Blessing

More than half a dozen topics are jostling for attention before we head to Amed for a couple of days next week. Rather than cram them into one long post, as I find time I will make a shortish, sharpish commentary for each. So watch this space. And again, thanks to those who do watch this space. I remain astonished and appreciative at the geography of the readership and the frequency of some visitors. Particularly those in California, where I know nobody. So thank you again, all readers - friends and family and those who drop by out of interest.

Only yesterday morning we mentioned that it was probably time to have the car washed again. We have been quite good about it, but not as good as the Balinese, who take huge pride in their sparkling vehicles.

Later in the afternoon, we received a call from Ketut. Could he borrow the car for a few hours on Saturday. It wouldn't inconvenience us as he'd use his spare key to pick it up about 6am and have it back by 9.

Saturday is Saniscara Kliwon Wuku Landep day (also known as Tumpek Landep), the day when Hindus make offerings and pray for safety from Ida Sang Hyang Pasupati, a god who is the owner of all tools made of metal. Including cars.

We did know this, and it had crossed our mind to ask the women here to include our car in their rituals on Saturday morning. But how much better that Ketut take it to his temple and have the car blessed by his priest.

So that is what will happen, and while I write this, Eddie is at the 'cuci mobil' having the car detailed and washed so that it meets Balinese standards of presentation for the ceremony.

And to be honest, we will drive to Amed on Monday, still 'hati hati di jalan'*, but safe in the knowledge that due respect has been paid in accordance with tradition.

The image has been borrowed from the Dasar Bali blog, which also explains more about this ceremony.

* take care on the road

Postscript:

The car was returned bearing offerings, as most cars and motorbikes on the road today did. We'll keep these on, for a while at least.