Temple equipment in Ubud Bali

While checking out the cute little pura (temple) south of Ubud the other day, I got to check out some of the priest’s equipment. Usually this consists of a small hand bell, holy water and other items, necessary for the repetitive ceremonies. Balinese temple priests are called pemangku’s and are responsible for cleaning the temple and its general upkeep.

Administering blessings, sprinkling holy water and taking care of certain ceremonies are part of their job description. The high priests are pedanda’s, and like pemangku’s are dressed in white. Pedanda’s are the only ones who fully understand every Balinese ceremony and can use kawi, ancient Javanese for ceremonies. Pedanda’s wear row of beads around their necks and their job is to communicate with the Supreme Deity.