The eschatological traces in the cult of maharsi markandeya an interpretation of samādhi at Pura Pucak Payogan, Bali

Background: This study explores the eschatological dimensions embedded in the veneration of Maharsi Markandeya at Pura Pucak Payogan Bali, particularly through the interpretation of his samādhi (spiritual absorption) as a culmination of sacred life and transcendence. The aim is to analyze how the notion of moksha (liberation) is ritualized, spatialized, and narrated through cultic practices and collective memory within Balinese Hindu communities. Previous studies on Balinese religiosity have primarily focused on ritual systems, ancestral worship, and temple networks, but little attention has been paid to eschatological interpretations of samādhi shrines as sites of spiritual transcendence. Methods: This article adopts a qualitative approach using ethnographic fieldwork, textual interpretation of Hindu philosophical sources (particularly Vedānta and Yoga Sūtra), and spatial-symbolic analysis of the temple architecture and rituals associated with Pura Pucak Payogan. Findings: The findings reveal that Maharsi Markandeya’s samādhi is perceived not merely as a memorial site but as an eschatological axis where the duality between life and death dissolves. This perception is enacted through pilgrimage practices, offerings, and narratives that position the site as a symbolic gateway to liberation. The integration of eschatological doctrine into living religious practices reflects a dynamic fusion of textual philosophy and local ontology. Conclusion: The study concludes that Pura Pucak Payogan functions as a liminal sacred space encoding the ideal of divine union, and that the cult of Maharsi Markandeya offers a living model of eschatological embodiment in the Hindu-Balinese tradition. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this study lies in its interdisciplinary interpretation of samādhi as an eschatological site and in highlighting the fusion of theological vision with ritual practice in contemporary Balinese spirituality

The importance of the teachings of the bhagavad-gita in hindu society in Bali

Background: The Bhagavad Gita is one part of the Vedas, and it is also referred to as the fifth Veda or Pancama Veda. The history of the growth of the Vedas is fundamentally known as the Veda Trayi, which consists of the Rig Veda, Sama Veda, and Yajur Veda. The Atharva Veda contains various magical mantras. Structurally, the Bhagavad Gita is more directed and serves as a compilation of the previous Vedas. This represents a step in the historical development of Hindu thought.In-depth and extensive research has proven that, as mentioned in the Puranas, the codification of the Four Vedas is the greatest achievement of Bhagawan Abiasa (Vyasa). Methods: This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach using interviews and questionnaires to explore how the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are understood and practiced among Hindu students and communities in Bali. The data were collected from student responses and analyzed thematically. Findings: The majority of respondents acknowledge the Bhagavad Gita as a sacred scripture that plays an essential role in shaping values such as dharma (duty), karma yoga (selfless action), devotion, self-control, and emotional resilience. Respondents emphasized its relevance in daily life, particularly in building character, facing modern challenges, and fostering communal harmony. A bar chart analysis revealed that 28 out of 30 respondents stated that the Bhagavad Gita “strongly influences” their daily lives. Conclusion: The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are not only regarded as religious doctrine but also as a comprehensive guide for ethical behavior and emotional well-being in both personal and social contexts. Its philosophical messages remain highly relevant and are deeply internalized by the Hindu community in Bali, especially among students who use its values to navigate contemporary challenges. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study highlights the lived experience of Balinese Hindu students with the Bhagavad Gita, showing how an ancient spiritual text continues to inform practical moral choices in modern society

Swami vivekananda’s perspective on radicalism and extremism: Tolerance, pluralism, and education as strategic solutions

