Pagerwesi

Pagerwesi

      The name literally means iron fence - the day devoted to Sanghyang Pramesti Guru, Lord of the Universe, when Hindu Followers pray for strong mental defense in welcoming Galungan Holiday, held at every compound and temple throughout Bali.

    Temple celebrations at Pura Kehen, Downtown of Bangli; Pura Laban Sindujiwa, Kedewatan, Ubud; Pura Siwa/Pasek Tohjiwa, Penebel, Tabanan; Pura Padang Sakti Tangtu, Kesiman, Denpasar; Pura Masceti Selasih, Sanding Tampaksiring, Gianyar

      Pagerwesi day is also a day upon which an ancient battle between good and evil is celebrated. The three days preceding Pagerwesi have special names and are for special activities. Sunday, the first day of Pawukon is called "Banyu Pinaruh". Many people who live near the sea go to the beach at dawn and symbolically purify themselves by bathing.

This is a special day for fishermen, who make offerings for their boats and nets. Monday is called Soma Ribek, a day that is not widely celebrated. Tuesday is Sabuh Emas, when one is supposed to make offerings for jewelry, especially that of gold and for the Chinese coins that are often used in many kinds of offerings.

          Pagerwesi Day falls twice a year, as do other Balinese Hindu celebrations such as temple anniversaries, Galungan & Kuningan day, Saraswati, Otonan (Balinese birthday celebration) and many others are also based on the Pawukon.