Besakih Temple

Historical Origins and Founding Period

The historical roots of Pura Besakih extend far beyond the influence of the Majapahit Hindu kingdom in Bali. Based on archaeological evidence such as menhirs, stone thrones, and tiered structures at the Pura Batu Madeg complex, experts conclude that this location has been a sacred site since the megalithic era. Prehistoric Balinese communities worshipped Mount Agung as a sacred entity, believed to be the abode of their ancestors.

Textually, the history of Pura Besakih is recorded in the Lontar Raja Purana Besakih. The central figure associated with the early construction of this complex is Rsi Markandeya, a holy hermit from India who traveled from Mount Rawung in East Java to Bali in the 8th century AD. Legend has it that in his first attempt, Rsi Markandeya's entourage failed due to an epidemic. After deep meditation, he returned and planted five precious metals known as Panca Datu (gold, silver, copper, iron, and bronze) along with gemstones at the location now known as Pura Penataran Agung Besakih. This ritual marked the establishment of Basuki, which later evolved into the name "Besakih," derived from the Sanskrit word "Wasuki," meaning safety.

Architecture and Construction Details

Pura Besakih is not a single building but a colossal complex comprising 86 temples, including one Pura Penataran Agung as its center and 18 accompanying temples. Its architectural style follows the concepts of Tri Hita Karana and Loka Samasta, which harmonize humans with God, nature, and fellow beings.

The unique architecture of Besakih lies in its tiered structure that follows the contours of the mountain slope. Pura Penataran Agung has seven levels of terraces symbolizing the layers of the universe in Hindu cosmology. On each level, there are Pelinggih Meru with tiered roofs (tumpang) whose numbers are always odd (from 1 to 11). The construction uses sturdy black volcanic stone and teak and ulin wood for the upper structures, while the roofs are made of black ijuk (palm fiber) taken from the aren palm tree, giving an ancient yet majestic impression.

One of the iconic elements is the towering Candi Bentar (split gate) at the main entrance, symbolizing the separation between the material and spiritual worlds. Within this complex, there is also the Pelinggih Padma Tiga, a unique structure dedicated to the manifestations of God in the Trimurti concept: Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.

Historical Significance and Important Events

Pura Besakih has witnessed the transitions of power in Bali. In the 15th century, as the influence of the Majapahit Kingdom grew, Besakih was elevated to the Royal Temple for the Gelgel and Klungkung dynasties. This event solidified Besakih as the official center of worship for all kings in Bali.

One of the most devastating historical events, considered a miracle, occurred in 1963. At that time, Mount Agung erupted violently. Hot lava flows destroyed surrounding villages, but miraculously, the lava flow split and bypassed the main buildings of Pura Besakih without destroying them. This event is believed by the Balinese people to be divine protection and further strengthened their faith in the sanctity of this site.

Related Figures and Periodization

Besides Rsi Markandeya, another important historical figure is Dang Hyang Nirartha, also known as Pedanda Sakti Uluwatu, who undertook a major restoration in the 16th century. He reorganized the temple layout and expanded the worship concepts more systematically.

In terms of periodization, Besakih has gone through several important phases:

1. Prehistoric Era: As a mountain worship site (megalithic).

2. Ancient Bali Era (8th - 13th Century): The arrival of Rsi Markandeya and the influence of the Warmadewa Dynasty.

3. Majapahit and Gelgel Era (14th - 18th Century): Transformation into a State Temple and the construction of large Merus.

4. Modern Era: Recognition as a National Cultural Heritage Site and a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage.

Preservation and Restoration Status

The Indonesian government, through the Cultural Preservation Center, regularly maintains the physical structures of the temple. Due to its location in a volcanic disaster-prone zone, early warning systems and evacuation routes are part of the site's management.

Major restorations were carried out after the 1963 eruption and continue periodically to replace weathered ijuk roofs. In 2023, the government inaugurated a comprehensive renovation of the sacred area of Pura Besakih, including the construction of multi-story parking facilities, SME areas, and the clearing of main paths from street vendors to preserve the solemnity and aesthetics of this historical site.

Cultural and Religious Importance

Pura Besakih is the heart of the Balinese Hindu liturgical calendar. Every year, the Bhatara Turun Kabeh ceremony is held, attracting thousands of pilgrims from all over the archipelago. The pinnacle of its religious significance is the Eka Dasa Rudra ceremony, a ritual of universal purification that is only performed once every 100 years.

Sociologically, Besakih is a unifier of castes and groups in Bali. Through the existence of Pura Padharman (ancestral temples for specific clans or lineages) within the Besakih complex, every Balinese person feels a blood and spiritual connection to this place.

Another unique historical fact is that the layout of Pura Besakih is designed based on the Dewata Nawa Sanga concept, which represents the nine guardian deities of the cardinal directions. Pura Penataran Agung is located in the center, surrounded by other temples representing the north, south, east, and west, making Besakih a microcosm replica of the universe itself. As a historical site, Pura Besakih is not just a relic of the past but a living monument that continues to breathe with the spiritual pulse of the Balinese people.