Tooth Filing Ceremony (Metatah): A Rite of Passage to Adulthood

Filing the six 'evils' (lust, anger, greed, etc.). Canine teeth are filed to attain human qualities.

Metatah, also known as Potong Gigi (tooth cutting/filing), is one of the most significant rites of passage in a Balinese Hindu's life. Performed on adolescents, it involves filing the upper six teeth, including the canines, level with a metal file. This ceremony is not merely cosmetic; it's a symbolic act of chiseling away the six negative, animalistic traits inherent in humans – known as 'Sad Ripu' – such as uncontrolled desire, anger, and greed. It signifies the transition into becoming a 'complete human' endowed with reason. Adorned in magnificent, often royal-like attire, the young participants are the center of this grand ceremony, attended by the entire extended family and community. It celebrates individual maturation while simultaneously reinforcing community bonds, making it a vital social event.

The Ritual Transformation from Animal to 'Human'

Traditional Balinese thought holds that humans are born with strong animalistic instincts and desires. Sharp, pointed canine teeth, in particular, symbolize uncontrolled lust and aggression, considered characteristics of demons or wild beasts. Therefore, filing these teeth flat during Metatah is seen as an essential process for overcoming these animalistic tendencies and becoming a rational human being capable of emotional control. Only after undergoing this ceremony was a person traditionally considered a fully-fledged member of society, eligible for marriage. Metatah represents the parents' final and most crucial religious duty in guiding their child towards becoming a 'true human.'

Filing Away the Six Evils: 'Sad Ripu'

The six upper teeth filed during Metatah (two canines and four incisors) are said to correspond to the six negative traits, 'Sad Ripu,' believed to reside within the human heart. These are: ① Kama (uncontrolled desire/lust), ② Lobha (greed), ③ Krodha (anger), ④ Mada (drunkenness/confusion), ⑤ Moha (infatuation/attachment), and ⑥ Matsarya (jealousy/envy). Through the physical act of filing the teeth, participants symbolically vow to overcome these negative emotions and mature spiritually. During the ritual, participants are given a mirror to observe their teeth being filed. This is a crucial moment for introspection and renewing their resolve to live a better life.

A Vibrant Celebration Strengthening Family Ties

Metatah is performed amidst a very festive and celebratory atmosphere. The adolescents undergoing the ceremony are dressed in opulent, gold-embroidered costumes and elaborate headdresses, resembling princes and princesses. The ritual is conducted by a high priest (Pedanda) from the Brahmana caste, who chants complex mantras while gently filing the teeth with a sacred file; there is usually little to no pain involved. Numerous relatives and villagers are invited to witness the ceremony, which is followed by prayers and a large feast. Due to the significant expense, it's common for several families to hold the ceremony jointly. While celebrating an individual's coming of age, Metatah also serves as an occasion for families to display their pride and reaffirm the strong bonds of mutual support within the community.

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