The main volcano did of Bali did in fact erupt in 1963 and killed 1,700 people. However, the lava that flowed down the mountain just missed the temple by a few meters, which was regarded as a miracle.Balinese interpreted the survival of Besakih during the eruption to mean that although the gods were demonstrating their power, they did not want to obliterate the system in which they were worshiped.The site of this shrine was known as a place of worship as early as 1284 (if not much earlier). Although the sea is associated with impurity compared to the mountain, in Bali temples are needed near the sea as well.Seven sea temples at different points on the coast provide a kind of ritual safety net around the island that protects the people from evil influences arising from the sea.One of the these temples, Tanah Lot, is famous among locals and tourists alike. It is said that it is guarded below by venomous sea snakes.Punctuating this ritual calendar are two events, known as Nyepi and Galungan.On Nyepi, which is observed once each solar year (in the Indian Hindu calendar), which is different from the 210-day Balinese year. On that occasion, people are expected to fast, remain silent, and meditate from 6 am to 6 pm, so as to reflect on the state of their lives.It is a time of spiritual renewal.During this time people do not work, keep lights down, do not play television or other appliances much, nor go on the streets or on the beach.