, visible in everything from religious temples to general etiquette.
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