Understanding the Ngerebeg Tradition in Desa Adat Tegal
The Ngerebeg Tradition in Desa Adat Tegal, Badung, Bali, is a cultural heritage rich in spiritual and social values. Held every six months on Wraspati Kliwon Wuku Langkir, this tradition aims to seek safety and protection from Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa. Its main processions involve population registration through tek cor and the Ngunya ritual, where villagers collectively circle the village area to ward off negative influences.
The Ngerebeg Tradition, also known as Wraspati Ngepik, is a sacred tradition passed down through generations by the community of Desa Adat Tegal, Abiansemal District, Badung Regency, Bali. This tradition is held every six months, precisely on Wraspati Kliwon Wuku Langkir, five days after the Kuningan holiday.
The term "Ngerebeg" originates from a word meaning bustling, roaring, or crowded. This meaning aligns with the vibrant atmosphere of the ceremony, which involves the enthusiastic participation of nearly all villagers. The primary purpose of Ngerebeg is to pray for safety and blessings for the community. Additionally, the ritual is believed to protect the village from negative influences, including disease outbreaks and disasters. Embedded in each stage of the tradition are noble values such as respect for ancestors, harmony with nature, and strengthening social bonds among residents.
The Ngerebeg Ceremony in Desa Adat Tegal (Source Photo: Private Collection)
The Ngerebeg ceremony is centered at the Bale Agung Pura Desa Tegal, the main location for the ritual. Before the ceremony begins, a "tek cor" is held, which is the process of registering the village's population. In the past, each head of household brought jinah bolong (coins) as a symbol of the number of family members. This tradition has since evolved, with the coins often replaced by rupiah currency, though it still maintains its symbolic meaning.
The highlight of the event is the Ngunya procession, where the community collectively carries various ceremonial items to circle the village. This procession is conducted with great enthusiasm and is believed to drive away negative influences from the village environment. The entire community, from children to the elderly, participates in this event, creating an atmosphere that is both joyful and reverent.
The Ngunya Procession as Part of the Ngerebeg Tradition (Source Photo: Private Collection)
The Ngerebeg tradition is not just a ceremonial ritual but also serves as a platform to strengthen social bonds among villagers. The active participation of all community members highlights the strong spirit of mutual cooperation that the people of Desa Adat Tegal possess. Through Ngerebeg, the values of togetherness, respect, and harmony are preserved.
Moreover, Ngerebeg represents local wisdom that reflects the life philosophy of the Balinese people, namely Tri Hita Karana—the concept of harmony between humans and God, among fellow humans, and with nature. Through this tradition, the younger generation is taught to cherish their ancestral cultural heritage and continue the positive values embedded within it.
