Gecko on the Wall, a Reflection of the Harmony Between Nature and Humanity in Bali
visitors’guidetobali, DENPASAR- The common house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) in Balinese culture and environment is not only an animal that inhabits tropical regions and helps humans by keeping mosquitoes at bay.
The gecko in Balinese culture can be a sign of life, can be part of the balance of nature in a broader sense, or can even be a reflection of the Balinese human philosophy, namely Tri Hita Karana.
As an animal that crawls on walls and is a permanent resident of houses, hotel resorts, and villas in Bali, the gecko is not a frightening creature. This is because the gecko acts as a “natural guard” that preys on mosquitoes, flies, and moths—types of insects that often bother humans.
According to Dr. Made Sudiarta, an environmental biology lecturer at Udayana University, even though it is often feared by tourists staying in Bali, the gecko is actually part of the balance of the home’s ecosystem. Without this gecko, insects could multiply and pose a threat to human health.
“Because the island of Bali has a tropical climate rich in humidity, the presence of geckos is not a sign of a dirty house, but rather proof of a living, natural ecological chain,” he explained.
Besides being a natural guard, the gecko in Balinese culture is not just a biological creature;8 it also holds cultural significance. Because its “cek” sound is sometimes regarded as a “natural affirmation” if it appears in the middle of an important conversation, some people interpret it as a sign of truth or agreement.
This symbolic meaning illustrates how the Balinese view nature: not as something separate, but as something that coexists with humans. This view is consistent with the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which represents the three sources of happiness and life balance: this philosophy consists of the harmonious relationship between humans and God (Parhyangan), with fellow humans (Pawongan), and with nature (Palemahan).
In the context of Palemahan, the gecko becomes a small symbol of how humans and nature can live in harmony. Thus, accepting its presence without disgust or fear is a form of respect for other living creatures.
The gecko does not merely live as a freeloader, as it also contributes significantly to protecting the house from insect disturbances. Meanwhile, in the Pawongan dimension, the presence of the gecko even creates light social interaction.
Many families use its presence as material for jokes or a symbol of familiarity, such as, “The gecko is attending the family meeting,” which is a typical joke often heard in Balinese homes.
In Parhyangan, some Balinese people interpret the gecko as a creature created by God that also has a role in maintaining cosmic balance. By not killing or driving it away carelessly, humans show respect for life.
Although the gecko in Balinese culture is not a dangerous animal, in the tourism industry, the gecko is often one of the major fears for tourists, especially those from the Middle East and India.
As stated by the Operational Manager of Om Ham Retreat and Resort Ubud, I Gusti Ayu Julita Dewi, some guests planning to stay at Om Ham Retreat and Resort often complain about the presence of geckos.
However, Julita stated that her team already has a solution to overcome these tourist complaints. This includes providing understanding to tourists that the gecko is not a dangerous animal and its nature is not disturbing.
“Furthermore, if the guest still feels uncomfortable, we will try to remove the gecko, either by relocating it or by using a non-lethal gecko repellent spray,” she said.
Julita stated that the management of Om Ham itself does not permit the killing of geckos for any reason. Besides the gecko being an indicator of environmental quality, she said that in Balinese culture, the gecko is an auspicious animal whose existence is closely linked to the spiritual life of the Balinese people. ***