Barong as the medium of worship for sustainable forest management from a Hindu theological perspective in Amunduk Taro

Abstract

Background: In Balinese Hindu tradition, Barong is not merely a performing art, but a religious symbol interpreted as a manifestation of Saguna Brahman as well, specifically the aspect of Bānaspati Raja, the protector of nature and forests. In the region of Amunduk Taro, Gianyar Regency, Barong is worshipped not only as a spiritual entity but also as a medium for the veneration of sacred customary forests. The existence of more than 30 Barongs that are collectively cared for, as well as their association with sacred sites such as the Great Temple of Mount Raung, shows that the practice of Barong worship has been institutionalized in the socio-religious system of the community. Methods: This study uses a qualitative-descriptive approach with a religious ethnographic study design and a constructivist paradigm. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations and literature studies, and analyzed using Roland Barthes’ myth theory, Émile Durkheim’s religious theory and Ferdinand de Saussure’s symbolic interactionism. Findings: The results show that Barong in Amunduk Taro is interpreted as a real manifestation of God who acts as a spiritual, social and ecological intermediary. There is an inseparable relationship between the existence of Barong, the myth of sarwaada and the legend of Rsi Markandeya’s journey to the Taro region. Conclusion: His worship does not only strengthen collective solidarity and communal identity, but also forms a sacred ecological awareness. Barong is a living symbol that maintains harmony between humans, God and nature. Novelty of this article: The originality of this research lies in the integration of Hindu theology, ritual symbolism and local wisdom-based forest conservation. This research broadens the horizons of Hindu theology by offering an ecotheological perspective on Barong’s role as a pralingga that unites spirituality and environmental preservation within the Balinese religious system.