Tirta Empul Temple

 17 Mei 2022   

The Tirta Empul is one of the ancient temples or temples that still stand firmly in Bali. Founded in 926 AD, the Hindu temple is claimed to be one of the largest and busiest in Indonesia. When viewed from the architecture and relief in it, Tirta Empul has been built specifically as a form of dedication to the God Vishnu.

Tirta Empul Bali is located not far from the town of Tampaksiring in the village of Manukaya. This village can be reached by a 30-minute drive from the North Ubud area. Finding this temple is relatively easy because along the way there are already many instructions available. In Balinese, Tirta Empul has the meaning of a source or holy spring. No wonder that many Hindus come every day, specifically to perform rituals of purification in a special pool in this temple.

Swimming or commonly called Pertirtaan is indeed one of the main attractions of Tirta Empul Temple when viewed from the religious side. Formerly, the source of water in this temple is often used by residents and also visitors for drinking, bathing, and other daily activities. But in August 2017 the water quality in Tirta Empul Bali was declared to have decreased and it was forbidden to drink because it was declared to contain E Coli bacteria.

Like other temples, Tirta Empul was also made to worship one of the Trimurti or the three main Deities in Hinduism. Tirta Empul Temple was made for Lord Vishnu. This swimming pool isn’t only a place of self-relaxation but also as a tourist attraction that is preferred by tourists. There are also royal heritage sites in this village area. Those who want to clean themselves in a pool of holy water must be willing to stand in line, both men and women. The name of the temple was taken directly from the Tirta Empul water source. In the Hindu language, Tirta Empul means water that gushes out from the ground.

Before plunging into the pool, Hindus pray to the Gods. Then walk to a pool where there are 13 holy water showers. Upon arrival, they immediately soaked and first climbed the prayer, then washed their faces slowly. Around the shower, there are some offerings called Canang Sari.

The Melukat ritual isn’t over here, proceed to a Tirta and climb back to prayer and clean up. After getting wet in the pool, they dry themselves and change clothes. Then all the people gathered in the inner courtyard.

However, to take part in this ceremony, tourists must follow the rules set by the temple. These include the use of sarong cloth tied to the waist. By the Balinese Hindu community, the sarong is one of the mandatory facilities when carrying out prayer ceremonies held in temples.