TIRTA IN BALINESE HINDU TRADITION

Abstract

Bali’s Hindus are known as “Agama Tirtha,” or the religion of holy water, because holy water, or Tirtha, has always been an integral part of Bali’s Hinduism. Water is a powerful symbol with many meanings, including cleansing, healing, and warding off evil forces. The use of holy water is crucial in religious ceremonies held anywhere from private homes to public temples. Holy water is water that has come from a holy source and been blessed by a holy priest.

The tirtha’s power and sanctity are determined by the water’s origin, the mantra recited during its blessing, and the person who performed the ritual. Sacred water is sourced from holy springs, mountain springs (such as the spring at the peak of Mount Agung) for major festivities on the island