Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most famous tourism icons and holds deep cultural and spiritual value to the local community. Situated on a rock jutting out into the sea, the temple offers stunning sunset views, making it a major attraction for tourists from all over the world.
In addition to its natural beauty, Tanah Lot Temple is also an important place of worship for Balinese Hindus, who believe it is dedicated to the guardian deity of the sea. The magical aura and spectacular panoramas make Tanah Lot Temple a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Island of the Gods.
The history of Tanah Lot Temple is very interesting to know. This temple has existed since the 15th century or 1500 AD. This holy place was one of the centers of the spread of Hinduism in Bali at that time.
History of Tanah Lot Temple
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The history of Tanah Lot Temple has a long story. Based on legend, it is said that Bhagawan Dang Hyang Nirartha or known as Dang Hyang Dwijendra was on a mission to spread Hinduism from Java to Bali in the 15th century.
King Dalem Waturenggong as the ruler of Bali at that time welcomed the arrival of Dang Hyang Nirartha in carrying out his mission. The spread of Hinduism eventually succeeded in influencing the population to embrace Hinduism until remote areas in Bali.
On his way to spread Hinduism, Dang Hyang Nirartha, saw a holy light from the south sea of Bali. He headed to the location of the rays which turned out to be on a beach in the village of Beraban Tabanan. The village of Beraban Tabanan was led by Bendesa Beraban Sakti who strongly opposed the teachings of Hinduism. At that time, the leader of this area adhered to monotheism.
Dang Hyang Nirartha then finally meditated in this village, precisely on a rock on the land that looked like a parrot. However, the leader of the area did various ways to expel Dang Hyang Nirartha from his meditation place.
Knowing Bendesa Beraban’s intention, Dang Hyang Nirartha finally moved the rock where he meditated to the center of the beach using spiritual power. This rock was later named Tanah Lot.
To protect his small coral island, Dang Hyang Nirartha also created a venomous sea snake from the power of his shawl. This sea snake is believed to live at the bottom of Tanah Lot to guard the temple from intruders and evil people.
Seeing the greatness of Dang Hyang Nirartha, the leader of Tabanan finally believed in the magic of Dang Hyang Nirartha. He eventually became a Hindu along with the rest of the local population.
After becoming a follower of Dang Hyang Nirartha, Bendesa Beraban was given a kris. This kris has the benefit of eliminating diseases that attack plants and is kept in Puri Kediri.
Every six months, an offering ceremony is held for the kris at Tanah Lot Temple. After the gift of the kris, the local villagers have abundant crops so that the people live prosperously.
The history of Tanah Lot Temple that has been told above is an extraordinary event that occurred in Bali during the spread of Hinduism.
Myths of Tanah Lot that are still believed today
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Tanah Lot or Tanah Laut located in Beraban Village, Kediri District, Tabanan Regency, Bali, is often a tourist destination. Tanah Lot symbolizes the romance of Bali Island. Just like its name, Tanah Lot does have a unique beach. Tanah Lot is also home to a famous icon in Bali, Tanah Lot Temple.
Tanah Lot Temple is quite unique because it is located about 300 meters off the coast. Tanah Lot Temple is believed to date back to the 16th century according to Dang Hyang Nirartha, a respected religious figure in Bali.
Apart from its history, there are three myths of Tanah Lot that some people still believe today.
1. Couples End Quickly
It is said that if you bring your partner to Tanah Lot, your relationship will end quickly. Many locals still believe in this myth. However, this myth seems inaccurate because many couples who come to this place claim their relationships are fine. Even many foreign tourists honeymoon to this place. Perhaps this myth developed to maintain the sanctity so that the place is not used for negative things.
2. Sacred Snake Guarding the Temple
In addition, there is also a myth about the holy snake guarding the temple. The snake in this place is a type of sea snake that can be very deadly. In fact, the snakes there are very tame. In fact, it is said that the snake in a cave can grant requests as well as guard the temple.
3. Holy Water Can Keep You Young
Another myth that people believe is that the water in Tanah Lot can keep people young. Many visitors come to prove the myth for themselves, but there has been no research on the truth of this holy water.
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