Wesak Day is a Buddhist way to celebrate Buddha’s birth and, for some Buddhists, his “awakening”. When we think about “enlightenment”, the only person who comes to mind is Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha.
Most Buddhists, in fact, believe in the teachings of that man, who realized that wealth and luxury did not ensure happiness, but who grew spiritually conscious and achieved his contentment and aim of meaning in life.
Borobudur is the world’s biggest Buddhist temple, and it is one of Southeast Asia’s great archeological sites, alongside Bagan in Myanmar and Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Borobudur is still a famous gathering place, with Buddhists in Indonesia commemorating Wesak Day there.
Apart from that, we have our own Buddhist temple in our country, which our Buddhist friends as well as citizens of different faiths visit.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si Temple is an elegant 19th century Buddhist temple perched above Penang Island’s hills. Thousands of exquisite pictures of Buddha and hundreds of exceptional detailed carvings, sculptures, and paintings adorn the interior and outside of the temple halls, pagodas, and archways.
The intricate architectural designs convey important Chinese cultural and Buddhist ideas. There is an outside temple garden where visitors can wander while enjoying the lovely temple, which includes the three-tiered Kek Lok Si Pagoda, each of which has its distinct architectural style related to Buddhism.
Thean Hou Temple
A six-stage buddhist temple, Thean Hou Temple, is renowned as the Goddess of Heaven Temple. It is also a sanctuary for worshipers to pray for the deity of Mercy Guan Yin. The temple features detailed Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, contemporary architectures and traditional ornamented sculptures.
Enjoy the grand red pillar entrance, the columns and the pagoda roofing inspired by the dragon of the temple. Discover the modern Buddhist Pagoda and the octogonal lobby with Buddha’s pictures. Relax by the tortoise pool and walk around the Chinese herbs’ garden.
Chin Swee Cave Temple
I’m sure this temple is visited by many living in Malaysia. On a cliff side near the Genting Highlands Resort peak is Chin Swee Cave Temple. The temple is a holy site for the Buddha and the devotee of mercy to pray. Discover at this religious shrine the core of Chinese heritage and beliefs.
Explore the renowned 9-story pagoda illuminated by 10,000 blessing lamps put by Buddha worshippers and figures. Set off in Genting Highlands with the wonderful panoramic views and enjoy a soft cold wind at the deck.
There are many other lovely temples with outstanding features and history. Some temples are also honored by so many buddhists but not even on the Internet. However, this is one of the amazing privileges of living in a diverse country – to learn about and participate in the culture of different religions in our country. We from Varnam would like to wish a very pleasant Wesak day to our Buddhist friends.
“It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you.” -Buddha
Source: Culturetrip
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