Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be in the presence of something truly monumental? Look around. You are standing in Viharn Phranorn, the chapel that houses the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. It’s one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand, stretching an impressive 46 meters long and 15 meters high. Wat Pho, officially called Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, was originally an old monastery from the Ayudhya period. King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, ordered the restoration of the temple and made it a royal monastery. The temple complex was later expanded and renovated by Rama III. Imagine skilled craftsmen working tirelessly for 16 years and 7 months to create this masterpiece. It was a labor of love, showcasing the finest Thai art and tradition.
The Reclining Buddha is more than just a statue. It represents the entry of Buddha into Nirvana, the final state of enlightenment, and the end of all reincarnations. The posture, called sihasaiyas, is reminiscent of a sleeping or reclining lion. Notice the Buddha’s right arm, supporting his head with tight curls resting on two box-pillows encrusted with glass mosaics. Look down at the 3-meter high, 4.5-meter long soles of the Buddha’s feet. They are inlaid with mother-of-pearl and divided into 108 arranged panels depicting auspicious symbols associated with Buddha, such as flowers, dancers, white elephants, tigers, and altar accessories. At the centre of each foot is a circle representing a chakra, or energy point. There are 108 bronze bowls in the corridor, representing the 108 auspicious characters of Buddha. Tradition says that dropping coins into these bowls brings good fortune. And don’t forget that your donation helps support the temple. While this reclining Buddha is not a pilgrimage destination, people come from all over to marvel at its grandeur and pay homage to the enlightened.
As you make your way out of Viharn Phranorn, be sure to take in the details surrounding you. The murals, the ornate carvings, the serene water features, and perhaps even the echo of chants as monks go about their daily rituals. All of these elements contribute to the atmosphere of reverence and tranquility that permeates Wat Pho. Viharn Phranorn and its reclining Buddha are a true testament to the devotion and artistic brilliance of the Thai people. They are a reminder that even in the bustling city of Bangkok, peace and spirituality can be found.