Temple Tour
Welcome to the Temple Tour
We invite you to explore this temple as a place of cultural heritage, spiritual reflection, and living tradition. This self-guided tour offers insights into the architecture, symbolism, and practices found throughout the grounds. Whether you are here to learn, to observe, or simply to experience the atmosphere, we hope this guide enriches your visit and deepens your understanding of the temple’s role in community life.
The main gate of Watt Buddhasāsanarangsey
This gate represents a spiritual threshold and holds deep symbolic, architectural, and cultural significance for the Khmer people.
Deeper Meaning in the Khmer Buddhist Context:
Spiritual Threshold
In Theravāda Buddhism, the main gate is more than an entrance—it symbolizes the path from the material world to the realm of spiritual practice, mindfulness, and merit-making.Walking through the gate is an act of purification, inviting individuals to enter with a clear mind and compassionate heart.
Symbolism
Khmer temple gates often feature mythical creatures like Nāgas (serpent beings), Apsaras, or devata, which protect the temple and guide the faithful.
They reflect cosmic harmony, karma, and the Buddhist path to enlightenment.]
Architectural Significance
The structure may echo elements of Angkorian-style temples, with intricate carvings, symmetrical design, and alignment with traditional Khmer aesthetics.
The gate’s height and ornamentation reflect reverence to the Buddha and a connection to ancestral craftsmanship.
Cultural Identity
It is a symbol of Khmer heritage in the diaspora, especially in temples like Watt Buddhasāsanarangsey, which serve as cultural hubs for Cambodian communities abroad.
Maitreya: Future Buddha
Maitreya is known as the Future Buddha —
the one who is prophesied to appear on Earth in the distant future to teach the pure Dharma after the teachings of Gautama Buddha.
In Sanskrit, “Maitreya” is derived from “maitrī”, meaning loving-kindness or benevolence. His very name reflects his destined mission — to reawaken the world through compassion, not conquest.out
Yaksha (យក្ស)
Yaksha are some of the most visually striking and symbolically rich guardians in Southeast Asian mythology and temple architecture. Let’s dive into who they are and how they appear in Khmer culture, along with their roots in wider South and Southeast Asian traditions
Yaksha are mythological beings found in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. In Khmer, they’re known as "យក្ស" (Yok). They are Originally nature spirits, connected to forests, mountains, and treasures hidden in the earth.
Sometimes malevolent, but often protective once tamed, especially in Buddhist contexts.
In Buddhist stories, Yakshas were once wild, but after listening to the Buddha’s teachings, many became guardians of the Dharma.
The Four Sublime States
The Four Sublime States, also known as the Brahmaviharas or Divine Abodes, are central teachings in Buddhism that guide practitioners toward cultivating profound virtues. These qualities—Loving-kindness (Metta), Compassion (Karuna), Sympathetic Joy (Mudita), and Equanimity (Upekkha)—are considered the highest forms of emotional development and are essential for personal transformation and harmonious relationships
1. Loving-kindness (Metta)
Metta is the sincere wish for the well-being, happiness, and safety of all beings, including oneself. It involves cultivating a boundless and unconditional love that transcends personal biases, boundaries, and preferences. Practitioners extend loving-kindness towards all beings, regardless of their relationship or behavior.
2. Compassion (Karuna)
Karuna is our empathetic response to the suffering of ourselves and others. It is the heartfelt desire to alleviate all suffering and the commitment to actively help all beings and support them in their difficulties. Compassion arises from recognizing the interconnectedness and shared vulnerability of all beings.
3. Sympathetic Joy (Mudita)
Mudita is the ability to take active delight in others' happiness and success. It is the opposite of jealousy or envy, fostering a sense of shared joy and appreciation for others' well-being. Mudita encourages practitioners to rejoice in the good fortune of others, leading to a more positive and connected community.
4. Equanimity (Upekkha)
Upekkha is the cultivation of a balanced and impartial mind, free from attachment, aversion, and delusion. It involves maintaining mental calmness and clarity in the face of life's ups and downs, treating all beings with fairness and without bias. Equanimity enables practitioners to respond to situations with wisdom and composure, promoting inner peace and resilience.
Practicing these four sublime states helps individuals develop a compassionate and balanced approach to life, fostering personal growth and contributing to a more harmonious society.
Almsgiving
In Buddhism, almsgiving—known as dāna in Pali—is a foundational practice that embodies generosity, compassion, and the cultivation of merit. The act of giving is not merely a charitable deed, but a spiritual discipline aimed at purifying the mind and fostering interconnectedness within the community.
