Borobudur Temple of Yogyakarta
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist monument in South East Asia, some scholars believe that the site was originally intended as a Hindu temple, but was converted to a Buddhist monument after construction had begun.
The finished temple recreates in minature a microcosm of the Buddhist cosmos. The pathway up the temple spirals around the center so that the pilgrim may view over a kilometer of bas-reliefs depicting events found in Buddhist sutras and in the Buddha’s life.
The base of the temple is square, perhaps to symbolize the profanity of the earth. As the pilgrim rises, the squareness gives way to circular rings on the upper terraces, symbolizing the heavens. The rings are composed of miniature stupas, each holding a Buddha inside. This level was probably meant to represent the Buddhist world of “formlessness” in which various Buddhas dwell.
Borobudur Temple is a Masterpiece of Human Ingenuity and Artistry
At the center of the upper platform is a giant empty stupa. It is not known whether the stupa was always empty, but if it was, the stupa’s emptiness conveys the symbolism of having arrived at nirvana where the chain of rebirths finally ends.
The form of the temple is rather unique for its age. Several centuries later, similar (but smaller) mandala temples were built in Cambodia and Thailand. Unlike Borobudur, those temples have “Mt. Meru” at the center, not a large stupa. Mt. Meru is the sacred Buddhist mountain that is believed to reach up into the heavens from the earth far below.
Borobudur Temple attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. Visitors can explore the temple’s various levels and admire the intricate carvings and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is also a popular spot for sunrise and sunset views.
Borobudur Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a masterpiece of human ingenuity and artistry. It stands as a testament to Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and attracts people with its spiritual ambiance and awe-inspiring beauty.
