As an expert in Japanese history and Buddhism, I have always been fascinated by the 7th century in Japan. It was a pivotal time when Buddhism first flourished in the country, and four magnificent temples were built: Asukadera, Kudara Odera, Kawadera, and Yakushiji. These temples, known as the Four Great Temples in ancient texts, hold great significance in Japanese culture and religion. In Buddhism, a monastery serves as a home for monks and nuns, as well as a center for meditation and learning. Lay people often visit monasteries for retreats or to study and immerse themselves in Buddhist teachings.
These monasteries are typically located in isolated areas such as forests or mountains, providing a peaceful and quiet environment for spiritual growth. They are also self-sufficient, relying on their own resources or the support of the lay community. One of the most significant events in Buddhist history occurred some 200 years after the death of Buddha. King Asoka visited Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, and built a stone pillar with an inscription commemorating this sacred site. However, Lumbini was abandoned for centuries until the 19th century when excavations revealed the existence of a temple and a sandstone sculpture depicting scenes from Buddha's birth. Today, there is an ambitious project underway in Bodh Gaya, Bihar to build the largest statue in the world - a bronze statue of Maitreya Buddha standing at 152 meters high with 50 stories.
Maitreya Buddha is a representation of the Buddha of the future and is derived from the Sanskrit word maitri, meaning universal compassion and love. This statue is estimated to cost 150 million US dollars and is designed to last for at least 1000 years. The Buddhist religion is divided into two main branches: Theravada and Mahayana. The former is predominant in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, while the latter developed in East Asia. The image featured in this article is from Chiang Rai, Thailand, and serves as a reminder of the many Buddhist temples, monasteries, stupas, and pagodas found throughout the world. For those interested in exploring more Buddhist temples, monasteries, and other sacred sites, there is a comprehensive list available on Wikipedia, organized by location.
These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and teachings of Buddhism and provide a peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers.