The Buddha’s Teachings on Almsgiving
The Buddha emphasized almsgiving as a means to overcome negative emotions such as greed, anger, and delusion. In the Sūtra of the Upāsaka Precepts, he outlines four reasons for almsgiving:
To eradicate afflictions like stinginess and delusion.
To inspire vows and spiritual aspirations.
To bring peace and joy to oneself and others.
To attract abundant wealth and prosperity.
The Buddha taught that giving without greed is the essence of true almsgiving, emphasizing the importance of intention and mindfulness in the act of giving.
In Theravada Buddhist countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Laos, almsgiving remains a vital practice. Monks, who rely on the generosity of laypeople for sustenance, walk in procession early each morning with their alms bowls. Laypeople offer food, flowers, or incense, creating a spiritual bond between the two communities. This exchange is not viewed as charity but as a mutual relationship where monks provide spiritual guidance, and laypeople support the monastic community physically.
Broader Significance of Almsgiving
Almsgiving transcends material support; it encompasses giving one's time, skills, and knowledge. This holistic approach fosters a culture of generosity and compassion, benefiting both the giver and the receiver. The act of giving is believed to generate positive karma, leading to happiness and well-being for both parties.
Almsgiving and the Path to Enlightenment
Almsgiving is intricately connected to the Noble Eightfold Path, particularly in cultivating right intention, right action, and right livelihood. By practicing dāna, individuals purify their minds, reduce attachment, and develop virtues essential for spiritual progress. The act of giving fosters a sense of interconnectedness and community, which are vital on the path to enlightenment.
In summary, almsgiving in Buddhism is a profound practice that nurtures generosity, compassion, and spiritual growth. It is a reciprocal relationship that strengthens community bonds and supports the monastic community, ultimately guiding practitioners toward enlightenment.
Krom Ngoy (1865–1936)
K
rom Ngoy, born Ouk Ou, is celebrated as the "Father of Khmer Poetry" for his profound influence on Cambodian literature and culture. A poet, musician, and Buddhist scholar, he is best known for his mastery of chapei dong veng, a traditional form of sung poetry accompanied by a stringed instrument.
Jayavarman VII
Jayavarman VII (c. 1122–1218) was the most powerful and transformative king of the Khmer Empire
Jayavarman VII's reign was characterized by an extensive building program, reflecting his commitment to Buddhism and the welfare of his people. He constructed numerous temples Angkorian civilization included
Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, and Neak Pean
Festivals like Khmer New Year are marked by communal activities, including traditional games, music, and dances. In some villages, events like oxcart races are held to celebrate the end of the rice harvest, reviving ancient traditions and fostering community spirit
Sīmā Hall
In Buddhism, a Sīmā Hall (also spelled Simā or Sīmāghāra) refers to a designated boundary or space where formal acts of the Sangha (monastic community) can take place. The term "Sīmā" in Pali means boundary, and it has deep significance in the context of Vinaya, the monastic code.
Purpose of the Sīmā Hall
The Sīmā is not just a building but a ritually defined area, often encompassing a hall, within which important communal acts (known as saṅghakamma) can legally and validly be performed according to the Vinaya rules. These acts include:
Ordination of monks and nuns (Upasampadā)
Recitation of the Pātimokkha (disciplinary code, recited every two weeks)
Settling disputes or confessions
Making formal decisions regarding the Sangha
Features
The physical hall may look like a typical temple building but what makes it a Sīmā is the ritually established boundary, often marked by stone markers (called Sīmā stones) placed in the eight directions around the building.
The area inside this boundary is considered sacred and legally valid for monastic acts.
Sīmā boundaries are set following a formal procedure that must be witnessed by an existing, valid Sangha.
Importance
Without a properly established Sīmā, acts like ordination are considered invalid.
It ensures purity, harmony, and legality within the Sangha.
Types
There are different types of Sīmā, such as:
Village Sīmā (gāmasīmā): for monasteries near villages
Monastic Sīmā (ārāmasīmā): for monasteries in remote places
Boundary of water (udakasīmā): when defined by rivers or lakes
The Enlightenment of the Buddha—also known as the Great Awakening—is the central event in Buddhism. It marks the moment when Siddhartha Gautama became the Buddha, the Awakened One, by fully realizing the truth of existence and breaking free from the cycle of suffering (dukkha) and rebirth (samsāra).
