ATMA PENANGSARAN
ATMA PENANGSARAN - Ink & pigments on paper, 75 x 73 cm, by Deknoo Adnyana Dass 2025
In Balinese Hindu belief, Atma is the soul or life force—an eternal spark of Brahman that dwells within all living beings. Upon death, the soul embarks on its journey through the afterlife, first arriving at Tegal Penangsaran—a barren, sun-scorched land where tormented souls run in agony, punished according to their karma.
This realm reflects the law of Karmapala: every action has a consequence. Described in the sacred Lontar Atma Prasangsa, it is presided over by Sang Jogor Manik, a giant judge of souls, and inhabited by terrifying beings who mete out punishment based on sins committed in life.
Notable torments include: Kawah Tamra Gohmuka—a copper cauldron for the gluttonous and greedy; Tihing Petung—a burning bamboo tree for black magic practitioners and the uninitiated; Batu Macepak—a crushing stone for the arrogant and verbally abusive; Kayu Curiga—a dagger-leaf tree punishing adulterers; Titi Gonggang—a precarious bridge for deceivers and oath-breakers; Waitarini River—a boiling current for murderers; Bhuta Lilipan—a beast torturing unjust animal killers; Asu Gaplong—a flaming dog punishing manipulators; Bhuta Lende—spirits who burn the unfaithful; Sang Bhuta Mandar & Mandir—twins punishing neglectful children.
Others include demon birds, maggots, thorny trees, and giant snakes for sins like infidelity, and spiritual abuse.
These visions of the afterlife are not just myth—they serve as ethical reflections, urging the living to honor duty, compassion, and truth. In the end, every soul reaps what it sows.
