Sacred Animals of Bali | Religious Significance of Monkeys, Cows, Turtles, and Snakes
Sacred Animals of Bali | Religious Significance of Monkeys, Cows, Turtles, and Snakes
Hanuman (Monkey God), Nandi (Shiva's sacred bull), the turtle and snakes in the cosmic creation myth. The relationship between animals and deities.
In the world of Balinese Hinduism, animals are not merely creatures coexisting with humans; they hold profound religious significance as incarnations or vehicles (vahana) of gods, or as key figures in mythology. Blending Hindu teachings with Bali's ancient animistic beliefs, a culture venerating specific animals as sacred beings has evolved. Prominent among these are Hanuman, the monkey god hero of the Ramayana epic, and Nandi, the loyal bull vehicle of Lord Shiva. Furthermore, the creation myth assigns crucial roles to a giant cosmic turtle supporting the world on its back and to snakes (Naga) that maintain universal balance. Understanding the stories of these sacred animals is key to deciphering the deeper meanings embedded in Balinese temple carvings and dance performances.
Hanuman, the Monkey God: Symbol of Loyalty and Courage
The veneration of monkeys in Bali is largely due to Hanuman, the white monkey god hero from the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. Hanuman demonstrates immense loyalty, superhuman strength, and courage in helping Prince Rama rescue his wife, Princess Sita, from the demon king Ravana. His story is deeply familiar to the Balinese through performances like the Kecak Dance and Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry). The monkeys inhabiting places like the Ubud Monkey Forest are believed to be descendants of Hanuman's sacred army, and people treat them with reverence. Hanuman remains a widely worshipped symbol of courage in facing adversity and unwavering devotion.
The Sacred Bull Nandi and His Bond with Shiva
Similar to Hinduism in India, cows are considered sacred animals in Bali. This reverence stems from the bull being the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva, one of the three principal deities, who governs destruction and regeneration. This sacred bull is known as Nandi, and statues depicting him seated facing the main shrine are invariably found at the entrance of Shiva temples. Nandi is regarded as Shiva's most devoted servant and acts as an intermediary, conveying worshippers' prayers to the deity. Cows also symbolize fertility and life force. In the cremation ceremonies for the highest Brahmana caste, a colossal coffin (Lembu) shaped like a bull is used, symbolizing the vehicle carrying the deceased's soul to the heavens.
The Cosmic Turtle and Snakes (Naga) Supporting the Universe
In Balinese Hindu Cosmology, the turtle and snake play vital roles in maintaining cosmic stability. It is believed that the world rests upon the back of the giant World Turtle, Bedawang Nala. Coiled around this turtle are two immense serpents or Naga, named Anantaboga and Basuki. These Naga are believed to maintain the equilibrium of the world and guard subterranean treasures and wealth. This Cosmology is reflected in temple architecture, where magnificent carvings of Naga frequently adorn staircase banisters and gateways. These sacred creatures symbolize the belief that the world inhabited by the Balinese is sustained by unseen, divine forces.
Related Culture & History
FeaturedTraditional Balinese Dances: Legong and Barong
Classical dances nurtured by royal court culture and mythology. Unravel the meanings behind each gesture.
Barong and Rangda: The Tale of Good and Evil
The eternal balance between good and evil. Differences between ritual performances and tourist shows.
Subak: The Terraced Rice Field System of Water and Prayer
Bali's unique irrigation network, sharing water through community agreement.