“Among Muslims, the Ngejot tradition is similar to silaturahmi [communal bonding]. This Hindu-Islam harmony is manifested in the form of delivering food to relatives and neighbors of different religions, especially during religious holidays, such as Galungan or Eid,” said I Gusti Ngurah Sudiana, according to Religious Affairs Ministry’s website, Saturday (4/6).
Sudiana said this tradition thrives in the diversity of Bali. According to him, the harmony has been built and lasted from time so long past to date.
The meaning behind the Ngejot tradition is also explained by I Gede Bagus Agung Suddhajinedra HS, the grandson of I Gede Bagus Sugriwa, an esteemed Balinese figure. He said the tradition is an offering of gratitude. At the Yadnya ceremony, for example, the family is obliged to return kindness (pengwales) to family members or banjars (Balinese customary villages) who have helped or treated them kindly.
“In the Galungan ceremony, for example, people give each other food. This is a form of kinship so the ceremony can strengthen ties among neighbors or the surrounding community,” he said. (un)