~ almost silence ~

~ ~ Selamat Hari Raya Nyepi Tahun Caka 1933 ~ ~
Rahajeng Nyangre Rahine Penyepian.. Dumogi Jagat Bali Ajeg.
.. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om ..

The day after the new moon of the ninth lunar month is the Balinese version of New Year's Day, NYEPI. This is a very important and strictly observed religious day. All activity in Bali comes to a virtual standstill.
 

Preparations for NYEPI begin the day before. At sundown, animals are sacrificed and given as offerings to the mischievous evil spirits. In many villages a slaughtered chicken is placed in front of the main gate to placate the negative forces. Afterwards, everyone - especially little boys - bang on anything that makes a loud noise-- including petroleum drums, pots and pans, and pieces of metal roofing and light firecrackers. Women go through each room of the household sprinkling it with holy water while men follow, waving flaming torches to exorcise bad spirits. Later the noisy process of husking rice is performed. Ample food is cooked to feed the family the following day. Nearly everyone stays awake all night and pandemonium takes over each Balinese village, as people alert the evil spirits with shouts, general din and flame.

At dawn there is silence, as NYEPI's observances begin and continue for the next 24 hours. For all Balinese, NYEPI is a time to reflect on the past year and any transgressions that may have been made. People also contemplate on how they can become a better person in the New Year.

It is a day of silence, prayer, fasting and meditation. The Balinese are forbidden to light fires or use electricity; drive or go for a walk outside; listen to the radio or watch television. Family members speak in lowered tones.

no electricity. no fire.. no airplane. and this year, no TV channels. at all.. enjoying d moment. absolutely calm and abandonment.