'Pagerwesi': Protective iron fences
in the mind
Four days after Saraswati Day, Balinese Hindus celebrated Pagerwesi
day. The day is devoted to Sang Hyang Pramesti Guru, the God
of Teachers, Lord of the Universe. Hindu followers pray for
strong mental defence in welcoming the Galungan Holiday.
Pagerwesi Day is held twice a year, as are many other Balinese
Hindu celebrations including temple anniversaries, "Galungan
& Kuningan" day, "Saraswati",
"Otonan" (Balinese birthday celebrations) and many
others based on the Pawukon (the rotation of the moon). The
Pagerwesi falls on the forth day in the Balinese new week of
Sinta, the first of 30 weeks (wuku) that comprise 210 days (7
days X 30 wuku).
The Day is most fervently celebrated in North Bali, Buleleng,
where some people put up "Penjor"
(a tall arched bamboo pole decorated with young coconut leaves)
just as they do for Galungan & Kuningan and where special
offerings are made for the uncremated dead in the cemeteries.
It is usually held at every compound and temple throughout Bali.
Special activities that have particular names are held three
days preceding the Pagerwesi celebration. Sunday, the first
day of the Pawukon, is called Banyu Pinaruh (a day after Saraswati
Day).
On that day locals who live by the sea go to the beach at sundown
and symbolically purify themselves by bathing. The day is considered
special for fishermen who make offerings for their boats and
nets.
Monday in the first week of the Balinese Pawukon is called Comaribek
- although this day is not widely celebrated.
Tuesday is called Sabuh Emas, when one is supposed to make offerings
of jewellery, particularly of Gold and Chinese coins. These
are often used as an important element in the ceremonies.
The word Pagerwesi is derived from the words pager (fence) and
wesi (iron). Wesi is a term used to describe a highly respected
teacher. Pagerwesi literally means that one must control and
protect the knowledge collected from teachers from being utilized
to hurt others.
Source : Indo.com
