Rwa Bhineda: How Balinese Embrace The Contradiction

A human being cannot be defined by just one aspect of their life. We are complex beings, multifaceted and dynamic, with the capacity to embody seemingly opposing qualities that are not necessarily seen as bad. We are allowed to be both gentle and fierce, to be strong and vulnerable, and nurturing yet pushing the boundaries to promote transformation. We can be the calm in the storm and the storm itself, embodying the contradictions that make us human. By embracing this complexity, we can break free from the constraints of binary thinking and discover a more nuanced, authentic version of ourselves.

"There is no light without shadow and no psychic wholeness without imperfection. To round itself out, life calls not for perfection but for completeness; and for this the Thorn in the Flesh is needed, the suffering of defects without which there is no progress and no ascent." - Carl Jung

In Bali, there's a profound philosophy called Rwa Bhineda that celebrates the coexistence of opposing forces. This ancient wisdom offers valuable insights into navigating life's complexities and finding balance in a world filled with these contradictions. By embracing Rwa Bhineda, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and how we see the world around us, where things are complex and multifaceted yet this complexity is what makes being human the most beautiful experience a soul can have. Here are some ways to apply this philosophy in our daily lives:

1. Recognize that opposing forces are necessary for balance and harmony, not only within ourselves but this also applies in many other levels of exsistence.

2. Let yourself embracing the paradox and acknowledge that life is full of contradictions, and that these paradoxes can be complementary rather than conflicting or canceling each other out.

3. Cultivate a nuance understanding of the world and ourselves, recognizing that things are often more complex than they seem.

Kali & Uma

The goddesses Kali and Uma are powerful symbols of Rwa Bhineda, embodying the dual aspects of the divine feminine. On one hand, Kali is often depicted as a fierce warrior goddess, representing transformation, destruction, and empowerment. Her energy is intense and unbridled, clearing the way for new growth and renewal. On the other hand, Uma is often depicted as a gentle and nurturing goddess, representing love, compassion, and devotion. Her energy is soothing and calming, providing comfort and solace in times of chaos.

At first glance, Kali and Uma may seem like opposing forces, embodying contradictory qualities that cannot be reconciled. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that their contrasting qualities are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary aspects of a unified whole. Kali's destructive power can be seen as a necessary precursor to Uma's creative and nurturing energy. Without destruction, there can be no rebirth or renewal. Similarly, Uma's gentle nature can be seen as a balancing force to Kali's intense energy, providing a sense of stability and calm in the midst of turmoil.

Parvati's fierce form: Kali, counterpart to the gentle Uma

The duality of Kali and Uma reflects the complexities of human experience, where we often embody both fierce and gentle qualities. We may be strong and resilient in the face of adversity, yet vulnerable and sensitive in our personal relationships. By embracing this duality, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. We can learn to tap into our inner Kali, harnessing our creative potential and inner strength, while also cultivating our inner Uma, nurturing our relationships and emotional well-being.

Ultimately, the story of Kali and Uma teaches us that Rwa Bhineda is not just a philosophical concept, but a lived experience. It reminds us that opposing forces are not mutually exclusive, but interconnected and interdependent. By embracing this paradox, we can find balance, harmony, and wholeness within ourselves and the world around us.

The Wisdom of Kahlil Gibran

The poet Kahlil Gibran once said, "Your joy is your sorrow unmasked." This quote beautifully illustrates the concept of Rwa Bhineda. The deeper that sorrow carved into your being, the more joy you can contain. It's just the law of the universe where the darker your shadow is, the brighter light you can contain. Opposing forces are inseparable, they always come together: "When one sits alone at your board, remember that the other is asleep upon your bed". By grasping the concept of Rwa Bhineda, we can gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.