Barong
/ˈbɑːr.oŋ/noun
A traditional Balinese and Javanese mythological lion-like creature, or a long Indonesian knife/dagger in some regional uses.
Did you know?In Balinese religion, Barong is the benevolent spirit of protection who battles Rangda, and performances of their struggle are treated as sacred ritual drama, not mere entertainment.
Etymological Timeline
Pre-17th Century
Balinese
barong
“A protective spirit or mythic guardian figure, often appearing as a lion-like sacred mask or dance character.”
Pre-17th Century
Javanese
barong
“A masked ritual figure or beast-like sacred character in performance and ceremony.”
19th Century
Dutch
barong
“A term recorded by colonial observers for the Balinese/Javanese sacred figure and related ceremonial performances.”
20th Century
English
barong
“A borrowed term used in English for the Balinese mythic figure and, more loosely, related Indonesian ceremonial items.”