This is not an ancient temple. Actually the temple construction is not even complete yet it was started in 1981 and is likely to be completed by 2025. This is a temple as well as a museum of knowledge of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. The structure is being constructed on the basis of Ayutthaya kingdom’s theme; its architecture is inspired by the temples of Ayutthaya. The elements of Thai architecture are hand crafted from wood. The building design is unique, it is entirely out of wood and extensively carved. It contains only wooden carved idols and statues. Many types of wood are used for the structure, which give different texture at different places. Nail has not been used in the entire structure. It is said to be the highest wooden structure in the world. Style of the building and its location make the structure only one of its kind.
Lek Viriyaphan is the creator and originator of the concept of this temple. He died in 2000 at the age of 85. He was a lover of Oriental art, culture, religion and philosophy. Apart from being a successful businessman, his passion to preserve Thai culture has been demonstrated in many of his initiatives. Sanctuary of truth is one of those projects. The structure is being completed even after his death.
Statue of Brahma is at the rooftop, along with the idol of Bhagwan Ganesha. The Sanctuary of Truth has four entrances that lead to four halls. East is about family values of love and care. North hall depicts spiritual development, especially of China. The South is about the importance of planets.
In the Western hall are the statues of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh and the importance of Panchmahabhuta is depicted here. Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh – the Hindu trinity – are about the concept of the creator, preserver and destroyer of the universe.
Every surface of the temple is decorated with Thai, Hindu, Buddhist, Chinese and Khmer traditions and there seems to be so much similarity, the reasons are obvious, ‘the roots’.
Comments