Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is one of the six key directional temples in Bali. Its exact founding date remains uncertain, but historical records suggest that the temple dates back to at least the 9th century, with evidence of an ancient candi kurung (split gateway) bearing a candrasengkala (chronogram) indicating the year 808 Isaka (886 AD).
The temple’s development is often attributed to Mpu Kuturan, a highly influential Hindu sage who arrived in Bali during the reign of King Sri Msula-Masuli in the 11th century. Mpu Kuturan introduced the concept of Tri Kahyangan, which classified Balinese temples into three spiritual centers: village temples, mountain temples, and sea temples. Uluwatu Temple was established as a sea temple, meant to protect Bali from negative spiritual forces coming from the ocean. Its dramatic location, perched on a 70-meter-high limestone cliff, symbolizes its role as a guardian of Bali’s southwestern coastline.
The Role of Uluwatu Temple in Balinese Hindu Culture
Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s Sad Kahyangan, or six holiest temples, strategically placed around the island to maintain spiritual balance. It serves as a guardian of the southwest direction, protecting Bali from negative forces and aligning with other directional temples to create a sacred grid of energy.
The temple is dedicated to Shiva Rudra, the manifestation of Lord Shiva as the god of transformation and dissolution. Balinese Hindus regularly visit Uluwatu Temple to offer prayers, seek blessings, and participate in religious ceremonies, particularly during Piodalan, the temple’s anniversary, which is celebrated every 210 days according to the Balinese Pawukon calendar.
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