The Charm of Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh: A Sacred Place and the Wealth of Traditional Rituals

Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh is located in Kubontingguh Traditional Village, Denbantas Village, Tabanan District, an area surrounded by natural beauty and a serene rural atmosphere. This temple is one of the important places of worship for the local people of Tabanan. The distance from the city of Tabanan to the location of the temple from the two directions in question is almost the same + 2.5 km. While the distance from the city of Denpasar is 24.5 km. Its location on the slope of this temple provides a calming atmosphere and scenery, strengthening the spiritual impression and sacredness of this temple. Surrounded by shady trees and cool air, Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh presents a peaceful and soothing atmosphere for visitors who come to pray or simply enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Front Gate of Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh (Source: Private Collection)

This temple is known by the people of Pengempon as "Pura Kahyangan Jagat Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh". The naming is closely related to the status and function of the temple, which is different from the Dalem Temple in general known to Hindus. The word "Dalem" refers to the manifestation of God or Ida Sanghyang Widhi in His magical form, Shiva, namely "Bhatari Durga" which symbolizes the power of fusion. Meanwhile, the word "Purwa" comes from the meaning of origin (wit in Baline), which means the beginning of Pura Dalem with all its greatness and power.

Bali Klukkluk Worship Place at Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh (Source: Private Collection)

Kahyangan Jagat Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh Temple is considered a spiritual ancestral place by Hindus, because this temple is a source of strength. For people who come to pray at this temple, it is believed that they will get salvation. After Bali was conquered by Majapahit in 1352, or around the 13th century, Subakti Arya Kenceng received a revelation in the form of strength (kedirgayusan). In his words, he emphasized that his descendants must worship at the Kahyangan Jagat Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh Temple.

Bale at Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh (Source: Private Collection)

In Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh itself there are various limitations that need to be known. To the north there is the Kubontingguh Traditional Highway, to the east it is bounded by Kali Atu Sungai, to the west there is a private moorland owned by local residents and to the south there is the Subak Uma Tegal rice field.

Based on the Denpasar archaeological research report number 362/F9.7/PK/2000 on November 15, 2000, there are several finds, both large stones in front of the Cow statue placed in Gedong Pura or Palinggih. On the Pelinggih Gedong Agung there is a cronogram engraving in the form of building construction or repair at that time which reads "as follows. The "body" or angga is worth 1, chakra weapons are worth 5, birds and winged animals are worth 6, fire or fire gods are worth 3 and can be read as the number 1563 or 1641 AD.

Cronogram engraving on Palinggih (Source: Private Collection)

Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh is not only a sacred place, but also a symbol of deep spirituality for Hindus, especially in Bali. Its existence which is full of historical value and religious power makes this temple one of the important destinations to obtain blessings and inner peace. With a wealth of traditions and spiritual meanings that continue to be preserved, Pura Luhur Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh remains a silent witness to Bali's spiritual journey and culture that is sustainable to this day. Hopefully the existence of this temple will continue to provide peace and safety for future generations.