The Keris Purification Ritual at Pura Pesiraman Umejero
Buleleng, located in the northern part of Bali, is a regency rich in tradition and cultural heritage. The customs and traditions preserved in this region remain deeply rooted in the daily lives of its people. One of the villages in Buleleng is Umejero Village, situated in Busungbiu Sub-district. This village continues to uphold its ancestral traditions, passed down through generations.
In addition to the ancestral customs upheld by the people of Umejero Village, there is also a strong mystical element believed in and preserved by the community. This is reflected in the sacred purification sites for heirlooms (pusaka) located in each family shrine (merajan) or temple in Umejero Village. These sites are considered sacred because, in the past, water was said to flow naturally from the gaps between the bamboo at these locations.
Bamboo Gaps at Pura Pesiraman Umejero (Photo Source: Personal Collection)
As time passed, the people of the village held a paum (deliberation) with the surrounding community to discuss the question, "Why does water flow only from that particular bamboo tree, while there are other bamboo trees in the area that do not release water?" After holding the paum, the villagers consulted a spiritual expert about the phenomenon.
Bamboo Gaps at Pura Pesiraman Umejero (Photo Source: Personal Collection)
After being asked by the village authorities, it was confirmed that the water did indeed emerge from the bamboo, and it was believed to be purified water with many benefits. The water that appeared was collected in a single place, and two sacred statues were placed on each side of the water. Additionally, three small spouts were provided for the flowing water. This water is believed to be used for skin healing and for the purification of heirlooms, which is performed every six months.
In addition to the sacred spring, several pelinggih (shrines) are also placed there for worship and for those who seek to request (nunas) water from this place, particularly for healing purposes. The pelinggih at this location include Pelinggih Ratu Made, believed to be the protector of the site, Pelinggih Dewa Wisnu, as a manifestation of God related to the element of water, and Pelinggih Hyang Baruna, which strengthens the community's belief in the power of nature.
