NYEPI

NYEPI

Nyepi is a new year for Hindu religion especially in Bali, nyepi is celebrated according Balinese calendar (in 2012 it celebrated on march). Nyepi is mean the day of silence. Usually a new year is celebrated with party, concert or firework but nyepi is different, nyepi is day for meditation and self reflection.

It is begin from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning. The main restrictions in nyepi are: no lighting fires (and lights must be kept low); no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no traveling; and for some, no talking or eating at all. The effect of these prohibitions is that Bali’s usually bustling streets and roads are empty, there is little or no noise from TVs and radios, and few signs of activity are seen even inside homes. The only people to be seen outdoors are the Pecalang, traditional security men who patrol the streets to ensure the prohibitions are being followed.

Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, non-Hindu residents of Bali observe the day of silence as well, out of respect for their fellow citizens. Even tourists are not exempt; although free to do as they wish inside their hotels, no one is allowed onto the beaches or streets, and the only airport in Bali remains closed for the entire day. The only exceptions granted are for emergency vehicles carrying those with life-threatening conditions and women about to give birth.

There are fourth main rituals in a chain of nyepi, such as :

1.      The Melasti Ritual is performed 3-4 days beforehand. It is dedicated to Sanghyang Widhi Wasa. The ritual is performed in Pura (Balinese temple) near the sea (Pura Segara). Melasti ritual usually accompany by bleganjur or Balinese traditional music.

2.      The Bhuta Yajna Ritual is performed in order to vanquish the negative elements and create a balance with God, Mankind, and Nature. The ritual is also meant to appease Batara Kala by Pecaruan offering. Balinese young man usually make ogoh-ogoh, ogoh – ogoh is a demonic statues made of bamboo and paper symbolizing negative elements. After the ogoh-ogoh have been paraded around the village or city, the Ngrupuk ritual takes place, which involves burning the ogoh-ogoh.

3.      Nyepi Rituals are performed as follows:

1)      Amati Geni: No fire or light, including no electricity

2)      Amati Karya: No working

3)      Amati Lelunganan: No travelling

4)      Amati Lelanguan: Fasting and no revelry/self-entertainment

4.      Ngembak Agni/Labuh Brata Ritual is performed for all Hindus to forgive each other and to welcome the new days to come.