Borobudur temple is one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world. Is was built by Sailendra dynasty between 778 to 842 AD; 300 years before Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, and 400 years before work had begun on the great European cathedrals. Through research, Borobudur temple was built with an overwhelming mass of images and galleries on its walls depicting the activities of Gods. There are more than 1,400 narrative panels illustrating the life of Buddha and Buddhist texts, the largest and most complete collection of Buddhist relief in the world.
Borobudur temple has three level in its temple. The base of Borobudur, called Kamadhatu, it symbolize human being are still bound by their own desire. The upper four stories are called Rupadhatu which symbolizing human beings have set themselves free from their desire but are still bound to temptation. On this terrace, Buddha effigies are placed in open space; while the other upper three terraces where Buddha effigies are confined in domes with wholes are called Arupadhatu, which is symbolizing human beings that have been free from own desire and temptations. And the top part of it which is called Arupa, and it symbolizes nirvana, where Buddha is residing.
I find it related to the 'hero's journey' as for the 1st part, when one is facing the call of mission, it will still bound to some of their own desire and refuse to accept the call. Then it will continue by solving the problem, a guidance will appear and show ways to solve the problems. And the last step, after going through all the mission and understand the real world, one can choose to leave or stay.
Lim Xiao Fern
1002432
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