If you’ve visited Bali a few times or stayed here long enough, you’ve likely seen temple ceremonies, Legong dance performances, and Canang Sari offerings on the streets. But there’s one ceremony that flies under the radar for most tourists.
This sacred ritual is called Metatah, the Balinese tooth filing ceremony. This isn’t some spa treatment or a cost-effective dental procedure – it’s a deep-rooted Balinese right of passage that holds profound significance.
And yes, it involves actual teeth filing. Here’s all you need to know about the history and significance of this fascinating ceremony.
What is Metatah?
Metatah (sometimes called Mesangih or Mepandes), is a coming-of-age ritual for Balinese Hindus. Some may simply refer to it as Potong Gigi. It’s usually performed during adolescence.
The ceremony is reserved for those who reach puberty or young adulthood. This is typically between the ages of 15 and 20. However, it’s not a strict rule and can sometimes be done later in life when the family deems it necessary.
While your own teenage years might have been all about bad fashion choices and buying the new Blink 182 albu, Balinese teens get a very different kind of milestone – they have their upper teeth filed down.
I know it sounds brutal, but it’s not really that intense. The process represents smoothing out human flaws like greed, anger, jealousy, arrogance, lust, and that urge to buy unnecessary stuff on Amazon.
Metatah isn’t about changing how someone’s mouth looks – it’s a symbolic transformation. It marks the moment when a young Balinese person steps into adulthood with more self-awareness, balance, and a deeper connection to their culture.
The Metatah Ceremony
If the idea of feeth filing gives you flashbacks to the Saw movies, rest assured – Metatah is nothing like that. It’s a carefully conducted ceremony, often performed at a family temple or at home, overseen by a Balinese priest (Mangku).
The occasion is filled with prayers, sacred chants, and symbolic offers, and music, making it more of a spiritual milestone than a dental appointment.
The tooth filing process typically involves:
Preparation – The teen is dressed in elaborate ceremonial attire, usually traditional Balinese clothing. They will also sit on a beautiful platform that seems quite royal. Their family will also surround them in support.
Blessings – The Mangku conducts prayers and offerings to seek diving protection and guidance.
Filing the teeth – A special tool is used to gentle file down the upper six front teeth. No drills. No Novocain. Just the skill of an experienced priest. The amount of filing varies with different priests and it’s mostly symbolic.
Symbolic meaning – Once the filing is done, the teen is now considered spiritually mature. They are gifted traditional sweets to “sweeten” the transition into adulthood – like a little reward.
Family celebration – No Balinese ceremony is complete with a feast of Babi Guling and some Arak. The event usually ends with a party of food and music (and perhaps a bit of karaoke).
How to witness a Metatah Ceremony
Unlike ceremonies at Bali temples where visitors can respectfully observe from a distance, the Metatah tooth filing ceremony is an intimate family occasion. You probably won’t come across one during your trip.
However, if you’re lucky enough to be invited to one, consider it a great honour. This means the family really likes your company and wants you to be part of this significant event. You’ll get to dress up in full Balinese gear to look the part.
That said, some cultural centres and community events may showcase certain aspects of the Metatah for educational purposes, allowing visitors to learn more about the ritual.
Why Metatah matters in modern Bali
One of the most admirable things about Balinese culture is that their traditions have withstood the test of time. Even in an era where everyone and their newborn child owns a smartphone, traditions remain strong.
While some urban families may opt for a simpler, private ceremony, Metatah remains an essential part of Balinese identity. It reinforces the connection between family, faith, and tradition, reminding young Balinese teens of their spiritual responsibilities before they set out into the rough world of adulthood.
For visitors, understanding Metatah offers a glimpse into the deep spirituality that’s part of everyday life in Bali. It’s a reminder that beyond the Instagrammable cafes and infinity pool beach clubs, Bali still thrives on customs and centuries-old beliefs that shape its culture.
A brief history of Metatah
This ritual has been practiced for centuries but the exact date of its origin is unclear and still up for debate. However, its roots trace all the way back to ancient Hindu beliefs that traveled to Bali from India via Java.
The concept of tooth filing originates from Hindu philosophies about human nature. Hindu scriptures relating to Dharma (moral duty) emphasize the obligation to control one’s negative traits that may lead to a complicated life.
In Hindu cosmology, human beings are believed to possess both diving and animalistic qualities. The six lower human traits (called Sad Ripu), are seen as obstacles to spiritual enlightenment. Filing the teeth is meant to symbolically remove these negative tendencies, purifying the individual and bringing them closer to their spiritual essence.
Final Thoughts
If you ever hear about a Balinese tooth filing ceremony happening during your time in Bali, approach it with curiosity but also with respect. It’s not a tourist attraction. it’s a sacred tradition that defines a moment in a young Balinese person’s life.
While you may not be filing your teeth anything soon, appreciating the meaning behind the Metatah can give you a richer, more meaningful perspective on Bali beyond the usual touristy travel itineraries.
Next time you’re in Bali, in between enjoying happy hour during sunset and chasing waterfalls, take a moment to reflex on the island’s beautiful traditions. And perhaps – just maybe – be grateful that your rite of passage into adulthood didn’t involve a nail file to your teeth.
Fun Facts about Metatah
Neil
I’ve been in Bali for so long I’ve grown roots (literally and metaphorically). For the past 10 years, I’ve experienced Bali from every angle. I’ve explored the temples, I’ve tried all the food, and I’m proudly fluent in the Indonesian language. I hope our website helps you get an authentic experience for your holiday in Bali, whether you’re here to enjoy the finer things in life, or to learn more about this Bali’s rich culture.
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