Life and Death: Journal of Eschatology
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The eschatological traces in the cult of maharsi markandeya an interpretation of samādhi at Pura Pucak Payogan, Bali
No full textBackground: This study explores the eschatological dimensions embedded in the veneration of Maharsi Markandeya at Pura Pucak Payogan Bali, particularly through the interpretation of his samādhi (spiritual absorption) as a culmination of sacred life and transcendence. The aim is to analyze how the notion of moksha (liberation) is ritualized, spatialized, and narrated through cultic practices and collective memory within Balinese Hindu communities. Previous studies on Balinese religiosity have primarily focused on ritual systems, ancestral worship, and temple networks, but little attention has been paid to eschatological interpretations of samādhi shrines as sites of spiritual transcendence. Methods: This article adopts a qualitative approach using ethnographic fieldwork, textual interpretation of Hindu philosophical sources (particularly Vedānta and Yoga Sūtra), and spatial-symbolic analysis of the temple architecture and rituals associated with Pura Pucak Payogan. Findings: The findings reveal that Maharsi Markandeya’s samādhi is perceived not merely as a memorial site but as an eschatological axis where the duality between life and death dissolves. This perception is enacted through pilgrimage practices, offerings, and narratives that position the site as a symbolic gateway to liberation. The integration of eschatological doctrine into living religious practices reflects a dynamic fusion of textual philosophy and local ontology. Conclusion: The study concludes that Pura Pucak Payogan functions as a liminal sacred space encoding the ideal of divine union, and that the cult of Maharsi Markandeya offers a living model of eschatological embodiment in the Hindu-Balinese tradition. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this study lies in its interdisciplinary interpretation of samādhi as an eschatological site and in highlighting the fusion of theological vision with ritual practice in contemporary Balinese spirituality
Swami vivekananda’s perspective on radicalism and extremism: Tolerance, pluralism, and education as strategic solutions
Full text linkBackground: Radicalism and extremism have become phenomena that threaten social peace and political stability across various regions of the world. The teachings of Swami Vivekananda—a prominent Indian spiritual leader and philosopher—offer an alternative perspective for addressing these issues. In an increasingly polarized global context, Vivekananda’s thoughts on religious tolerance, pluralism, and the transformative power of education present a meaningful framework for confronting the roots of radicalization and violence. This study aims to explore Vivekananda’s views on radicalization by emphasizing the principle of ahimsa (nonviolence), appreciation of religious diversity, and education as a preventive tool against extremism. Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this research conducts a textual analysis of Vivekananda’s works, especially his renowned speeches, to identify core principles relevant to the problem of radicalization. Findings: The findings reveal that Vivekananda strongly opposed all forms of radicalism and extremism, advocating instead for a deep respect for diversity, peaceful coexistence, and holistic education as a means of cultivating moral character. Conclusion: In conclusion, Vivekananda’s teachings have significant implications for both religious theory and social practice, offering a compassionate, interfaith-based approach to reducing the risk of radicalization in modern society. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study uniquely highlights Swami Vivekananda’s teachings as a humanistic and interfaith-based philosophical framework to counter radicalization through nonviolence, pluralism, and transformative education
Fides quaerens intellectum, hindu divine philosophy and its relevance to religious moderation in Indonesia
Full text linkBackground: The relationship between faith and reason has been a topic of interest in both religion and philosophy. In the Western tradition, they are often viewed as distinct and difficult to reconcile. However, Hinduism emphasizes the synthesis of ritual (karmakāṇḍa) and knowledge (jñanakāṇḍa), which integrates human intellect with divine understanding. Objective: This paper explores the concept of faith and reason in both Western and Hindu philosophy, specifically looking at how these ideas are interconnected and how they influence the development of global citizenship, unity, and interfaith harmony. Methods: The study uses a comparative approach, analyzing key figures such as St. Anselm in Christian philosophy and Ādi Śaṅkarācārya and Swami Vivekananda in Hindu philosophy. The research examines their ideas on the synthesis of faith, reason, and intellect. Findings: The findings show that in both traditions, faith and reason are not mutually exclusive but are complementary. St. Anselm’s Fides quaerens intellectum and Śaṅkarācārya’s doctrine of unity promote a harmonious relationship between theology and philosophy, suggesting that reason and intellect strengthen faith and belief. Conclusion: The synthesis of faith and reason in both Western and Hindu philosophy supports the development of a global citizen who embraces diversity without conflict. Both traditions emphasize the importance of human intellect and reasoning in spiritual practice and understanding, highlighting the universal value of unity. Novelty/Originality of this article: This paper presents a unique comparative analysis of faith and reason in Western and Hindu philosophy, emphasizing their complementary roles in fostering interfaith dialogue, intellectual growth, and global citizenship
The importance of the teachings of the bhagavad-gita in hindu society in Bali
