How to Create Canang Sari: A Guide to Balinese Offering

Canang Sari is a traditional offering made by the Balinese people to their gods and spirits. The offering is made of woven coconut leaves or banana leaves, which are then filled with flowers, incense, and food. The offering is usually placed in the family temple or at the entrance of a home, shop, or office, as a symbol of gratitude and respect to the gods and spirits.

The word “Canang” is derived from the Balinese word “ca” which means “beautiful”, and “nang” which means “purpose”. The word “Sari” means essence, thus Canang Sari is considered the most essential offering made in Balinese Hinduism. The purpose of Canang Sari is to express gratitude to the gods and spirits for the blessings received, to ask for their continued protection, and to seek harmony and balance in the universe.

The Significance of Canang Sari

Canang Sari is considered a way of life for the Balinese people, who believe that the offering is a direct communication with the gods and spirits. The offering is believed to have the power to purify the body and mind, as well as the environment in which it is made. The flowers and the incense used in the offering are considered to be a symbol of purity and peace, while the food represents the sharing of blessings.

How to Make Canang Sari

Making Canang Sari is a simple process that involves weaving, arranging, and offering. Below are the steps involved in making the offering:

Step 1: Preparing the Materials

To make Canang Sari, you will need several materials including coconut leaves, flowers, incense, and food. The flowers used in the offering should be fresh and fragrant, and should not be wilted or discolored. The incense used in the offering should be natural and of good quality. The food used in the offering can be rice, fruit, or sweets.

Step 2: Weaving the Coconut Leaves

The first step in making Canang Sari is to weave the coconut leaves. To do this, take two coconut leaves and fold them in half, then fold them again to form a square shape. Next, tie the leaves together using a thin piece of bamboo, forming a small tray-like shape. The tray should be small enough to be held in one hand.

Step 3: Arranging the Flowers

Once the coconut leaves have been woven into a tray, the next step is to arrange the flowers. Start by placing a few pieces of frangipani or other fragrant flowers in the center of the tray. Then, arrange other flowers around the central flowers, making sure that the colors and shapes are balanced.

Step 4: Adding the Incense

The next step is to add the incense. Place one or two sticks of incense in the center of the flowers, making sure that they are upright.

Step 5: Adding the Food

The final step is to add the food. The food can be placed in a small container, such as a banana leaf or a small cup made from coconut leaves. The food should be placed on the side of the tray, making sure that it does not touch the flowers or incense.

Step 6: Offering the Canang Sari

Once the Canang Sari has been prepared, it is time to offer it. The offering should be placed in the family temple or at the entrance of a home, shop, or office. Before placing the offering, it is important to cleanse the area and yourself with holy water, which is often available at the temple or can be made by mixing water with a small amount of turmeric powder.

When offering the Canang Sari, it is important to hold it with both hands, and to place it on a clean and flat surface. The offering should be placed in a direction that is deemed appropriate, such as towards the east, as this is the direction that is associated with the gods and spirits.

After the offering has been made, it is customary to perform a brief prayer, expressing gratitude and asking for blessings from the gods and spirits. This can be done in any language, as long as it is done with sincerity and devotion.

Making a Canang Sari is a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with the Balinese Hindu culture and express gratitude to the gods and spirits. It’s a wonderful activity to do alone or with friends and family, and the process of making one can be very relaxing and meditative. So why not give it a try and create your own Canang Sari? You can find the materials you need in many local markets or online, and you might be surprised at how easy and enjoyable the process is. We hope this article has inspired you to try making a Canang Sari and experience the spiritual benefits that it brings. Happy crafting!