Background: Radicalism and extremism have become phenomena that threaten social peace and political stability across various regions of the world. The teachings of Swami Vivekananda—a prominent Indian spiritual leader and philosopher—offer an alternative perspective for addressing these issues. In an increasingly polarized global context, Vivekananda’s thoughts on religious tolerance, pluralism, and the transformative power of education present a meaningful framework for confronting the roots of radicalization and violence. This study aims to explore Vivekananda’s views on radicalization by emphasizing the principle of ahimsa (nonviolence), appreciation of religious diversity, and education as a preventive tool against extremism.  Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this research conducts a textual analysis of Vivekananda’s works, especially his renowned speeches, to identify core principles relevant to the problem of radicalization.  Findings: The findings reveal that Vivekananda strongly opposed all forms of radicalism and extremism, advocating instead for a deep respect for diversity, peaceful coexistence, and holistic education as a means of cultivating moral character. Conclusion: In conclusion, Vivekananda’s teachings have significant implications for both religious theory and social practice, offering a compassionate, interfaith-based approach to reducing the risk of radicalization in modern society. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study uniquely highlights Swami Vivekananda’s teachings as a humanistic and interfaith-based philosophical framework to counter radicalization through nonviolence, pluralism, and transformative education

An exploration of ancient yoga in Bali: An effort to make Bali a world centre for spiritual tourism

Background: Background: Religion is often considered as a cause of environmental problems. In response to this pessimism, Buddhism through the philosophy of Dharma comes up as revolutionary perspective in shaping contemporary environmental development paradigm, a counter for modern Cartesian-Newtonian paradigm. This philosophy is embodied in the concept of paṭiccasamuppāda applied as “scalpel” on existing environmental problems. Methods: This research uses a qualitative case study to explore the revival of Ancient Balinese Yoga as a spiritual tourism destination. Data were collected through interviews, observations, document analysis, and FGDs. Data analysis included transcription, coding, thematic analysis, and contextual interpretation, with triangulation to validate findings. Findings:  Currently, there are significant efforts to revive Ancient Balinese Yoga as a spiritual tourism destination in Bali. Especially with the increasing of global interest in wellness and spirituality, Bali has great potential to attract tourists seeking authentic spiritual experiences. This involves the restoration and revitalization of traditional practices, including the hosting of yoga retreats, spiritual training, and festivals featuring ancient aspects of Balinese yoga and meditation. The development of spiritual tourism based on Ancient Balinese Yoga focuses on maintaining the authenticity of the practice while adapting to the needs and expectations of modern tourists. Conclusion: By combining yoga training with cultural tours, spiritual seminars, and meditation programs, Bali can position itself as a major hub for global spiritual tourism. Reviving Ancient Balinese Yoga as a spiritual tourism destination also supports the preservation of Bali's cultural and spiritual heritage, provides economic benefits to local communities, and enriches the traveler’s experience with authentic spiritual depth. Novelty/Originality of this article: By bridging Buddhist philosophy with the revival of Ancient Balinese Yoga, this research offers a novel perspective on addressing contemporary ecological challenges, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life and proposing spiritual practices as essential components of sustainable development

The role of rhythm in religious rituals: Supporting the spirituality of Hindu-Buddhist communities in the context of eschatology

Background: Music played an important role in the development of Hindu-Buddhist civilization in Indonesia, especially in spiritual life and religious rituals. Methods: This article explores how rhythm and melody became essential elements in the religious and cultural practices of the people during that time. Findings: Music not only served as entertainment, but also as a medium of connection between humans and the supernatural, creating harmony between the mortal and divine worlds. In the Hindu-Buddhist era, music was often used in religious rituals, such as temple worship ceremonies and offerings to the gods. Traditional instruments such as gamelan and gender were believed to have sacred powers that could purify the atmosphere and improve concentration in meditation. Through music, values of spirituality, harmony and devotion are embodied, reflecting the cosmic concept in Hindu-Buddhist teachings of balance between the macrocosm and microcosm. The article also discusses historical and archaeological evidence that shows the involvement of music in religious rituals, such as the reliefs in Borobudur and Prambanan Temples that depict musical instruments and religious processions. The art of music at that time not only showed a high level of aesthetics, but also became a symbol of community identity and togetherness. Conclusion: This paper discusses in depth the role of music as one of the supports of spiritual life that has helped shape the foundation of Indonesian culture and tradition to this day. Novelty/Originaloty of this article: This study uniquely highlights the sacred role of music in Hindu-Buddhist religious rituals in Indonesia, emphasizing its function as a bridge between the mortal and divine realms, which has been rarely explored in previous research

