Let's learn the language of Bali

Om Swastiastu.

When you are working or on vacation to a country that understands very well and can say a few words or phrases in the local language. The people you meet will surely be happy with your greeting in their language. For example, if you are on holiday in Bali, it looks like you need to understand and be able to memorize some words or sentences in Bali. The official language here in Bali is Indonesian; however, they speak Balinese as well.

Balinese dance. Image: diversiondivetravel.com.au

The traditional Balinese greeting is, naturally, a Hindu one – the hands are clasped in front of the chest in a relaxed prayer position and the person says, “Om Swasti Astu”, meaning ‘peace and greetings from God’. Or Swasti means health, health may be upon you. 

Swasti really means the one who is established in spiritual health. Om Swastiastu is also often interpreted as May God Bless You. This greeting will break the ice when you meet with the Balinese, and they really appreciate it.

The letters and consonants in the language of Bali. Image: omniglot.com

Although the people of Bali are familiar with the conversation in English, Indonesian, Japanese or French, but it will be easy to get along with the natives of Bali if you also speak in their language, even if only a few words. Some general remarks and say you would have encountered in Bali are as follows:

Rahajeng Semeng – Good morning

Sampun Ngajeng? - Have you eaten?

Kenken kabare or Sapunapi Gatra? Or Apa Kabar? - How are you?

Matur sukseme or Terimakasih – Thank you very much.

Rahajeng Wengi – Good evening

Pamit Nggih – Good Bye

Sugra Nggih – Exuse me

Tiang becik-becik – I am fine

Yes: Inggih, Patut, Ya.

No: Tan, Nenten

Don’t worry about those three kinds of Balinese language. All you need is some basic expressions in the Balinese language which are commonly accepted Bali-wide.

What is your name? Sira pesengen ragane?

My name is Jane : Wastan tiang Jane

Where have you been? Dija mara?

Where are you going? Lakar kija?

I am from Italy: Tiang uling Italy

What time is it? Jam kuda niki?

How much? Aji kuda niki?

You're welcome: sukseme mewali

Oh my God! : Dewa ratu!

 Where have you been? : Dija mara?

 What time is it? : Jam kuda niki?

If you see a pretty girl, you can say ragane jegeg sajan, it means "you are so beautiful". Maybe she'll fall in love with you and eventually married a Balinese woman. 

Wow.

Om Swastiastu, a Balinese greeting. Image: jadebellydance.com

Smiling is also an important part of Balinese society, and then you need to express yourself with a sincere smile. They are very friendly to foreigners so that Bali is one of the world-class tourist destinations. 

Many foreigners such as artists, writers, painters, and researchers are happy to settle in this paradise island. You can buy books about Bali before you visit Bali so you understand art, language, and their unique culture.