When visiting Bali during Galungan Day, you will see many tall poles with traditional decoration which stands at the front of the local people’s house.

The tall pole of often called as Penjor by Balinese people is not only a decoration during Galungan Day but also contain a deep meaning and symbols. Let’s find out it in detail below.

Galungan Day and Penjor Bali Meaning

According to local peoples, Galungan Day is a holy day to celebrate the victory of Dharma (Goodness) over Adharma (Evil). The making of Penjor is one form of its celebrations.

Penjor symbolizes the mount that has provided safety and welfare to human beings. It also represents gratitude of Balinese peoples to Ida Sang Hyang Widhi (God) for the prosperity.

Symbol of Every Items on Penjor Galungan

Penjor is usually made from material of a bamboo pole decorated with palm leaves and agricultural products, namely: corn, banana, coconut, tuber, and so on.

Every item on Penjor Bali has own symbol and meaning, as some are below.

1. Tiing (bamboo) symbolizes a strength of Lord Maheswara.
2. White fabric symbolizes a strength Lord Iswara
3. Sampian (item at end of penjor) symbolizes a strength of Lord Parama Siwa
4. Janur (item at waits of penjor) symbolizes a strength of Lord Mahadewa
5. Jaja Uli (Balinese cake) symbolizes a strength of Lord Brahma.
6. Coconut symbolizes a strength of Lord Rudra.
7. Pala Bungkah and Pala Gantung (agricultural product) symbolizes a strength of Lord Wisnu.
8. Tebu (cane) symbolizes a strength of Lord Sambu.
9. Plawa symbolizes a strength of Lord Sangkara.
10. Sanggah Cucuk (bamboo woven has a shape of triangle) symbolize a strength of Lord Siwa.

Above are general items on Penjor. In some of villages, there are additional items or without using some items above. The making of Penjor doesn’t demand the luxury but it accords to ability (may be made simply).

Besides that, the making of Penjor is not only during Galungan Day but also there is a celebration of Pujawali – an anniversary day in the temple.