Nyoman Jaya is a very holy man. It is one of five Mangkus (The priests of the temple) in his local village Pejeng Kelod about 10 minutes from Ubud center.
Nyoman comes from a large family of seven children. He has four brothers and two sisters. There is a year a vote was held in the village to choose a Mangku. A clear signal was received from the gods, Nyoman was chosen and a special ceremony was held. It was recognized by voters as Nyoman was an extraordinary being with special gifts, including the ability to communicate with the gods. As Mangku, his future duties include officiating at the temple ceremonies and conducting community rituals.
He lives a very busy life waking up every day at dawn to pray and meditate and it is necessary to attend a busy schedule of ceremonies, most every night, it must be present at the local temple to pray. Somehow, he manages to find time to teach at a local high school.
Nyoman explained that knowledge is obtained from the gods through meditation, not so traditional methods, although it consults holy books at a time. One day, when Nyoman is chosen to leave this physical world, his son will be an option to take over the roll as Mangku, but it is not mandatory and may be decided at the time.
I could say Nyoman Jaya was a very clean person and was proud to take its important place in Balinese society and, as he explains, "I do everything for the gods."
This interview was conducted at an ancient temple after a session of meditation and prayer.