Full Moon and New Moon Prayers: Purnama and Tilem
Full Moon and New Moon Prayers: Purnama and Tilem
Temple visits recurring with the lunar cycle. The full moon night is considered particularly sacred.
The Balinese Hindu calendar is deeply intertwined with the phases of the moon. Among these, 'Purnama' (Full Moon) and 'Tilem' (New Moon) are considered the most sacred days, occurring twice monthly, when special prayers are offered at temples throughout the island. The Balinese believe the lunar cycle significantly influences not only the natural world but also the human body, mind, and energy. Purnama nights are thought to be when the positive cosmic energy peaks, making it an auspicious time to receive blessings from the gods. Conversely, Tilem nights are when the forces of darkness are believed to strengthen, prompting rituals focused on purification and introspection to protect oneself and maintain the world's balance. This monthly sacred rhythm serves as a guide for the Balinese, helping them live in harmony with nature and feel connected to the cosmos.
Spirituality Living by the Moon's Rhythm
The Saka calendar, widely used in Bali, is a lunisolar calendar where daily life and religious ceremonies are closely linked to the lunar cycle. Purnama (full moon) and Tilem (new moon) are particularly distinguished as religiously significant days. Purnama is believed to be the time when Chandra, the moon god, exerts maximum power, filling the world with light and sacred energy. Prayers offered on this day are thought to reach the gods more easily, making it ideal for expressing gratitude and seeking blessings. Tilem, on the other hand, is the dark night when the moon disappears, and unseen negative forces or malevolent spirits (Bhuta Kala) are believed to become more active. Therefore, people offer special offerings (Caru) and pray to the sun god Surya to dispel darkness and purify the world.
Purnama: Blessings and Gratitude on the Full Moon Night
On Purnama nights, Balinese temples bustle with worshippers dressed in traditional attire. Carrying beautifully arranged offerings of flowers and fruits, they spend quiet moments in prayer with family and friends. This day is considered an excellent opportunity to offer thanks to the supreme God, Sanghyang Widhi Wasa. The bright light of the full moon symbolizes divine grace (anugraha), and bathing in its light is believed to cleanse the body and mind, potentially leading to spiritual insight or inspiration. Many temples host special ceremonies led by high priests involving holy water, along with performances of sacred dances, enveloping the grounds in a solemn atmosphere. For the Balinese, Purnama is a tranquil, sacred time to reflect on daily life and reaffirm their connection with the divine.
Tilem: Purification and Introspection on the New Moon Night
Tilem rituals, in contrast to Purnama, carry stronger connotations of purification and protection against negative influences. The moonless darkness, while potentially unsettling, also provides a quiet opportunity for introspection. On this day, people often place special offerings called 'Caru' on the ground to appease earth spirits and malevolent entities (Bhuta Kala), praying they cause no harm. This reflects the Balinese Dualistic Worldview (Rwa Bhineda), acknowledging the need to respect not only benevolent gods but also the negative aspects of existence to maintain harmony. Tilem is also seen as a day to cleanse oneself of accumulated negative emotions or bad habits and reset the mind. By deeply reflecting upon oneself in the stillness, preparations are made to welcome the new lunar cycle with a pure heart.
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