ASIATODAY.ID, DENPASAR – Nyepi or Nyepi Day in Bali is synonymous with a day of silence or stopping all activities, from household activities to flights. This is related to the word Nyepi which comes from the word sepi which means quiet or silent. Nyepi is a series of commemorative ceremonies ahead of the Saka New Year for Hindus. The term Saka New Year is said to have originated from the Hindu community who settled in the Sindhu River valley (now better known as the Indus River), India around 78 AD during the reign of King Kaniska I. The meaning of Nyepi is to purify the body and mind. The meaning of Nyepi is to purify Bhuana Alit (human self) and Bhuana Agung (everything outside of the human self). In terms of efforts to preserve the environment and from the ecological side, Nyepi is a form of environmental conservation concept framed in the form of local wisdom.
The observance of Nyepi is dedicated to self-reflection, meditation, and introspection, where individuals are expected to remain silent, avoid all forms of entertainment, and refrain from activities that may disturb the tranquil atmosphere. Nyepi provides an opportunity for Balinese people to reconnect with their inner selves, honor nature, and restore the balance between humans and nature. This introspection and contemplation allows each individual to reconnect with their inner self and seek spiritual enlightenment. Nyepi serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring local customs and traditions while encouraging environmental conservation. Balinese people are proud of their unique cultural heritage and continue to pass down the rituals and values associated with Nyepi from generation to generation. Through practices such as Nyepi, Balinese people maintain their identity and contribute towards the preservation of their rich cultural heritage.
During Nyepi, Balinese people stop their daily activities and go into total self-isolation. This practice not only contributes to the conservation of natural resources but also serves as a reminder of the importance of harmony between humans and nature. By eliminating the use of electricity, limiting transport, and reducing waste generation, Nyepi promotes sustainability and encourages individuals to reflect on their ecological footprint. The emphasis on silence during Nyepi encourages individuals to attune themselves to the natural environment and appreciate its beauty and tranquillity. Overall, Nyepi serves as a reminder of the need for conservation and sustainable practices to maintain ecosystem balance and improve the well-being of future generations.
The concept of Nyepi exemplifies the importance of local wisdom in Bali. Nyepi is a holy day observed by Balinese Hindus, during which all activities are prohibited, and the island comes to a complete standstill. The silence and stillness signify the introspection and self-reflection that individuals need to evaluate their actions and seek spiritual renewal. This concept of Nyepi not only encourages personal growth but also serves as a means of environmental conservation. The ban on outdoor activities during Nyepi ensures the preservation of Bali’s natural resources, including beaches, forests, and waterways. The Nyepi celebration is an example of the integration of cultural practices and environmental sustainability in Bali, demonstrating the importance of local wisdom as a guiding principle for the island’s inhabitants.
Nyepi Day can be seen as a conservation effort in Bali. During Nyepi, all activities are halted and no work, travel, or entertainment is allowed. The activity of meditation and reflection serves as a reminder to the Balinese of the importance of conserving natural resources and preserving the environment. Restrictions on movement and activity help reduce energy consumption, waste production, and pollution. By dedicating a full day to silence and self-reflection, Balinese people reconnect with their cultural values and renew their commitment to living in harmony with nature. Nyepi also provides an opportunity for the island’s ecosystem to rejuvenate and wildlife to thrive undisturbed. Overall, Nyepi serves as a powerful statement about the importance of conservation and sustainability in Bali.
Nyepi as a conservation concept within the Balinese indigenous wisdom framework demonstrates the intricate interplay between environmental conservation, cultural practices, and spirituality. A day of silence and reflection not only provides space for individuals to recharge and restore energy but also allows for the conservation of resources, such as energy and water, by limiting human activities and minimizing pollution. In addition, Nyepi encourages a deeper appreciation and respect for nature, as reflected in the ceremonies and rituals performed throughout the day. This demonstrates the importance of sustainable living and the need to balance human needs with environmental well-being. By embracing the Nyepi philosophy of promoting conservation practices, Bali can continue to preserve its natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations..
Nyepi on the other hand is a form of implementation of the Tri Hita Karana concept. This can be seen from the side of the ceremonial activities carried out the day before Nyepi, which is an expression of gratitude and thanks to God. This expression of gratitude becomes a symbolic form of human relationship with God. The symbol of human relations with humans is shown in the form of meditation activities which are a form of self-introspection, without having to blame others. The cessation of activities to do meditation directly also provides an opportunity for plants and animals or the whole of nature to be undisturbed for one full day. The cessation of activities that cause nature to develop is a form of effort to maintain a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.
