 Visiting Places of Worship in Bali
When you are visiting Places of Worship in Bali, you are expected to observe specific rules that are often strictly enforced. These are in place to safeguard the spiritual hygiene of the sacred grounds and observing the conditions of sebel (taboo).
Waist sash to be worn before entering a Balinese place of worship (20 June, 2004)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
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A person is considered in sebel (taboo) under the following conditions:
- Menstruation or having an open wound - that's because shedding of blood is a prohibition in the temple grounds.
- Bringing food into the temple - this clashes with offerings.
- Being physically or mentally ill.
- Being in a state of bereavement - up to 42 days from the death of a close relative.
- Having given birth in the past 42 days - a condition thought to attract the attention of spirits.
Ask permission before venturing into a courtyard; to be on the safe side, it is best to stay at the back of a courtyard until your are invited in. Do not walk in front of anybody praying or performing a ritual. Do not touch temple offerings.
If you are entering a mosque, make sure that your trousers cover the knee. Remove your shoes before entering. Women should cover their heads with a scarf. Some times robes are offered (do not expect it to be always available) to cover any bare shoulders.
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