Otonan, which often gets translated as Balinese birthday, has nothing in common with a “ “normal” birthday.
Neither cake nor gifts. Not even the same calendar.
This ”birthday” is according to the Pawukon calendar , which follows a 210 days sacred circle.
Once in a lifetime, most people decide to celebrate a special OTONAN , which is called OTONAN MEBAYUH.
This ceremony is for neutralizing the so-called 6 enemies, that we call the sad Ripus or sad Aris ( translates as 6 enemies )
Are these enemies outside yourself? No!
They are:
- Kāma = binding desires that will take you on a rollercoaster
- Krodha = anger
- Lobha = greed
- Moha = delusion
- Mada = arrogance
- Matsarya = jealousy
No matter where we are from or how old we are, we are all familiar with these fellows.
The question is:
Has there ever been a ritual to remind yourself to neutralize them?
In Bali, these rituals and ceremonies are there and have been there since ancient times.
Does the ”enemies” go away after a ceremony?
No, but it is a reminder to stay in Dharma, and not get sidetracked with Adharmic actions, words and thoughts.
Also, usually 11 holy waters are collected from 11 different sources.
The Manku (priest ) pours over the birthday boy or girl , as their families and communities are there to help them to get totally soaked.
Another part of this ceremony is going under the basket, which is a symbol of :
Life is so much more than:
LIVE - DIE
We are spiritual beings in a temporary body and mind. We have the powers to make the decisions where this vehicle ( body ) is going, by being in harmony with the karmic laws.
The basket is also a very important part when you have your first birthday, which is when you turn 210 days.
Belief in reincarnation is widespread in Bali, where most people practice a local form of Hinduism.