It was about 1 o'clock in the afternoon when we (me and my colleague, V) arrived at this beautiful scenic place, Tampak Siring. It is a small town in central Bali, home to one of the renowned local historic places, Pure Tirta Empul, the place we would like to explore more for the rest of the day. Upon our arrival at the complex of Tirta Empul we were greeted by the local staff with beaming faces and were given two sarongs before we enter the temple. Here in Bali to wear sarongs is not only an etiqutte but also a token of respect to the Gods.
The complex is massive and surrounded by ancient rectangular ponds. The water flowing from the springs of Tirta Empul is considered to be holy. In fact the word Tirta itself means the holy water. Many local Balinese dip themselves down in the water to purify themselves. To this many this mystical water is believed to have that whimsical power of healing sickness. The water, according to the local folklore, was created by the beat of Indra's cane, one of the Gods in Hinduism during his battle with Mayadenawa. And the holy water magically resurrect the dead Gods who previously drank poisonous water created by Mayadenawa. Their revival helped Indra to win the battle.
Amid the rustling water sprung up from the ponds, we heard the sounds of procession and saw so many villagers dressed up in their incredibly pleasing traditional clothing. The complex suddenly was bursting at seams by hordes of people. The women walking gracefully carrying three layers of basket containing flowers and other offerings to the Gods on top of their heads . The men were holding big penjor made of coconut leaves decorated with colourful flowers. Seeing from their lineament I suppose that thing is heavy. But it looks like their spirit outweigh the heavy burden they carried. I heard the sound of laughters and saw jolly faces all around. The children were also dressep up looking so cheerful and enthusiast for the event they were about to be part of. Apparently, today is our lucky day because a holy ceremony is scheduled to be held and it was about to start.
Visitors are not allowed to enter further down the complex during the holy ceremony. We were still beyond ecstatic though as we got the chance to witness the opening part of the ceremony. It was started with a drama of a King and two of his Generals. Although we did not understand the language completely but we got the idea that the generals basically reported to the King about the process of the ceremony. The King then led all attendees to offer prayers to the different Gods they worship. The song they sang and sound of their musical instruments were vivacious, vibrant yet pleasant at the same time.
Coming from a monotheistic firm believer like me and V, the Hindu Balinese faith is charming eventhough it is hard for us to comprehend. Its charm does not stop in the many Gods it possesses but they continue to further mesmerise us in their intimate relationship with their Gods. Rest assured best effort to please the Gods is what they understand. Despite the showy and ostentatious matters of ceremony their action of faith is somehow executed far from highfaluting, pompous, and pretentious ways. In unexplainable terms, we did feel their humility and fidelity.
Experiencing the intimate relationship of the Balinese and their Gods teaches us with an important lesson of giving gratitude. We were so grateful to be reminded of this valuable lesson that admittedly is often forgotten albeit accidentally. As time goes by, we realise it was almost five in the afternoon. It is time for us to continue our journey. Tirta Empul, this is surely will not be our last acquaintance. We surely will revisit you. Hopefully, sometime in the near future.
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