Ngaben: Facts about The Cremation Ceremony in Bali

VIVA – Ngaben, a Balinese sacred ceremonial ritual, is one of the most important cultural events. It’s a cremation ceremony where families send off the deceased known to enter the “next” life.

In Hindu, ngaben means to separate the soul from the body, which is done in this ritual through cremation.

This ceremony normally isn’t taken immediately after one’s death. It must take place on a particular day as calculated by the Balinese calendar or recommended by the priest.

A lot of time will also be required for the preparation, ranging from weeks until months for bigger ceremonies. Some families also wait a few years after their family has passed away, since a lot of money is needed to pay all the expenses.

Here are 5 other facts about Ngaben that must you know:

1. Hindu Cremation

Ngaben is another name for a cremation ceremony for the dead, with the intention of the family sending the deceased to enter the "next" life. In Hindu language, Ngaben means separating the soul from the body, which is done in this ritual through cremation.

Before the ceremony begins, the family members of the deceased prepare a wooden ox that used to hold and place the corpse which will then be burned.

In Hinduism, besides being believed to be a creator god, Lord Brahma has a form as the God of Fire. So, the Ngaben ceremony is a process of purifying the spirit by burning it so that the fire can return to the Creator. Fire is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Brahma.

The fire will burn everything to the dirt that clings to the bodies and spirits of the deceased.

2. Ox Bade Ngaben Ceremony in Bali

When wooden oxen and bade like temple structures are brought to the cremation site. Usually Balinese will try to confuse the deceased's spirit, making sure the deceased doesn't find his way home.