The Celebration of Knowledge - Saraswati Day

Dewi Saraswati is the Goddess of knowledge and wisdom, symbolized by a beautiful woman with four hands, riding on a white swan among water lilies to tell humanity that science is like a beautiful woman. Her hands hold a palm leaf; a lontar, (a Balinese traditional book which is the source of science or knowledge); a genitri (chain with 108 pieces) symbolizing that knowledge is never ending and has an everlasting life cycle; and a musical instrument (guitar or wina) symbolizing that science develops through the growth of culture. The swans symbolize prudence, so that one's knowledge may distinguish between good and evil and the water lilies (Lotus) are symbols of holiness. The Lotus flower is the holiest for Balinese.

Literally the word Saraswati means 'the essence of the self' ; sara means essence, swa means self. Dewi Saraswati is represented in Hindu mythology as the divine consort of Lord Brahma, the Creator of the universe. Since knowledge is necessary for creation, Saraswati symbolizes the creative power of Brahma. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped by all persons interested in knowledge, especially students, teachers, scholars, and scientists.

Saraswati Day is celebrated every 210-days on Saniscara Umanis Wuku Watugunung based on Balinese Pawukon (cycles) calendar. Saraswati Day honors the knowledge that is bestowed on mankind. It is believed that without science and art it is impossible to create anything new on this earth. On the actual day of Saraswati , offering are placed on the books and shrines. Worships are held at the temples in family compound, villages, businesses and others from morning to noon. Prime worships are held in school's temples attended by its student and teachers. In the afternoon and evening is a good time to held religious discussion. Many Balinese try to refrain from reading or writing on this special ceremonial day.

In schools and institutes of education all around the island students gather early in the morning dressed in their ceremonial finery for a session of communal prayer. Resource books are piled high and blessed with offering of fruit, flowers and a sprinkling of holy water. Students take this opportunity to pray for guidance with future studies and to lead a harmonious life that adheres to the basic guidelines of Hinduism.

The following day of Saraswati is called Banyupinaruh, a day to have spiritual and physical cleansing. Normally Balinese will go to nearby beaches or water spring or river to have the special bathing. Worship will also be held in the village temples or other respective temples afterward.

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