Full text linkBackground: The Bhagavad Gita is one part of the Vedas, and it is also referred to as the fifth Veda or Pancama Veda. The history of the growth of the Vedas is fundamentally known as the Veda Trayi, which consists of the Rig Veda, Sama Veda, and Yajur Veda. The Atharva Veda contains various magical mantras. Structurally, the Bhagavad Gita is more directed and serves as a compilation of the previous Vedas. This represents a step in the historical development of Hindu thought.In-depth and extensive research has proven that, as mentioned in the Puranas, the codification of the Four Vedas is the greatest achievement of Bhagawan Abiasa (Vyasa). Methods: This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach using interviews and questionnaires to explore how the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are understood and practiced among Hindu students and communities in Bali. The data were collected from student responses and analyzed thematically. Findings: The majority of respondents acknowledge the Bhagavad Gita as a sacred scripture that plays an essential role in shaping values such as dharma (duty), karma yoga (selfless action), devotion, self-control, and emotional resilience. Respondents emphasized its relevance in daily life, particularly in building character, facing modern challenges, and fostering communal harmony. A bar chart analysis revealed that 28 out of 30 respondents stated that the Bhagavad Gita “strongly influences” their daily lives. Conclusion: The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are not only regarded as religious doctrine but also as a comprehensive guide for ethical behavior and emotional well-being in both personal and social contexts. Its philosophical messages remain highly relevant and are deeply internalized by the Hindu community in Bali, especially among students who use its values to navigate contemporary challenges. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study highlights the lived experience of Balinese Hindu students with the Bhagavad Gita, showing how an ancient spiritual text continues to inform practical moral choices in modern society
The role of rhythm in religious rituals: Supporting the spirituality of Hindu-Buddhist communities in the context of eschatology
Full text linkBackground: Music played an important role in the development of Hindu-Buddhist civilization in Indonesia, especially in spiritual life and religious rituals. Methods: This article explores how rhythm and melody became essential elements in the religious and cultural practices of the people during that time. Findings: Music not only served as entertainment, but also as a medium of connection between humans and the supernatural, creating harmony between the mortal and divine worlds. In the Hindu-Buddhist era, music was often used in religious rituals, such as temple worship ceremonies and offerings to the gods. Traditional instruments such as gamelan and gender were believed to have sacred powers that could purify the atmosphere and improve concentration in meditation. Through music, values of spirituality, harmony and devotion are embodied, reflecting the cosmic concept in Hindu-Buddhist teachings of balance between the macrocosm and microcosm. The article also discusses historical and archaeological evidence that shows the involvement of music in religious rituals, such as the reliefs in Borobudur and Prambanan Temples that depict musical instruments and religious processions. The art of music at that time not only showed a high level of aesthetics, but also became a symbol of community identity and togetherness. Conclusion: This paper discusses in depth the role of music as one of the supports of spiritual life that has helped shape the foundation of Indonesian culture and tradition to this day. Novelty/Originaloty of this article: This study uniquely highlights the sacred role of music in Hindu-Buddhist religious rituals in Indonesia, emphasizing its function as a bridge between the mortal and divine realms, which has been rarely explored in previous research
The influence of forest ecosystems on the well-being of surrounding communities: A philosophical perspective in eschatology through guattari’s three ecologies
Full text linkBackground: This paper examines the influence of UI Forest on the well-being of surrounding communities through Felix Guattari’s Three Ecologies perspective. The research addresses how the presence of UI Forest as an urban green space affects the physical and mental well-being of nearby residents, particularly amid the techno-scientific transformation era that threatens ecological balance. Methods: The study employs Guattari’s Three Ecologies theory, which views ecology through three dimensions: mental, social, and environmental. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with 15 respondents, including local residents and UI Forest users, such as cycling communities and runners. Findings: The analysis utilizes Guattari’s ecosophical approach, which integrates ethico-political and aesthetic aspects in understanding human-environment relationships. The findings reveal that UI Forest plays a significant role in enhancing community well-being by providing space for physical activities, contemplation, and social interaction. Access restriction policies hinder UI Forest’s potential in supporting community welfare. Conclusion: A country's happiness index is very important. The happiness index value is a consideration for policy makers in making regulations and implementing national programs. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this study lies in the multidimensional approach in analyzing the happiness index in Indonesia by considering factors that have rarely been comprehensively studied in previous studies
Baris wayang dance: Ritual meaning and community perception in balinese hinduism
Full text linkBackground: The Baris Wayang Dance is only performed at the Dalem Beads Upgrading Great Lumintang Temple. This dance is a combination of dance, karawitan , vocal, puppetry, and costume, and is only performed upon the God's vision who lived at the temple occurred. Methods: This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach. To obtain valid data in the field, this study used observation techniques, interviews with key informants and the community in Lumintang village, and literature studies. To analyze the above problems, religious and semiotic theories were used. Findings: The results of the study show that, the form of the Line Wayang Dance performance is composed of the structure of kawitan , pepeson , pengumbang , and pengluwuran ; performed on the basis of the God's vision who resides in the temple; danced by nine dancers while singing the purifying song, and holding puppets that represent Gods; also accompanied by traditional music, the public's perception of this dance performance is understood as a means of purifying and offering sacred offerings to God, the denotative meaning of this performance is reflecting the story of wayang and Hindu religious symbols; this dance connotatively represents the cycle of human life, a form of communication between people and the divine; and at the mythical level it is interpreted as the embodiment of the God's vision. Conclusion: Based on this phenomenon, the problems in this study can be formulated as follows, what is the form of the Baris Wayang Dance performance, what is public perception of the Baris Wayang Dance performance, what is the meaning contained in the performance from a Hindu theological perspective. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this study lies in its unique exploration of the Baris Wayang Dance as a sacred, vision-inspired ritual that integrates multiple traditional art forms to symbolize divine communication and the human life cycle within a specific Balinese temple context
