day of silence - nyepi

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INDONESIA SAIJIKI

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Day of silence - nyepi

***** Location: Indonesia
***** Season: Non-seasonal Topic
***** Category: Observance

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Explanation

Nyepi is a Balinese "Day of Silence"
that is commemorated every Isaawarsa (Saka new year) according to the Balinese calendar (in 2012, it falls on March 23rd). It is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation.
The day following Nyepi is also celebrated as New year.

Observed from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, Nyepi is a day reserved for self-reflection and as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. The main restrictions 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.

On the day after Nyepi, known as Ngembak Geni, social activity picks up again quickly, as families and friends gather to ask forgiveness from one another, and to perform certain religious rituals together.

The Melasti Ritual
The Bhuta Yajna Ritual
the Nyepi Rituals
the Yoga/Brata Ritual
the Ngembak Agni/Labuh Brata Ritual
finally,
The Dharma Shanti Rituals

2012 is the Balinese Year 1934.
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Worldwide use

Japan

. New Year Ceremonies .


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Things found on the way



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HAIKU

day of silence -
with incense in my room
my thoughts are quiet

Di hari nyepi
Dengan dupa di ruangan
Pikiran tenang

MiRa Kusuma


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Related words


***** INDONESIA SAIJIKI


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