Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Balinese Numerals: The Traditional Numbering System Nearly Forgotten

Balinese Numerals

Like many ancient writing systems, Balinese script has its own numeral system called wilangan Bali — still used in lontar manuscripts and religious contexts.

Digits 0-9 in Balinese

Arabic	Balinese	Unicode
0	᭐	U+1BD0
1	᭑	U+1BD1
2	᭒	U+1BD2
3	᭓	U+1BD3
4	᭔	U+1BD4
5	᭕	U+1BD5

(and more...)

Usage in Lontar

In lontar manuscripts, Balinese numerals are used for page numbering. The Saka calendar traditionally uses Balinese numerals.

Preservation

Though less common in daily life, preservation efforts continue through formal education and lontar digitization.

This article was drafted with AI assistance and is reviewed over time. Check Balinese wording with a teacher or native speaker before using it for anything official, printed, or ceremonial.

Related Articles

Naskah Kuno

Lontar: Ancient Manuscripts Preserving Balinese Wisdom

Thousands of lontar are stored in various temples and libraries in Bali, containing knowledge of medicine, astronomy, literature, and Hindu philosophy.

7 menit

Naskah Kuno

Kakawin: The Magnificent Epic Literature of Ancient Bali

Kakawin are epic poems in Old Javanese written in Balinese script. Works like Kakawin Ramayana and Arjunawiwaha represent the pinnacle of archipelago literature.

8 menit

Panduan Belajar

Effective Ways to Learn Balinese Script for Beginners

Learning Balinese script doesn't have to be difficult. With the right approach, anyone can master it in weeks.

4 menit