The Yajña Chakra in Sujana human education
Full text linkEducation in Indonesia is always in the public spotlight, usually during the period of cabinet changes. Particularly, the Minister of National Education, who is always concerned with new policies along with new curriculum, which has an effect on parents and students as well as the wider community. Indonesia's human development index in 2022 reached 72.91, an increase of 0.62 points (0.86 percent) compared to the previous year (72.29). In terms of determining the development index, education is one of the keys. In this article, qualitative research examines the Yajña Chakra Concept in Sujana Human Education efforts. The data in this research was obtained through observation, literature study, interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) related to the research theme and studied using content analysis. According to the Vedas, the philosophical background of education is to improve the quality of life of "manava" (humankind) and their lives to become "madhava", for instance human beings who have gentleness, compassion and high wisdom or wisdom. Whereas "manava" falls into "danava-danava", such as humans with giant characters, greed, envy and various other bad traits. Clearly, education is a continuous process in a 'linear' system, and has an important role in people's lives, which occurs in all social settings, not just at school. People gain insight, knowledge, and skills from others that they can use in their lives. Bali in particular, if Hindus truly realise the teachings of Yajña, especially Manusa Yajña, gaps in education should be addressed. Presently, Yajña is understood as a ritual ceremony and there seems to be a tendency to get bigger each day and seem increasingly difficult to carry out. Manusa Yajña should also make sacrifices for fellow humans, including advancing the world of education
The Nāṭyaśāstra text and its influence on Hindu religious art in Indonesia
Full text linkThis research examines the influence of the Nāṭyaśāstra, a classic text of Indian literature that focuses on the performing arts, on Hindu religious arts in Indonesia. Through an in-depth analysis of the implementation of the Nāṭyaśāstra in Hindu religious arts, this study aims to understand how this classical text plays a role in shaping and maintaining the heritage of religious arts in the Indonesian context. It is found that the Nāṭyaśāstra not only serves as a guide for artists and performers, but also influences the structure, style, and content of various Hindu religious performances in Indonesia. The principles of Nāṭyaśāstra, such as rasa (taste), aesthetics (bhava), and performance techniques, emerged as key elements in the creation and performance of religious performing arts. This research also highlights the successful adaptation and integration of local cultural elements by Hindu communities in Indonesia in the application of Nāṭyaśāstra. The results confirm that the Nāṭyaśāstra is not only the foundation but also the source of inspiration for Hindu religious art in Indonesia. The integration of local culture is not a mere reproduction, but a creative response to the social and cultural environment. This phenomenon reflects the sustainability and ongoing life of Hindu religious art, affirming religious identity while creating a unique and authentic art form. As such, this research provides a deeper understanding of the role of Nāṭyaśāstra in nurturing and enriching Hindu religious art in Indonesia. The results can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, cross-cultural understanding, and enrich insights into the relationship between Indian classical texts and religious art expressions in local Indonesian context
Benefits of Vedic learning for improving competence and strengthening mental health
Full text linkBackground: The Vedas are an ancient library that is the source or book for the Hindu religion. The Vedas are used as the main guidelines and their teachings are implemented in the daily lives of Hindus. In addition to being a holy book, the Vedas also contain many values contained therein. Tattwam, Susila, and Upakara are three basic frameworks in Hinduism that need to be considered in the 21st century. Method: This research uses a qualitative method focusing on text analysis, which involves in-depth examination of written materials based on their context. The study aims to understand phenomena in their natural settings without manipulation, emphasizing the meaning and quality aspects rather than quantitative measures. Findings: There are many positive benefits of applying the vedic teachings in daily life. By realizing the existence of God, implementing the teachings of Susila and the proper implementation of Upakara in daily life. Not only as a guideline in carrying out the three basic frameworks in Hinduism but there are many other unexpected benefits gained through learning the Vedas, be it in science, character building, making life easier and also in achieving success. Not only as a source of knowledge, but the Vedas are also a source of medicine. This is contained in the Atharva Veda. Conclusion: The benefit of the Vedas that is no less important is that the Vedas are a source of Hindu Law (Dharma). Novelty/Originality of this article: Using qualitative methods focusing on text analysis, this study explores the relevance of the Vedas in everyday life in the 21st century. This research shows that the Vedas not only function as sacred scriptures and sources of knowledge but also provide benefits in character formation, facilitate life, and serve as sources of healing and legal foundation (Dharma) for Hinduism