Bulian Village’s Ritual Language Documentation Research Project

Bulian Saa, the ritual language of the village of Bulian, is unique in that it has retained some autonomy; its lexicon differs significantly from the ritual speech of other Balinese varieties (such as names of deities, names of temples, and of sacred trees; in addition, Bulian does not follow the typical three temple system commonly found in other villages in Bali). This can offer valuable insight into the history of the northern-central region of Buleleng, Bali. Until recently, documentation of Bulian Saa has been completely lacking. This project aims to fill this gap and add to the literature on the richness and diversity of Balinese ritual language. In addition, because of the history of oral tradition and dissemination, it is crucial that community members, especially those of the younger generation, become aware of the richness of these traditions, beginning with an understanding of the contents of the chants. As such, this project aims to communicate the findings of the research to younger members of the community through gatherings at temple community halls, where the recordings will be played, and where the principal investigator, along with the priests, will explain the chants as well as some of the rituals used.