Not surprisingly, the new temple has many green plants that symbolize both the ancient jungle through which Gautama walked and man’s friends in the realm of Flora, which gave birth to the sacred Bodhi.
A small garden is planted on the roof of this building, which once again emphasizes the monks’ respect for the blessed spirits of nature, who care for beautiful plants and people to the best of their abilities. From up here on the high terrace, you get a view of the kingdom of Sansara, Singapore today, and a sea of people furiously struggling to survive in the harsh underworld.
The new Wat Ananda Metyarama sanctuary even has a museum showing the stages of Buddhist worship in this part of the East. There are prayer rooms, meditation rooms and a large hall for ceremonies during major Buddhist festivals. And all that on more than 1,500 square meters.
Even the beautiful facade of this temple reminds us of the Buddha Tree. The randomly-spaced triangular windows are not the leaves of the Bodhi tree, as they are sometimes erroneously interpreted by some commentators on the Internet, but the openings between the sacred leaves through which the sunlight streams onto the heads of Buddhist seekers.
This whimsical combination of light and shadow on the walls of the sanctuary symbolises the eternal struggle between good and evil that takes place within the human soul. Where sunlight is a symbol of the spirit that brings knowledge and freedom.
Guest A beautiful country house, looking at the photos of such an unusual temple, can feel that Buddhism is still alive, that it has not had time to turn into an ossified cult preaching dead dogmas. Its philosophy is evolving, which is reflected, as an inevitable consequence, in a departure from the old architectural tradition.
The essence is more important than form, and an unconventional form can also be a sacred symbol, just as inspiring as an ancient one, is what the creators of this remarkable sanctuary say.
What are the key elements and principles of a minimalist style when designing a Buddhist temple?
When designing a Buddhist temple with a minimalist style, there are key elements and principles to consider. First, simplicity is crucial. The temple should have clean lines, devoid of unnecessary ornaments or intricate details. Secondly, space and openness are important. The design should incorporate ample space for meditation and reflection, providing a sense of calm and tranquility. Thirdly, natural materials such as wood, stone, or bamboo should be used to connect with the earth and create a harmonious environment. Additionally, a focus on natural light and the use of simple, muted colors help create a soothing atmosphere. Moreover, the temple should be designed in a way that respects the environment, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. Lastly, symbolism plays a significant role. The inclusion of elements such as lotus flowers, Bodhi trees, or the Dharma Wheel can enhance the spiritual experience. By combining these elements and principles, a minimalist design can create a space that promotes meditation, serenity, and a deep connection to Buddhist teachings.