Dewi Sekar: The Savior and the Wonders of Nature in Bali

Dewi Sekar, in Balinese Hindu mythology, is known as Dewi Sekar Jagat or Dewi Sekar Ratu. The name "Sekar" in Balinese means "flower," reflecting Dewi Sekar's primary attributes as a symbol of beauty and prosperity. Dewi Sekar embodies the forces and balance of nature and is a symbol of fertility and fortune. In Balinese belief, Dewi Sekar is also seen as a guardian and protector of nature, capable of connecting the human world with higher spiritual powers. Dewi Sekar is considered the primary cause of all growth on earth.

In the past, there was a prosperous village on the island of Bali known for its fertile land and abundant agricultural yields. This village was a peaceful place where the inhabitants lived in harmony with nature and enjoyed the blessings of their land. The fertile soil produced a variety of crops, and the daily life of the villagers was filled with happiness.

Illustration of the Drought in the Village (Source: Personal Collection)

However, a prolonged drought struck the village. The relentless and scorching sun parched the once lush, green land. The clearflowing rivers ran dry, and the springs that once nourished plants  and surrounding life also vanished. The soil that had once been moist and fertile became cracked and barren. The villagers, who depended heavily on their agriculture, faced immense hardships. Famine began to threaten their lives, and a sense of despair spread throughout the village.

In a state of profound sadness and  resignation, the village elders gathered all the residents to pray and plead with the gods, particularly Dewi Sekar. They held a grand ceremony in the hope that the gods would hear their prayers and offer assistance. The offerings they prepared included food, flowers, and various forms of sacrifices as signs of their sincerity and humility. Despite their efforts, their attempts seemed futile, and the sense of despair deepened.

Illustration of the Descent of Goddess Sekar from the Heavenly Realm (Source: Personal Collection)

Hearing the prayers of the villagers. Moved by their suffering, Dewi Sekar decided to descend from the heavens. In the form of a captivating goddess, she descended surrounded by a soft, radiant light. In her hands, Dewi Sekar carried various types of flowers that were not only beautiful but also possessed magical powers. Each flower she carried had the ability to restore the balance of nature and revive the fertility of the land.

Dewi Sekar arrived at the village with grace and affection. With gentle and attentive movements, she placed the magical flowers in various strategic spots around the village. The flowers quickly began to bloom, releasing a fresh fragrance that spread throughout the entire village. Miracles soon followed.

Illustration of the Village's Return to Fertility (Source: Personal Collection)

The flowers produced water that flowed into the dry soil, irrigating withered plants and reviving longdried springs. The water from the magical flowers spread rapidly, soaking the parched land and restoring life to the surrounding flora and fauna. Plants began to grow green and lush once more, while rivers and springs flowed clear again. The village, once suffering, was now filled with life and happiness.

With deep gratitude, the villagers hold a grand ceremony to honor Dewi Sekar. The ceremony is filled with various offerings, including flowers that symbolize Dewi Sekar, as a sign of thanks for the blessings received. The offerings also include food, artwork, and dances that express their gratitude and joy. The entire village gathers to celebrate their renewed prosperity and pay homage to the goddess who has saved them.

Illustration of Dewi Sekar Before Returning to the Heavens (Source: Personal Collection)

Before Dewi Sekar returned to the heavens, she delivered a profound message to the villagers. She urged them to always care for the land and the flowers she had blessed. Dewi Sekar reminded them that the prosperity and well-being they enjoyed were not to be taken for granted, but were the result of their collaboration with nature. She emphasized the importance of maintaining ecological balance and respecting all forms of life.