Gods and Goddesses of Bali

At the heart of the Hindu belief is their gods and goddesses.  In Balinese Hinduism is no different but it has a few unique additions. Balinese Hinduism is actually a mixture of the original animistic belief as well as Buddhism. And because this amalgam of religions, the Balinese people have many gods and goddess, not just the ones worshipped by the Hindu people. There are also many temples dedicated to their worship. You may even be able to see one or two shrines dedicated to them near hotels or Bali villa rental. Here are a few others of their gods and goddesses.

The goddess of waters and fertility, Dewi Danu, has a temple built in her honor on some small islands completely surrounded by water at Batur Lake.  Her temple, a Hindu-Buddhist temple, was founded in the 17th century. It is built in the middle of manicured gardens.  She is one of two supreme deities in Balinese tradition. Her temple is one made up of with a classical Hindu thatched roofed meru, or multi-roofed shrines. These are a truly amazing sight when the light is just right the meru reflect in the water and is the subject of many photos, both by amateur tourists and professional photographers. You may even be able to see the scenic view from your hotel or from a few of the Bali villas for rent.

Another important goddess of the Balinese people; Dewi Sri is the goddess of rice and fertility.  There are special shrines in the rice fields for the worship of Dewi Sri. In modern Balinese Hinduism, Dewi Sri is actually a blend of Hindu goddesses Lakshmi, Devi and Shri. Traditionally, Javanese people who observe Kejawen, have a small shrine, Pasrean or place of Sri, inside their homes dedicated to the goddess, Dewi Sri. This small shrine is decorated her bust or idol.  It is also commonly decorated with intricate carvings of snakes or naga, snake dragons. These followers of Kejawen believe that offering her food and prayers will make her happy so she may give them health and prosperity. If you are staying near a rice farm, make sure to check and see if your room or Bali villa rental has one around on the premises.

The last deity mentioned in this piece is Dewa Baruna. He is the god of the sea. His main temple is Tanah Lot, which means “small island floating on the sea”. The location has been used since the Megalithic period and has been seen as a holy site and has been proven by the presence of a menhir, or a large upstanding stone. The temple is actually two temples in one.  The five storied temple is to honor Dewa Baruna, or his other form, Bhatara Segara.  The second, three storied temple in the northern part is built to honor the Hindu Shiavite priest, Dang Hyang Nirartha.

It may be more convenient to change hotels or Bali villas for rent as you travel to each of these temples. But it doesn’t compare to the amazing architectural designs and inspiring religious meaning of each temple upon the locals and possibly yourself.