tmi34185 3/14/2025 8:18:20 AM

(I) Nestling within dynamic Balinese culture comes one of the world's most intriguing and peculiar events: Nyepi. The Balinese New Year, better known as Nyepi, doesn't involve parties or fireworks. (II) This follows with a deep silent day of self-meditation and spiritual cleansing (III). It is a holy day, derived from the Saka Calendar, when the predominantly Hindu population of this island gets an opportunity to reunite with their inner self and their gods. (IV)

The preparation for Nyepi starts days in advance, with the execution of various colored and meaningful rituals. The most interesting include an Ogoh-Ogoh parade where huge and artistic statues, which represent evil spirits, are taken along the streets. Made from bamboo and paper, these statues constitute both kinds of artistic work and forms of exorcising the island from all negative feelings. The Ogoh-Ogoh figures are ritually burned in a spectacular display as the sun is setting, a ritual that symbolizes destruction to evil spirits and spiritual rejuvenation.

But on Nyepi Day itself, the island is supposed to be in full stillness-no flights, no traffic, no lights, and no noise. Even tourists are encouraged to stay indoors and minimize activities by this convention. The streets are empty; it is a case whereby the island stood still, holding its breath. This silence amongst the Balinese people is an inside thing, deeply. They go into meditation, fasting, and reflection on life for a balance between good and evil in themselves. The silence is said to deceive the evil spirits that the island is indeed uninhabited, thus offering protection for the forthcoming year.

More than a religious holiday, Nyepi is deeply enriching in culture and spirituality, underlining the values of harmony and introspection particular to the Balinese. For any visitor, the experience of Nyepi is at once an exercise in humility and a source of inspiration. A stepping back from the din of modern life into the emotive power of silence, leaving with great respect for timeless traditions and the never-failing devotion of the people to beliefs.

(Adapted from viceroybali)

Question 31. Where in paragraph I does the following sentence best fit?

It is a rare experience given to both locals and visitors of the deep stillness in harmony of the whole island.

A. (I)        B. (II)        C. (II)        D. (IV)

Question 32. The phrase in advance in the second paragraph could be best replaced by_______

A. beforehand        B. after-hours        C. immediately        D. during the event

Question 33. The word its in paragraph 3 refers to________.

A. case        B. island        C. convention        D. silence

Question 34. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as part of the Nyepi preparation in the passage?

        A. Ogoh-Ogoh parade                B. Exorcising evil spirits

        C. Ritual burning of statues        D. Elaborate fireworks displays

Question 35. Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 3?

A. Nyepi Day involves a complete halt of all activities, including travel, lights, and noise, creating a rare experience of stillness.

B. The island prepares for Nyepi by engaging in large parades, including loud celebrations and fireworks.

C. Tourists are invited to join in traditional ceremonies, including meditation and spiritual cleansing.

D. The silence during Nyepi is an opportunity for residents to engage in large community events for spiritual renewal.

Question 36. The word "stillness" in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to________.

        A. chaos        B. quiet        C. reflection        D. peace

Question 37. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. Nyepi is celebrated with loud fireworks and festive celebrations.

B. The Ogoh-Ogoh statues are burned as a part of a purification ritual.

C. Tourists are encouraged to take part in every Nyepi ritual with the locals.

D. The silence on Nyepi is meant to symbolize the island's abandonment by the spirits.

Question 38. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 3?

A. The absence of noise makes evil spirits believe that no one is living on the island, offering protection for the coming year.

B. The noise of Nyepi is thought to be a signal to evil spirits, making them think the island is empty and keeping it safe for the year ahead.

C. The stillness during Nyepi keeps the islanders safe by making evil spirits believe the island is inhabited.

D. The silence of Nyepi creates an illusion for the evil spirits, ensuring its protection for the following year.

Question 39. Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. The silence of Nyepi is a form of spiritual reflection and a way to protect the islanders.

B. The preparation for Nyepi includes loud parades and celebrations, which contrast with the quiet of the actual day.

C. The Ogoh-Ogoh statues are destroyed in a ritual that symbolizes cleansing the island from negative forces.

D. Nyepi is an event mostly aimed at tourists who visit Bali for a cultural experience.

Question 40. Which of the following best summarizes the passage?

A. Nyepi is a day of profound spiritual reflection, where both locals and visitors take part in complete silence to foster self-awareness and protection from evil spirits.

B. Nyepi is an annual event in Bali, featuring parades, silence, and rituals, all aimed at cleansing the spirit and creating harmony between locals and visitors.

C. Nyepi is a significant religious event in Bali, observed with various rituals, a grand parade, and a complete day of silence for everyone, fostering spiritual awareness and inner peace.

D. During Nyepi, the residents of the island practice complete silence, and tourists are encouraged to stay indoors and reflect on the cultural significance and traditions of the holiday.

40. THPT Hậu Lộc 1 - Thanh Hóa (Tốt nghiệp THPT 2025 môn Tiếng Anh)