The religion practiced by the most of the Bali island’s population, is a variant of India’s Hinduism called Hindu-Dharmaism, that teaches that every living organism has both good and evil spirits.

But what the Balinese seek most of all is to be Balinese, and to develop harmony with their family, community, ancestors, gods, and demons in the belief that this conduct will ensure their reincarnation as a happier, nobler being.

Though Balinese faith is not guided by any particular creed, dogma, or scripture, it literally and figuratively colors every aspect of Balinese life.

Religion encapsulates both faith and nationality; life is religion and religion is life.

THE CEREMONIES IN BALI

Prescribed ceremonies last anywhere from 3 to 42 days, depending on the importance of the occasion. Shrines are dressed with cloth and painted brocade or salang (carved wood painted with gold), and sometimes Chinese coins, are hung in the four corners of the shrines.

The ritual ceremonies and festivals in Hindu Balinese can be classified into five types named Panca Yadnya:

• Dewa Yadnya, rites related to the worship of gods such as a temple anniversary or odalan;
• Rsi Yadnya, in reverence to prophets or priesthood, including the ancestors before they have been deified;
• Manusa Yadnya, rites of passage (from conception to just before death); and
• Buta Yadnya, sacrifices to placate the negative or demonic forces that bring misfortune to man.
• Pitra Yadnya, rites related to death;