Metatah Procession: A Tooth-Filing Tradition as a Symbol of Maturity and Purity Hindus in Bali

Metatah comes from the word "tatah" which means to cut. This procession is a ritual that has been carried out for generations in Balinese culture, with the main purpose of eliminating negative traits within an individual and at the same time enhancing their self-quality. Thus, a person is expected to become a better individual in daily life, able to face challenges, and contribute positively to society.

In its implementation, the Metatah procession is not just carried out randomly, but is accompanied by solemn prayers and traditional ceremonies. Family and close relatives usually attend to provide support and prayers for the participant undergoing the ritual. The presence of loved ones not only adds to the sacred atmosphere of the procession but also strengthens the social and spiritual bond between the individual and their community.

Mejaya-jaya (Source : Private Collection)

The Mejaya-jaya ceremony is a prayer ritual performed to seek blessings and protection from God (Ida Sang Hyang Widhi) and the ancestors so that the Metatah ceremony can proceed smoothly and be full of blessings. During this prayer, participants will ask for spiritual purification, preparing themselves to undergo the tooth-filing process and face the transition to adulthood.

The ceremony begins with the participants being presented to the customary leader or Pemangku, who will lead the prayers and bestow blessings. After the prayers, the tooth-filing process is carried out using a special tool called a "Pangikir". In this process, the upper canines are filed down as a symbol of removing arrogance, while the other teeth are smoothed to create balance in the individual's character. Once the ritual is complete, participants are expected to start a new chapter in their lives, embodying positive qualities and a heightened spiritual awareness.

Metatah Ceremony (Source : Private Collection)

The main ceremony begins with tooth-filing, where symbols of negative traits in humans, such as Sad Ripu (the six main enemies), namely anger (krodha), greed (lobha), lust (kama), hatred (dvesha), envy (matsarya), and ignorance (moha), are symbolically filed away. Each filing of the teeth represents the release from these negative influences, which have long been considered obstacles to achieving wisdom, the purity of the soul, and a harmonious life.

Tooth-filing is not just a physical act, but also a strong symbol of spiritual transformation and self-control. At the moment the teeth are filed, participants are expected to reflect on controlling their desires and emotions that can damage their lives. This is the time when they release the negative aspects within themselves and resolve to live more wisely, patiently, and lovingly.

Ngerajah (Source : Private Collection)

After the teeth are filed, the person undergoing Metatah is asked to taste six flavors: bitter, sour, spicy, astringent, salty, and sweet. This is known as Ngerajah. Each of these flavors carries its own significance. The bitter and sour flavors symbolize the endurance needed to face the harsh realities of life. The spicy flavor serves as a reminder to be patient in the face of situations that provoke anger. The astringent flavor symbolizes obedience to the prevailing rules or norms. The salty flavor signifies wisdom, while the sweet flavor represents a happy life.

Metatah is not only viewed as a tradition but also as a significant moment in a person's life. This process is expected to encourage each individual to reflect on themselves and strengthen their connection to the culture and traditions inherited from their ancestors. Through this ceremony, the values of purity and maturity are hoped to be preserved within Balinese society.

Thus, the Metatah ceremony not only symbolizes physical maturity but also represents a profound spiritual transformation, reinforcing identity, Balinese cultural identity, and the bond with ancestors. Through this ritual, it is hoped that the younger generation will not only be able to preserve but also internalize the noble values contained within it. This ceremony becomes a living cultural heritage that must be preserved with full awareness so that this tradition remains relevant in modern life without losing its sacred and meaningful essence.