How does the Hindu caste system affect Balinese language
usage?
One of the key differences between Balinese and Indonesian
is that Balinese language usage is dictated by a caste system.
Derived from the Indian Hindu caste concept, the Balinese
version is a hierarchy of four levels: Brahmana, Satria, Wesia
and Sudra/Jaba. Originally there were many levels of speech
within this structure. The vocabulary used in each language
is so different that at times it can sound almost like separate
languages. Today, however, it would be safe to say that there
are really only five:
1. Basa Lumrah
This is everyday language known and spoken by all Balinese.
This is a good place to start learning before you try mixing
it up with the other levels. Sudra/Jaba families and friends
use this amongst themselves and sometimes people of caste
use it with people who are casteless.
2. Basa Alus Singgih
This is the language used when talking to or referring to
a priest or someone from the priest caste. The most polite
of all the levels, it is also the most rarely used, therefore
the most difficult to use and remember. Normally spoken softer
and at a slower pace, the vocabulary is more closely related
to Javanese and Sanskrit.
3. Basa Mider/Madia
This is a polite language too but it is interspersed with
words from Basa Lumrah. Most of the polite words used are
those either frequently used in speech or ones that refer
to a person’s body, e.g. go, come, eat, sleep, get pregnant,
eyes, head etc.
4. Basa Sor
Priests and people of caste use this level of speech when
talking or referring to people of lower caste, casteless people
or outsiders. It is more polite than using Basa Lumrah.
5. Basa Kasar
This is the lowest from of Balinese and it is only used when
referring to animals, somebody you don’t like, and when
you’re angry. People from Buleleng are renowned for
using Basa Kasar a lot in their everyday speech. They reckon
it sounds more familiar!
Copyright@ Kulture Kid 2006
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