The Grandeur of Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh, Tabanan Regency, Bali

The history of Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh is closely linked to the early development of Hinduism in Bali, around the 10th to 14th centuries, when Balinese kingdoms began to adopt Hindu teachings. At that time, most villages in Bali typically had three main temples, known as Khayangan Tiga.

Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh was initially established as part of this tradition, with its primary purpose being a Pura Dalem, one of the three temples in Khayangan Tiga dedicated to worshiping Lord Shiva as the god of destruction. The name "Kubontingguh" refers to the location where the temple was founded, in a sacred area believed to possess strong spiritual power.

Throughout history, Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh has undergone several renovations and restorations to maintain its beauty and sanctity, but its function remains unchanged – as a place for worshiping ancestral spirits and Lord Shiva. This temple has endured as a symbol of the Balinese people's spiritual resilience amidst various social and cultural changes, including during the colonial era.

Nista Mandala or the Outer Courtyard of Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh (Source : Private Collection)

Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh is also categorized as a Pura Kahyangan Jagat, which means this temple is not only venerated by a specific village community but by all Hindus in Bali. Pura Kahyangan Jagat are major temples in Bali that are considered sacred by everyone, without being bound by traditional village or family ties. The existence of Pura Kahyangan Jagat is based on the philosophy of maintaining balance between the human world and the spiritual world.

As a Pura Kahyangan Jagat, Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh plays an important role in maintaining the relationship between humans and the universe. Besides being a center for the worship of Lord Shiva and ancestral spirits, this temple also serves as a key location for large ceremonies involving the broader community, not limited to the local community alone. This makes Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh one of the spiritual pillars in Bali, preserving Hindu religious traditions and ancestral beliefs.

Madya Mandala or the Middle Courtyard of Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh (Source : Private Collection)

Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh is located in Denbatas Village, Tabanan District, Tabanan Regency. Tabanan is one of the regions in Bali known for its many sacred temples and fertile agricultural areas. The temple is situated in a spiritually strategic area, where Pura Dalem is typically located on the edge of the village or near burial grounds, considering its role in death rituals and ancestor worship. Tabanan itself is known as the "rice barn" of Bali, with its captivating natural beauty, including terraced rice fields and hills, which add to the sacredness of this site

Utama Mandala or the Inner Courtyard of Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh (Source : Private Collection)

The architecture of Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh follows traditional Balinese style, rich in symbolism and spiritual meaning. As a Pura Dalem, its design features layout and elements that symbolize the harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and the universe.

The temple is divided into three main zones, in accordance with the layout principles in Balinese temple architecture:

1. Nista Mandala (Outer Courtyard)  

Nista Mandala or the outer courtyard is the outermost zone of the temple, which usually serves as a preparation area for worshipers before entering the sacred area.

2. Madya Mandala (Middle Courtyard)  

Madya Mandala or the middle courtyard is the transitional area where worshipers can gather or prepare offerings before entering the most sacred zone.

3. Utama Mandala (Inner Courtyard)  

Utama Mandala or the inner courtyard is the innermost and holiest zone, where the main shrine is located. Not everyone is allowed to enter this zone, as it is reserved for those who wish to perform prayers.

Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh is not merely a place of worship but also a symbol of Bali's rich spiritual and cultural heritage that has endured for centuries. With its majestic architecture imbued with philosophical meaning, this temple stands as a silent witness to the historical journey of Hinduism in Bali, while preserving ancestral traditions amidst changing times. As a Pura Kahyangan Jagat, Pura Dalem Purwa Kubontingguh serves as a spiritual center not only respected by the local community but also by all Hindus in Bali, fostering a sacred bond between humans, nature, and the universe.