Soul Purification Ritual at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

Located on the southern tip of Bali in Nusa Dua, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali offers guests the chance to participate in an authentic Soul Purification Ritual. Expanding its menu of unique, locally-inspired activities, the resort provides guests the opportunity to experience this time-honored tradition of the Hindu-Balinese culture and take part in a one-of-a-kind spiritual experience.

Traditionally referred to as "Melukat," derived from the word ‘Lukat’ which means to purify in Balinese, the soul purification practice is centered around holy water – an agent of the power of God – which can cleanse spiritual impurities, , and render the recipient immune to the attacks of negative influences. In Bali, holy water accompanies every act of Hindu-Balinese worship from individual prayer at a household shrine to island-wide ceremonies. This spiritual activity is often performed when a Balinese native is about to enter a new phase in their life, is recovering from sickness, or celebrating either one of "Rites of Passage," such as marriage or child birth, and the holy water is used to purify and cleanse the body, mind, and soul.

"We are dedicated to create authentic experiences for each and every one of our guests," says General Manager Karim Tayach. "The Soul Purification Ritual allows our guests to take part in an important Balinese tradition and embark on a spiritual journey of self discovery and enrichment, while continuing our commitment to foster an authentic Balinese experience."

At The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, the Soul Purification Ritual takes place on the secluded white beaches of the resort in the early morning, when Surya, or God of Sun, is believed to rise. Balinese Hindus believe that the blessings from Surya and Baruna, the God of Ocean, are required for a clean and fresh new beginning, which is why this is performed on the beach.

The spiritual journey begins with a Balinese Priest offering a devotion to both of the Gods, followed by a ‘Tepung Tawar’ ritual, cleansing of the guest’s hands, feet, face, and mouth three times each with the holy water, to symbolically cleanse the body, mind, and soul, and concluded by a prayer. This prayer is said five times in accordance with Balinese Hindu tradition – the first is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi, the Balinese Hindu God, with empty hands; the second is dedicated to Sang Hyang Surya Raditya, God of Sun, with a white flower; the third is dedicated to Sang Hyang Baruna, God of Ocean, with any flower; the fourth is dedicated to Sang Hyang Samudaya, all Gods, with the flower; the fifth is dedicated to thank Sang Hyang Widhi, with empty hands.

Completing the journey, a piece of three-colored string called Benang Tridatu is tied around the guest’s wrist and worn until it falls off – symbolizing their quest for balance, harmony, and understanding. Guests will be accompanied by a "Sutri", the priest’s assistant who will lead through entire steps of the ritual and provide consultation on Balinese culture.

Upon completion of the Soul Purification Ritual, guests who would like to continue their Balinese journey can do so with guided excursions or day trips to one of the island’s many ancient temples organized by the Ladies & Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton.

Opened in February 2015, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali marked the brand’s grand return to the Island of Gods and is built on two distinct levels, perched atop a cliff and along the sands of the beach, with the two connected by a signature soaring glass elevator. The resort is home to 313 suites and villas as well as six restaurants and bars, Majestic wedding chapel, meeting and conference facilities, as well as The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Presenting the timeless charm of Indo-Balinese hospitality, the ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali are dedicated to deliver iconic service and inspiring a meaningful journey for its guests.

For more information on activities offered at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, and bookings visit www.ritzcarlton.com/bali and join the conversation on social media using #RCMemories.