Dupa
Dupa is an Oceanic name from Bali (Indonesia). The lintang of dupa is found in intersection of Coma (Monday, in saptawara) and Paing (in pancawara) in a series of palelintangan. Lintang dupa means an incense constellation.[1]
Etymology and History
Dupa (IPA: /du·pa/) is derived from the Sanskrit धूप dhūpa, which means aroma, fragrance, incense, vapor that gives off an aroma.
Spelling Variants
- kukus
- kěmukus
Origin of Constellation
Balinese incense comes from the word “dup” which in Balinese means “fragrant aroma”. The use of incense in religious practices in Bali has existed since ancient times. It is believed that incense has magical powers and can connect the human world with the world of the gods. Balinese incense is used in religious ceremonies, to purify sacred places, homes, and people from negative forces. Incense is also used in alternative therapies. The aroma of incense is believed to help relieve stress, improve concentration, and create a calm atmosphere.
Balinese cultural figure, I Made Bandem, said that Chinese culture developed very well and influenced many other countries in Asia. Incense is one proof of this cultural mix. Made Bandem said that incense was originally produced in China. Then it spread to other countries such as Indonesia, especially in Bali.
In the 7th to 8th centuries in China, under the rule of the Tang Dynasty, many Buddhist monks made pilgrimages to India via Indonesia. At that time, Buddhist beliefs were almost the same as those that grew in Bali, namely lighting a fire using pasepan. Pasepan is interpreted as burning incense, sandalwood, and majegau wood for fragrance. The journey of the monks who made incense in a practical forms. Since then, incense has been used, including on the island of Bali until now.[2]
Transfer and Transformation of the Constellation
Mythology / Religion
The philosophy of incense is rooted in the teachings of the Vedas. In the Rig Veda, Fire (Agni) is referred to as the link between humans and Brahman (the creator). So that the burning incense will bring offerings to the divine realm as well as being a protector from dark forces. The Sama Veda also teaches the important role of Agni in sacred rituals as a guide to the implementation of sacred offerings (yadnya).[3]
Cultural Beliefs
Numerology (Neptu/Urip)
Coma (Monday, in saptawara) has a value of 4 and Paing (in pancawara) has a value of 9. Thus, the total urip on this lintang is 13.[4]
Astrological Characteristics
If men will look effeminate, if women appear like men. Be careful in maintaining body health, fortune ebbs and flows, If only he could pass the age of 50 to 80 years, he will live long and be happy in his old age. They have good nature, polite to anyone. But unfortunately they are often involved with his hard character, until his conscience is blinded.[4]
Matching Gemstones
Mirah (Ruby), Ijo Rangreng (Peros).[4]
Weblinks
References
- References (general)
- ↑ Maass, Alfred, “Astrologische Kalender der Balinesen,” in Koninklijk Bataviaasch Genootschap van Kunsten en Wetenschappen, Feestbundel bij gelegenheid van zijn 150 jarig bestaan 1778-1928, 2 vols. (Weltevreden, 1929), Vol. 2, 126-157.
- ↑ Ermalia, Ayu Afria Ulita, "Sejarah Masuknya Dupa ke Bali, Budayawan: Pengaruh Tiongkok," (2021) https://bali.idntimes.com/life/education/awal-mula-masuknya-dupa-di-bali-00-r544s-m5my1m
- ↑ Telusur Bali, "Kenapa Umat Hindu Menggunakan Dupa Saat Sembahyang? Ini Makna dan Fungsinya," (2025) https://telusur.balitrekker.com/kenapa-umat-hindu-menggunakan-dupa-saat-sembahyang-ini-makna-dan-fungsi/
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Tim Kajian Palelintangan, “Gabungan Kajian Palelintangan,” Museum Bali (2021), 1-149.
