The magnificent Besakih Temple is situated in the town of Besakih on the western slopes of the hill known as Mount Agung. It holds the distinction of being the largest, the most important and most venerated Hindu temple in Bali. It is one of an array of scenic temples in Bali. Besakih Temple is referred to as the Mother Temple in recognition of its great significance. The visitor will also enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding verdant countryside offered by the site.
Besakih village is located in Balis eastern section. The word Besakih is derived from Basuki which is in turn a derivation of the Sanskrit term Wasuki meaning salvation. In the local mythology Besuki is an appellation of Naga Besukian, a dragon-god who is said to have resided at Balis largest volcano, none other than Mount Agung.
The magnificent temple compound has been considered a place of veneration for many centuries. It is mentioned in an inscription dated to 1007 AD and was the major Hindu temple in Bali from the 15th century.
The actual temple compound comprises of twenty-two separate temples located on parallel ridges. Several flights of stairs and terraces at the site lead up to numerous brick gateways and courtyards from which the main spire may be reached. The traditional Meru structure of the main spire is known as Pura Penataran Agung. This is the principal sanctuary and symbolic centre of the temple; it contains the venerated lotus throne (Padmasana) which is the spiritual focus of the complex.
The temple compound is thought to represent the fundamental Balinese belief that earthly life must be conducted with regard to a harmony and balance between God and man, man and his natural environment and man with his fellow human beings.
On full moon days a multitude of devotees congregate on the temple to conduct activities of worship. The temple is vibrantly decorated during the Odalan Festival, which is observed every 210th day.
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