Shiva Buddha Temple: The Mystical Story and Meaning Behind the Standing of Shiva Buddha Temple

Bali, in addition to being famous for its natural beauty, is also known as a center of spirituality with numerous temples that hold deep historical and religious significance. One unique temple that embodies a blend of Hindu and Buddhist values is Siwa Buddha Temple. Located in Desa Adat Kembang Merta, Baturiti, Tabanan, Bali, this temple is a reflection of harmony between two great teachings that have long coexisted in Bali: Shaivism and Buddhism. The history of this temple is inseparable from the mystical discovery that led to the establishment of this sacred site.

The history of Siwa Buddha Temple began with a mystical discovery in July 2008, when local villagers found a sacred artifact in the form of the Keris Pasupati (sacred dagger). This discovery was considered a sacred sign, prompting the community to build a temple as a place of worship.

In addition to the keris, a statue of Pralingga or Buddha, believed to be connected to Puncak Sangkur Temple, an important temple in the same area, was also found. The discovery of these two artifacts, the Keris Pasupati and the Buddha statue, became the foundation for the construction of Siwa Buddha Temple, which was later established as a symbol of the union between the two great teachings: Shaivism and Buddhism.

Puncak Sangkur Temple (Source: Personal Collection)

The uniqueness of the Siwa Buddha Temple architecture is reflected in the presence of three main shrines: the Padmasana Shrine, the Shiva Shrine, and the Buddha Shrine. The Siwa Buddha shrine at Siwa Buddha Temple is not just a mere architectural symbol but also holds profound philosophical meaning. The meaning of the Siwa Buddha shrine is that the presence of Buddha symbolizes peace, but without Shiva, true balance and peace have not yet been achieved. Therefore, the Padma shrine was built in the center, between the Shiva and Buddha shrines, to reflect perfect harmony and balance.

The Siwa Buddha shrine symbolizes unity, the merging of two great teachings, Shaivism and Buddhism, which have long been rooted in Bali. In a spiritual context, this unity reflects that although these teachings come from different traditions, they share the same goal: to achieve balance and peace in life. At this temple, there are also statues of Buddha and the Goddess Kwan Im located at the back of the temple.

Buddha and Goddess Kwan Im Statues (Source: Personal Collection)

In addition to being a place of worship, Siwa Buddha Temple is also known as a place for seeking healing. Many worshippers come with the hope of receiving tamba (medicine) through the rituals performed at this temple. In local belief, sacred ash given from the temple is believed to have healing powers.

More than just a place of prayer, Siwa Buddha Temple has become an important symbol of the union of different religious teachings and traditions in Bali. The existence of this temple not only strengthens the spiritual values of the community but also reflects tolerance and harmony between various religious teachings that have long coexisted on the island. In a broader context, Siwa Buddha Temple serves as a center of wisdom, where people can delve into spiritual values, seek healing, and find peace in the unity of two teachings brought together in harmony.