January 4th, 2010 by admin

Belief in Supernatural and the Practices associated with it do exist in Bali, as it does in other countries where Hinduism is prominent. But these differ in specific details and actual forms of expression. Here is some info on the various supernatural beliefs and practices in Bali.

Bali Religion and Beliefs

The high priest — usually chosen from the Brahmin social group — presides over large religious rites. On the other hand, the temple priest who takes care of the shrine and leads various holy rites of Panca Yadnya can be from any social order. In Hinduism, the sacred books are the Vedas that came from India. The various beliefs are learned in additional forms too. The most admired of all is the moral plays called Purana, and the classic poems or Itihasa, which include the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Other popular forms included in Bali religious teachings are operas, shadow puppet dramas, and other types of ballets.

Bali Magic

In Bali, magic is a vital facet of the society that is popular with more or less all types of Bali people. It is a serious aspect and is not something you can make fun of. Used by authoritative people, Bali magic can sometimes be in opposition to any person at any instance, to his probable destruction or fatality. These paranormal forces can be classified into various levels of power. To hold off a peril of witchcraft, one can get the services of a shaman trained comprehensively in the topic, and get a talisman, a magical mantra, or any other supernatural article that can help in safeguarding the person or thwarting away evil powers. The assortments of these supernatural stuffs are never-ending. To get resistance to witchcraft, some people visit a place of worship, usually the Pura Dalem, or the graveyard temple of the village. The person then meditates all through night, and if fortunate enough to have the necessary powers of focus, will get a strong power to defy sorcery. The tough inner force achieved can either be used for good or evil – this depends on the individual.

Those were some info on spiritual beliefs and magic rituals of Bali. You can go on a tour to Bali and make a visit to places were these rituals are held. You can also visit the vast number of temples in Bali and appreciate the splendor of the sculptures and temple art.