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Saraswati Day July 4, 2020 Saraswati Day, also known as ‘knowledge day’ is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, the arts, wisdom and learning. This day is observed every 210 days on Watugunung (the last week of the Balinese calendar). The philosophy of Saraswati Day is that the most important thing for human life is knowledge. “Saraswati” is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘sara’ and ‘swaandthi’ that together represent ‘the one who gives meaning’ or ‘the one who is a stream of knowledge’, able to impart wisdom to those willing to receive it. An alternate interpretation is that “Saras” refers to flow and “wati” means woman. Therefore, Saraswati as a symbol of knowledge flows like a river and is very interesting, much like a beautiful woman. Saraswati is often regarded as a source of inspiration for those wishing to go beyond mere sensory pleasure and ultimately gain enlightenment. It is believed that without the goddess, the world would be filled with chaos, confusion and ignorance. In Balinese folklore,

Saraswati is often depicted as a beautiful four-armed goddess, riding on a white swan (symbolizing prudence) among water lilies (or lotuses, symbolizing holiness) each arm holding a zither (string instrument – symbolizing that science develops through the growth of culture), scriptures (lontar or traditional book representing science or knowledge) and rosary beads (genitri - symbolizing knowledge which is never ending). Saraswati Day is celebrated across Bali in temples, homes, schools and offices. On this holy day, Balinese Hindus give thanks to the goddess through dance, offerings, rituals, songs, prayers, and gatherings. On the afternoon of Saraswati Day, the Balinese avoid reading or writing as books are offered to the Goddess Saraswati. As evening falls (also referred to as Malam Sastra), people read religious books at home or in the temples to honour the Goddess.

Pagerwesi Day (The Day of Wisdom) July 8 Pagerwesi is one of the holiest days in Bali and is celebrated every 210 days in the Balinese calendar. Observance of Pagerwesi coincides with the celebration of Saraswati – the day of knowledge. The reason for this is that after the celebration of knowledge and divine inspiration during Saraswati, Pagerwesi is observed to protect and shield this knowledge and inspiration from forces of evil. Pagerwesi is derived from two words: “pager” meaning fence and “wesi” meaning iron. The iron fence is a symbol of strong self-protection and on this day, it is suggested that one surrounds themself with strong fortifications to ensure that evil does not enter their minds, speech and deeds and to avoid harm to their surroundings. On this day, Balinese Hindus honour the Sang Hyang Pramesti Guru (also known as the deity Siva) as the “teacher” of the universe, responsible for wiping out all bad and evil entities in the world. Sang Hyang Pramesti Guru teaches people how to live their life appropriately, without succumbing to bad behavior and evil desires. This is a day where the Balinese strengthen their minds and souls against evil forces. Pagerwesi is also called “rerainan gumi” by the Balinese, which refers to a holy day celebrated everyone from all backgrounds - from the families of priests to common families.

Tumpek Landep July 18 Tumpek Landep is a Balinese ceremonial day when offerings are made for objects that are made of metal. The word tumpek means ‘close (to)’ and the word landep means ‘sharp’. In the early days of Balinese Hinduism, the keris (dagger) was one of the few objects that was made of metal. The keris was a weapon commonly used in battle and regarded as a holy spiritual object with magical powers, playing an important historical role and still does today. The keris is also symbol and a metaphor which instructs you to be as ‘sharp’ as possible in your thinking. On Tumpek Landep, Hindus on the island pay their respects to metal items especially the keris - which is believed to possess spiritual powers. Tumpek Landep is celebrated every 210 days according to the Balinese ceremonial Pawukon calendar, on the Saturday of its second week, Landep. This day is also referred to as Saniscara Kliwon Landep. Ceremonies begin in the morning at village temples, where people gather to present offerings and pray to God for their tools made of metals such as iron, bronze, gold etc. Afterwards, at home compounds, additional ceremonies and blessings are performed. In modern times, other objects that contain metal, such as computers, may be honoured. At the household level, Hindus provide offerings for kitchen utensils such as knives, stoves, cutlery and other metal items supporting household life. Farmers create offerings for tools such as sickles, hoes, tractors, ploughs etc. that support their livelihoods. Most Balinese people believe that these ceremonies and blessings will bring them luck and keep them safe.