History of Uluwatu Temple Bali – Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu temple located on the southwestern tip of Bali, Indonesia. It is one of the six main temples which are believed to be the spiritual pillars of Bali.
Along with Besakih, Goa Lawah, Tanah Lot Temple, Andakasa Temple, and Luhur Lempuyang Temple. This temple sits atop a cliff jutting into the Indian Ocean, offering stunning sunset views.
History of Uluwatu Temple Bali
The origin of Uluwatu Temple is believed to have been founded in the 10th century by the Javanese Hindu sage, Empu Kuturan. According to local legend, this temple was built to protect Bali from evil spirits, especially an evil sea spirit known as Dewi Danu.
This temple is also believed to serve as a key point of spiritual power, as it was built on the same site where Dang Hyang Nirartha, a Hindu high priest, attained moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death) in the 16th century.
Over the centuries, Uluwatu Temple has undergone several renovations and restorations, the last of which was carried out in the 20th century. The temple is now a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its stunning architecture, witness traditional Kecak dance performances and witness beautiful sunsets.
One of the features of Uluwatu Temple is the population of monkeys that live in the building. These monkeys are considered sacred by the Balinese, and are believed to protect the temple from evil spirits.
However, visitors are advised to be careful and keep their belongings safe, as the monkeys can be quite mischievous and may try to snatch food or personal effects.
Despite being a popular tourist destination, Uluwatu Temple remains an important place of worship for Balinese Hindus. It is a testament to Bali’s rich cultural heritage and serves as a reminder of the island’s deep spiritual roots.
About Uluwatu Temple Bali
This temple was built by Mpu Kuturan or the title Mpu Rajaacreta. There are two different opinions about the history of the temple.
Uluwatu Temple First Opinion
Some people believe that Uluwatu Temple was built by Empu Kuturan in 9 AD, during the reign of Marakata. Mpu Kuturan is a Buddhist priest from the village of Girah in East Java. He came to Bali because of the urge to teach dharma and religion. Murti and refuted Kebulan.
The history of the establishment of the Luhur Uluwatu temple, related to ancient relics or the physical form of the Uluwatu temple, such as Kurung Temple or Kori Gelung Agung in the temple grounds bordering the temple grounds, characterizes this temple as an ancient temple. inheritance.
Its physical form indicates that the Uluwatu temple existed before Mpu Kuturan came to Bali. However, no inscriptions have been found stating the exact year this temple was founded, because several sources say this temple was built on the advice of Mpu Kuturan.
Uluwatu Temple Second Opinion
Other people claim that Uluwatu Temple was built by Dang Hyang Nirartha. Dang Hyang Nirartha came from Java to Bali during the reign of King Gelgel, namely Dalem Waturenggong who had many names or titles, namely Dang Hyang Dwijendra, and Ida Pedanda Sakti Wawu Rauh.
Danghyang Nirartha came to Bali in 1489 AD during the reign of Dalem Waturenggong, Danghyang Nirartha came to Bali for dharmayatra, but his dharmayatra never returned to Java.
The priest during his Tirta Yatra journey in Bali had built several temples in remote parts of the island of Bali, including the Uluwatu Temple which is located on the Pecatu hill, after completing the mission of the Tirta Yatra spiritual journey.
Danghyang Dwijendra returned to Uluwatu Temple to receive revelations. He moksa (died and his body disappeared), left Marcapada (worldly life) and entered Swargaloka (heaven).