The Buddha’s Paṭiccasamuppāda: Addressing contemporary environmental development challenges through eschatological perspectives

Background: Religion is often considered as a cause of environmental problems. In response to this pessimism, Buddhism through the philosophy of Dharma comes up as revolutionary perspective in shaping contemporary environmental development paradigm, a counter for modern Cartesian-Newtonian paradigm. This philosophy is embodied in the concept of paṭiccasamuppāda applied as “scalpel” on existing environmental problems. Mehods: This study employs a qualitative approach using library research, analyzing philosophical, religious, and environmental texts. Through content analysis of Buddhist teachings, particularly paṭiccasamuppāda, the study explores its role as an alternative paradigm for addressing environmental challenges. Findings: The findings reveal that paṭiccasamuppāda, or the law of dependent origination, provides a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness between humans and nature. Unlike the Cartesian-Newtonian paradigm, which separates the observer from the observed, paṭiccasamuppāda emphasizes relational existence and balance, fostering ecological ethics based on interdependence. This perspective reduces environmental exploitation and encourages sustainable practices. Conclusion: The study concludes that paṭiccasamuppāda serves as a transformative framework for addressing contemporary environmental issues. By shifting from a dualistic worldview to an interconnected one, it promotes a sustainable development model. Integrating Buddhist ecological ethics into environmental policies and education can contribute to a more sustainable future. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study presents paṭiccasamuppāda as a fundamental principle for reinterpreting environmental sustainability. Unlike previous research that broadly discusses Buddhist ethics, this study specifically highlights paṭiccasamuppāda as a precise analytical tool for addressing environmental issues. By bridging Buddhist philosophy and contemporary ecological challenges, this study offers a novel perspective on sustainability rooted in spiritual wisdom

Tri murti symbolism in candi prambanan: Revealing the cycle of creation, maintenance, and dissolution in hindu cosmology

Background: Prambanan Temple, as a world cultural heritage site, is a silent witness of the Tri Murti worship in Hinduism. Tri Murti, which consists of Brahma (Creator), Vishnu (Preserver), and Shiva (Redeemer), is represented by three main temples in the Prambanan Temple complex, namely Shiva Temple, Vishnu Temple, and Brahma Temple. This research aims to reveal the symbolism of Tri Murti in Prambanan Temple and its relationship with the Hindu cosmological cycle that includes creation, maintenance, and dissolution. Methods: The approach used is qualitative with analytical descriptive method, which examines the architectural structure and arrangement of the three main temples as a representation of the cycle of the universe. Findings: The results show that the arrangement and selection of the three temples illustrate the concept of Hindu cosmology related to the three stages of the life of the universe. This discovery not only confirms the spiritual significance of Prambanan Temple as a place of worship of Tri Murti but also enriches our understanding of Hindu teachings in the context of architecture and space. Conclusions: Tri Murti worship at Prambanan Temple makes an important contribution to the theory of Hindu cosmology and has significant implications for the preservation of Hindu culture and religious practices in Indonesia. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study reveals the unique connection between Tri Murti symbolism and the Hindu cosmological cycle in Prambanan's architecture, which has been rarely explored in previous research

Corpse exposure and cosmological ecology: Ritual, space, and death in an indigenous mortuary landscape

