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Bali
Bali, one of over 18.000 islands
in Indonesia, is famous for its scenic beauty, dynamic culture,
and friendly people. Located just south of the equator, tropical
Bali traditionally has a hot, wet season (November - March)
and a cool, dry one (May - September). Towering volcanoes,
some still active, contain large lakes which provide water
for irrigating thousands of terraced rice fields, enabling
up to three harvests per year. Over the centuries the Balinese
culture has proven itself very resilient, managing to blend
influences from Asia and West with their own traditions. Buddhism
arrived from India during the early centuries of the first
millennium followed later by Hinduism and trade contacts with
China. Relations with Java began in the 11th century but full
Javanese control of Bali did not come until 1334 and lasted
only just over 100 years.
Bali's tourism has brought spectacular
economic growth, a thriving hotel industry, and major improvements
to transportation and communication facilities. The international
fame of Bali's culture has also brought a heightened sense
of identity among the Balinese. Many villages produce arts
and crafts, present music and dance performances, and hold
elaborate religious ceremonies. As always, the Balinese take
everything in their stride, absorbing and adapting from different
sources. They are a flexible people, welcoming new ideas but
at the same time retaining a unique life-style guided by their
religious, social and cultural traditions.
Religion And Temples
Balinese religion, Hindu
Dharma, blends animism, Buddhism and Hinduism. Ancient beliefs
in nature spirits are the basis for including other faiths,
with a key focus on maintaining a balance in the cosmos and
within oneself. The main tenets are belief in a single divine
being, the individual soul, reincarnation of the soul, the
effect of present actions on future rebirths, and eventual
release from rebirth and union with the Divine. Offerings
to the deities, demons, humans, ancestors, and priests are
seen as gifts of thanks or appeasement. Ceremonies can be
done almost any time and any where, but auspicious days and
temples are preferred. A pura or Temple is a walled-in space
with an inner courtyard containing shrines and pavilions for
the visiting deities. Outer areas have cooking areas and performance
spaces. An odalan or anniversary celebration is a festive
event with music, dance, offerings and ritual worship : it
is as much a time for socializing and entertainment as it
is a religious occasion. Visitors wishing to see a temple
festival should follow basic rules of etiquette as the Balinese
appreciate those who show respect for their customs.
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