Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Borobudur Temple, is one of the world’s most renowned World Heritage Sites, and also stands as a symbol of Indonesia. Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, constructed between the 8th and 9th centuries by the Dynasty of Sailendra. It is located in Magelang Regency, Central Java, and stands graciously between two renowned mountains, Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu.
Constructed in the Mandala style, Borobudur embodies the universe as perceived in Buddhist beliefs. The temple is divided into three levels, Kamadhatu, Rupadhatu, and Arupadhatu, each representing a cycle of human life depicted in its carved reliefs.
The lowest level, Kamadhatu, represents the visible world, the present experienced by humans. This level explains the Karmawibhangga Sutra, the law of cause and effect. The reliefs carved on the temple wall depict the dark aspects of human nature and desires.
The middle level, Rupadhatu, represents the transitional realm, where humans are freed from worldly desires.
The highest level, Arupadhatu, represents the ultimate realm, the realm of the divine or Nirvana. Consisting of three circular terraces leading to a central dome or stupa, this level symbolizes the awakening from the worldly cycle.
Unlike the other levels, Arupadhatu has no ornaments or decorations, expressing the highest purity.
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The spiritual meaning and architecture of Borobudur have made it the main destination for Buddhist religious activities around the world. One of the most important activities for Buddhists is the Vesak celebration, observed during the full moon, also known as Purnama.
Vesak commemorates three significant events in the life of the Buddha: his birth, his enlightenment, and his passing.
During the Vesak celebration, Buddhists gather at Borobudur to perform a series of rituals, including a walk around the temple, meditation, and the recitation of sacred paritta (chants). The procession begins at the Kamadhatu level, and climbs steadily up to the Arupadhatu level, symbolizing the spiritual journey toward Nirvana.
The celebration often features the release of lanterns into the sky, symbolizing hopes and prayers for world peace.
The Vesak celebration at Borobudur holds deep significance for Buddhists, not only as a religious activity but also as an opportunity to strengthen the bonds among Buddhists from around the world.
(Raidi/Agung)
