Title: The Theology of Seda Raga in the Diksa Pandita Ceremony in Gianyar Regency
Authors: Gusti Ngurah Priyastara; I Gede Suwantana; I Made Adi Brahman
Volume: 10
Issue: 5
Pages: 445-452
Publication Date: 2026/05/28
Abstract:
This study examines the theology of seda raga in the diksa pandita ceremony in Gianyar Regency, Bali. Seda raga, which literally means "death of the body," symbolizes the spiritual death of worldly identity and the rebirth of an individual into sacred priestly existence within Balinese Hinduism. The research aims to analyze the procession, functions, and theological meanings of seda raga in the diksa pandita ritual. This study employs a qualitative method with theological and ethnographic approaches. Data were collected through observation of religious ceremonies, interviews with pandita and Hindu religious figures, and documentation studies of relevant texts and literature. The findings show that the procession of seda raga involves stages of purification, symbolic death, mantra recitation, ritual transition, and spiritual rebirth. The ritual functions as a process of spiritual purification, legitimization of priestly authority, moral transformation, preservation of religious traditions, and maintenance of cosmic harmony. Theologically, seda raga reflects Hindu teachings concerning self-transcendence, surrender to divine will, purification of the soul, and sacred rebirth into dwijati status. The study concludes that seda raga represents a profound integration of theology, ritual symbolism, and Balinese cultural spirituality that continues to shape religious identity and communal harmony in contemporary Balinese Hindu society.