Environmental conservation is an effort to maintain, protect, and restore natural resources and ecosystems so that they can remain sustainable. The main goal of environmental conservation is to maintain biodiversity and reduce the negative impact of human activities on the environment. There are several approaches to environmental conservation, such as habitat preservation, pollution control, natural resource management, and environmental education. Environmental education involves public awareness and understanding of the importance of maintaining a balanced ecosystem and the impact of over-consumption behavior. Environmental conservation also involves cooperation between the government, communities, and the private sector to implement sustainable policies and safeguard the environment for future generations.
The relationship between Catur Brata Penyepian and environmental conservation is important to understand. Catur Brata Penyepian is a form of behavioral order that refers to the rules and norms that must be followed by each individual in fostering harmonious relationships with the surrounding environment. Applying Catur Brata Penyepian in daily life can help in maintaining environmental conservation. For example, by controlling oneself and desires, one becomes wiser in using natural resources and energy. In addition, by maintaining purity and cleanliness, individuals will pay attention to the preservation of nature and the surrounding environment. Thus, the relationship between Catur Brata Penyepian and environmental conservation is closely related and mutually supportive.
Some literature states that Nyepi in principle is more of an effort to control the five senses. Nyepi with the implementation of Catur Brata Penyepian is a way to ease the sensual desires that exist in humans. Amati Geni means not lighting fires including cooking and leads to efforts to fast. Amati Karya means not working and efforts to set aside the senses. Amati Lelungan means not traveling and is a step to rest the body. Amati Lelanguan means not having fun or doing any entertainment.
Amati Geni for Balinese Hindus has been interpreted as a taboo or prohibition to light a fire. The goal is to kill the fire within humans, such as anger, envy, and various bad thoughts. The practice in the field is done by not turning on the fire or lights. This means that there are efforts to reduce energy use, both electrical energy and other forms of energy. The practice of amati geni means efficient use of energy so that pollution due to the production of electrical energy is also reduced. A summary of various sources of the average reduction in the use of electrical energy in Bali during the Nyepi celebration is around 40-60 percent. Ni Kadek Surpi in an article entitled “Nyepi and the Efforts to Save the Environment” published in IOP Science in 2022 stated that the Nyepi celebration in Bali can save electricity use by 60 percent, namely 290 Megawatts, which if converted is around Rp 4 billion. There is also a reduction in carbon dioxide gas emissions of around 20,000 tonnes of PPM. The cessation of all transportation activities also has an impact on fuel efficiency of up to Rp. 3 billion, which is accompanied by improved air quality due to the cessation of all transportation activities..
Amati Karya is interpreted as a prohibition to do work or activities. The goal is to provide an opportunity or time for humanity to have time to reflect and introspect on the mistakes that have been made. When associated with the concept of conservation, amati karya is an effort for humans to allow nature to recover, considering that every activity carried out by humans contributes to environmental pollution and damage. Danang Eko Nuryanto in an article entitled “The effect of human activities on Bali’s Silent Day (Nyepi) in 2022” published in the E3S Web of Conferences in 2024 states that the implementation of Nyepi contributes to reducing the concentration of pollutants, so it is necessary to consider implementing this activity sustainably.
Amati Lelungan is a travel ban, where all Balinese Hindus do not travel or travel and contemplate for 24 hours. The impact is that all transport activities in Bali are stopped, including airport activities. The cessation of traveling activities causes the use of vehicle fuel, both land, sea, and air to experience efficiency. The cessation of transport activities contributed positively to the improvement of air quality in Bali. Tri A. Nuraini and friends in an article entitled “Comparison of Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) Measurement in Urban and Suburban Areas of Bali during Nyepi Day 2015” published in the Indonesian Journal of Spatial and Regional Analysis in 2019 stated that TSP concentrations decreased significantly in urban areas ranging from 73-78% relatively compared to normal days which is likely due to a drastic decrease in human activity. Especially for sub-urban areas, the decrease in TSP concentration was around 59%. This condition shows that high human activity affects air quality.
Amati Lelanguan is a prohibition against holding parties or having fun. During Nyepi Day, all Hindus refrain from enjoying entertainment or music. This abstinence causes all entertainment venues in Bali to close. The closure of entertainment venues has an impact on reducing noise pollution that has been causing noise. The one-day suspension of activities for entertainment venues in Bali can be a contribution to respecting local wisdom and efforts to reduce noise and environmental pollution. I Putu Mega Juli Semara Putraa, and I Made Narsa in an article entitled “The Spirit of Nyepi: Philosophy and its Implementation in Green Accounting: A Conceptual Framework” published in the International Journal of Innovation, Creativity, and Change in 2020 states that the Nyepi philosophy for a company can be part of the implementation of the green accounting concept. This means that the company’s involvement in the Nyepi celebration is a form of contribution to environmental management efforts. (*)
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