Monday, September 22, 2008

Borobudur

Who does not know Borobudur? Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the ninth century . This Buddhist temple has 1460 relief panels and 504 effigies of Buddha in its compound. Millions of people are eager to visit this building as one of the Wonder World Heritage. It is hardly surprising given that architecturally and functionally, as the place for Buddhists to say their prayers, Borobudur is attractive.



Borobudur was built by King Samaratungga, one of the kings of the Old Kingdom Mataram, a descendant of the dynasty Sailendra. The name of Borobudur, as some say, means having a mountain terraces (Budha), while others stated that the media Borobudur monastery in high place.

Borobudur was built as a ten-building terraces. The height, before it was restored to 42 meters and 34.5 meters after the renovation because the lowest level was used as a base of support. The first six terraces are in the form of squares, two terraces above are circular in shape, and the upper terrace of them is the statue of Buddha that faces west. Each terrace symbolizes the stage of human life. In line with the Mahayana Buddha, anyone who intends to reach the level of Buddha must go through each stage of life.



The base of Borobudur, called Kamadhatu symbolizes that human beings are still bound by lust. The top four stories are called for the Rupadhatu symbol that human beings have been set free from lust, but they are still bound to the appearance and form. On this terrace, effigies of the Buddha are placed in open spaces, while the other three upper terraces where effigies of Buddha are confined in domes with sets are called Arupadhatu, which symbolizes that human beings have been free of lust, appearance and form. The upper part is called Arupa symbolizes nirvana, where the Buddha is residing. All groups of relief in the temple of Borobudur reflect the teachings of Buddha. For the reason, this temple serves as a means to educate those who want to learn Buddhism.


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