Experiencing Balinese Hindu-Buddhist culture and customs has profoundly influenced my life in many positive ways. Bali's simple lifestyle and their reverence for nature have opened my eyes to a greater appreciation for my surroundings. As humans, it is essential to love our environment and our planet, lead a life rooted in pure love, and engage in constructive conversations to facilitate personal growth. Sometimes, it can be challenging for people to understand cultures and religions different from their own. However, if we shift our focus away from debating which religion is superior and instead embrace the idea that a good life can be found in any belief system as long as it fosters happiness, good health, and love.
During this journey, I learned to take life one day at a time, to pause, take a deep breath, and embrace my true self, both physically and personality-wise. The temples we visited provided me with the perfect setting for this self-discovery. If you're someone looking to strengthen your connection with yourself through self-love, Balinese Hindu-Buddhist culture offers an excellent path for meditation and self-acceptance.
First and foremost, you need to show love and respect for others, their religions, and their customs. Some may fear that appreciating another religion will weaken their own faith. However, the truth is that if your connection with your faith is strong, no one can diminish its significance in your life. Instead, you can explore the commonalities between belief systems and recognize our shared humanity. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, you must have a genuine desire to learn. Without a genuine curiosity and willingness to learn, you won't truly experience the culture of any place you visit. With that in mind, let me share how the Goa Gajah and Gunung Kawi Temples impacted my life and soul.
The Goa Gajah Temple
Walking into the Goa Gajah Temple, I immediately sensed an indescribable presence. Despite its modest size, the temple exuded spirituality through its incense, intricate carvings, and an overall mysterious atmosphere. The carvings within Goa Gajah were truly astonishing and left me in awe. Also known as the Elephant Cave, the Goa Gajah Temple was constructed in the ninth century as a sanctuary and a place of worship. It served as a hub for meditation and inner reflection, explaining the powerful emotional experience it offered.
From a distance, one could catch a glimpse of the temple, its ancient stones, and the soothing aroma of relaxation, a scent that seems to permeate the air. Breathing in the greenery surrounding the temple, along with the fragrant incense and burning offerings, inspired a profound sense of relaxation and encouraged me to embrace life one day at a time. The Goa Gajah Temple allowed me to connect with my own mind and with nature.
Gunung Kawi Temple
The Canang Sari, an offering adorned with meaningful colors representing a gesture of peace, is meticulously prepared by Balinese women as an offering to their gods. At the Gunung Kawi Temple, we had the privilege of witnessing a man crafting the Canang Sari. The aroma was captivating, and the craftsmanship was nothing short of artistry. Built in the eleventh century, the Gunung Kawi Temple houses several temples within its grounds. Descending three hundred steps, one arrives at a temple situated beside the Pakerisan River.
Walking through the Gunung Kawi Temple felt akin to strolling through a vibrant, life-filled garden. When I travel, I often find myself reflecting on various aspects of my life—my past, my relationships, and the people who have come and gone. This reflective process is essential for my soul's growth. The Gunung Kawi Temple provided me with the space and serenity to connect with my inner self. It reminded me that everyone carries their own battles, for which others are not to blame. My journey to Bali came at a perfect juncture in my life, allowing me to introspect, reconnect with my soul, and rediscover my true self.