Barong Ket Dance: The Spirit of Traditional Mythology in Balinese Society

Abstract

Barong Ket is one of the traditional art forms that represent the noble values of spiritual culture, which continue to live, endure, and evolve in harmony with the spiritual dynamics of Balinese society. The existence of Barong Ket is deeply rooted in daily life, as it is believed to possess sacred power that protects the village and its people. Barong Ket is regarded as a symbol of virtue, standing in contrast to Rangda, who symbolizes evil. Together, they embody the dualistic cosmic forces or the Rwa Bhineda concept — a worldview centered on balance and harmony within the universe. In the context of Balinese society, this dance is not merely an aesthetic performance but also serves as a medium of traditional education that internalizes moral, spiritual, and social values. This study examined the role of the Barong Ket Dance in transmitting the spirit of traditional education within Balinese society, emphasizing its ritual, symbolic, and pedagogical functions. The research employed a qualitative approach with an ethnographic method, combining data from participatory observation, interviews, and literature review. The findings revealed that the Barong Ket Dance functions as a collective learning space, where the community — particularly the younger generation — gains understanding of the philosophy of life balance, communal solidarity, and respect for transgenerational cultural values. Furthermore, the presence of Barong Ket in piodalan or ceremonies at temples illustrates how myth and tradition are transformed into a continuous form of cultural education. Thus, the Barong Ket Dance can be understood as a manifestation of wisdom that not only strengthens Balinese cultural identity but also contributes to a universal understanding of the importance of maintaining harmony among human beings, nature, and transcendent forces.