Dewi Sri

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Dewi Sri is the Javanese and Balinese goddess of rice, fertility, and agriculture. She is revered as the primary deity associated with rice cultivation, which is a staple food and a significant part of the culture in Indonesia. Dewi Sri is also known by other names such as Nyai Pohaci Sanghyang Asri in Sundanese culture.

Mythology

Dewi Sri is often depicted as a beautiful young woman, symbolizing the fertility and life-giving properties of rice. According to Javanese and Balinese mythology, she is the daughter of Batara Guru, the supreme god in the Javanese and Balinese pantheon. Her story is intertwined with themes of life, death, and rebirth, reflecting the agricultural cycle.

In one popular myth, Dewi Sri was born from the body of a giant serpent. Her body parts transformed into various plants, with her head becoming rice, her eyes becoming coconuts, and her teeth becoming corn. This myth underscores her role as the source of all agricultural abundance.

Cult and Worship

Dewi Sri is worshipped through various rituals and ceremonies, particularly during the rice planting and harvesting seasons. In Java and Bali, offerings are made to her in the form of rice, flowers, and other agricultural products. These offerings are placed in small shrines located in rice fields, homes, and temples.

One of the most significant ceremonies dedicated to Dewi Sri is the Seren Taun festival, celebrated by the Sundanese people. This festival marks the end of the rice harvest and includes traditional music, dance, and offerings to thank Dewi Sri for her blessings.

Symbolism

Dewi Sri symbolizes not only agricultural fertility but also the well-being and prosperity of the community. Her association with rice, a staple food, makes her an essential figure in ensuring food security and sustenance. She is also seen as a guardian of the earth and a protector of the environment.

Cultural Impact

Dewi Sri's influence extends beyond religious practices to various aspects of Indonesian culture, including art, literature, and folklore. She is a common subject in traditional Javanese and Balinese paintings, sculptures, and performances. Her stories are passed down through generations, preserving her legacy and the cultural importance of rice cultivation.

See Also

• Agriculture in Indonesia
• Balinese Hinduism
• Javanese mythology
• Rice production in Indonesia