Background: This study explores the distinctive mepasah burial practice observed by the indigenous Trunyan community in Bali, Indonesia, in which deceased bodies are neither buried nor cremated, but instead placed openly on the ground beneath the sacred Taru Menyan tree. In contrast to the widely practiced ngaben cremation ritual of Balinese Hinduism, mepasah reflects a theo-eco-cosmological worldview in which death is regarded as a sacred process of returning the human body to the cosmic order. Methods: Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study draws upon participant observation, in-depth interviews with customary leaders, and analysis of customary law texts (awig-awig). Finding: Findings indicate that mepasah serves not only as a spiritual-ecological expression but also as a subtle form of resistance against the commodification and homogenization of death rituals. The sacred landscape of Sema Wayah, where corpses naturally decompose beneath the Taru Menyan tree, is interpreted as a living deathscape that preserves ancestral harmony and embodies a localized ecological ethic. Conclusion: Utilizing the theoretical frameworks of ecological spirituality and dark green religion, this study reveals mepasah as a form of sustainable mortuary practice rooted in indigenous ecological wisdom and cultural cosmology. Novelty/Originality of this article: The originality of this article lies in its application of a theo-eco-cosmological lens to the analysis of indigenous death rites. It offers a significant contribution to the fields of postmortem body anthropology, spiritual ecology, and relational ontology, while presenting mepasah as a living heritage that bridges ancestral spirituality with ecological reverence for death

Between fire and custom: A study of Indian cremation practices on the Island of the Gods (Bali)

Background: Cremation tradition is one of the ritual practices that has deep meaning in Indian and Balinese culture. This study explores the cremation practices of Indians on the island of Bali, which reflect the intersection between their ancestral traditions and local Balinese customs. In the context of globalization and migration, this study is relevant to understanding the dynamics of cultural interaction and the sustainability of ritual identity in a multicultural society. This research aims to analyze how Indians in Bali carry out their cremation practices, adapting or maintaining traditional Indian elements within the framework of Balinese customs. Methods: The methodology used is qualitative with in-depth interview techniques, participatory observation, and document analysis. Data was collected from the Indian community living in Bali, Balinese traditional leaders, and religious leaders. Findings: The results show that the cremation practices of Indians in Bali are the result of a process of cultural adaptation and negotiation. Although the core rituals continue to reflect Indian traditions, many elements are integrated with Balinese customs, such as the use of cremation sites and the involvement of local communities. This outcome reflects a unique cultural harmony and the sustainability of the tradition amidst the dynamics of social change. Conclusions: This study concludes that the cremation practice of Indians in Bali serves not only as a spiritual ritual but also as a symbol of harmonious cultural interaction. Novelty/Originality of this article: The findings have important implications for cultural anthropology and intercultural studies and can serve as a reference in designing policies that support cultural diversity in a globalized society

Baris wayang dance: Ritual meaning and community perception in balinese hinduism

Background: The Baris Wayang Dance is only performed at the Dalem Beads Upgrading Great Lumintang Temple. This dance is a combination of dance, karawitan , vocal, puppetry, and costume, and is only performed upon the God's vision who lived at the temple occurred. Methods: This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach. To obtain valid data in the field, this study used observation techniques, interviews with key informants and the community in Lumintang village, and literature studies. To analyze the above problems, religious and semiotic theories were used. Findings: The results of the study show that, the form of the Line Wayang Dance performance is composed of the structure of kawitan , pepeson , pengumbang , and pengluwuran ; performed on the basis of the God's vision who resides in the temple; danced by nine dancers while singing the purifying song, and holding puppets that represent Gods; also accompanied by traditional music, the public's perception of this dance performance is understood as a means of purifying and offering sacred offerings to God, the denotative meaning of this performance is reflecting the story of wayang and Hindu religious symbols; this dance connotatively represents the cycle of human life, a form of communication between people and the divine; and at the mythical level it is interpreted as the embodiment of the God's vision. Conclusion: Based on this phenomenon, the problems in this study can be formulated as follows, what is the form of the Baris Wayang Dance performance, what is public perception of the Baris Wayang Dance performance, what is the meaning contained in the performance from a Hindu theological perspective. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this study lies in its unique exploration of the Baris Wayang Dance as a sacred, vision-inspired ritual that integrates multiple traditional art forms to symbolize divine communication and the human life cycle within a specific Balinese temple context