Story of the Buddha’s Birth
Place: Lumbinī, in present-day Nepal
Mother: Queen Māyādevī
Legend says:
Siddhartha was born while his mother held a sal tree branch in the Lumbini garden.
He immediately took seven steps and declared:
"I am the chief in the world, this is my last birth."
Parinirvāṇa
The Nirvana of the Buddha—also known as the Parinirvāṇa (Pali: Parinibbāna)—marks the final passing away of the Buddha, when he left the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsāra) completely and entered ultimate liberation.
What is Nirvana?
Parinirvāṇa (Pali: Parinibbāna)—marks the final passing away of the Buddha
Nirvana (Nibbāna) is the extinction of all mental defilements like greed, hatred, and delusion. It’s the unconditioned state of peace and freedom from suffering. The Buddha attained Nirvana at age 35 under the Bodhi tree (spiritual awakening), but he continued to live in the world for 45 more years.
What is Parinirvana?
Parinirvana refers to the complete and final Nirvana attained at the death of an enlightened being (an Arahant or the Buddha).
Unlike the Nirvana experienced during life (which is freedom from suffering but still with a living body), Parinirvana is when the body ceases, and there’s no further rebirth.
The Last Teachings
· Before passing away, the Buddha gave some profound final teachings:
"All conditioned things are impermanent. Strive on with diligence."
(Pali: "Vayadhammā saṅkhārā — appamādena sampādetha.")
· These were his last words, urging monks and followers to practice mindfully and realize the truth for themselves.
The Mahā Bodhi Tree—or Great Bodhi Tree—is one of the most sacred sites in all of Buddhism. It marks the very place where Siddhartha Gautama attained Enlightenment and became the Buddha.
What is the Mahā Bodhi Tree?
A species of sacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa), also known as the Bodhi Tree, meaning "Tree of Awakening."
The term "Mahā Bodhi Tree" refers specifically to the original tree (or its direct descendants) located at Bodh Gaya, in Bihar, India.
Vasudhārā or Pṛthivī Mātā (Earth Mother)
In Buddhism, the "Mother of the Earth" is most commonly associated with a deity or symbolic figure known as Vasudhārā or Pṛthivī Mātā (Earth Mother). She's especially significant in Theravāda and some Mahayānatraditions, particularly in relation to the moment of the Buddha’s enlightenment.
Her Role in the Buddha’s Enlightenment
During the Buddha's final meditation under the Bodhi Tree:
Māra, the embodiment of illusion and temptation, tries to stop Siddhartha from attaining enlightenment.
Māra questions his right to sit on the seat of enlightenment and challenges him to prove his worth.
In response, Siddhartha touches the earth with his right hand in a gesture known as the bhūmisparśa mudrā(earth-touching gesture).
The Earth Goddess appears, bearing witness to his lifetimes of merit and "wrings out her hair," releasing torrents of water that wash away Māra and his armies.
This moment symbolizes the Earth bearing witness to truth, and purity overcoming illusion and defilement.
Symbolism of the Earth Mother
Truth and moral authority
Fertility, nurturing, and abundance
Witnessing karma and merit—she remembers the good deeds of all beings
In Southeast Asian art, especially in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, she is often shown:
Kneeling
Twisting her hair
Water pouring out to wash away Māra
Worship and Cultural Role
In Southeast Asia, Phra Mae Thorani is widely honored as a guardian deity.
She's invoked in house blessings, agricultural rites, and even seen on official seals and temple murals.
In some Mahāyāna traditions, Vasudhārā (a related goddess) is worshipped for prosperity and generosity.
first five disciples of the Buddha
The first five disciples of the Buddha were known as the Pañcavaggiya Bhikkhus (Pali: pañcavaggiyā bhikkhū)—the Group of Five Ascetics. They were present for the Buddha's first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, and became his earliest followers.
Who Were the First Five Disciples?
Kondañña (Aññāta Kondañña)
The first to realize the Dhamma and attain the Sotāpanna (stream-enterer) stage.
The Buddha declared: "Aññāsi vata bho Kondañño" — "Kondañña has understood!"
He later became the first Arahant and the first fully ordained monk (bhikkhu).
Bhaddiya
Vappa
Mahānāma
Assaji
These five were all former companions of Siddhartha Gautama during his six years of intense ascetic practices before enlightenment. They had initially left him when he abandoned extreme austerities, thinking he had given up the spiritual path.
Their Encounter After Enlightenment
After becoming the Buddha, Siddhartha sought out these five ascetics in Isipatana (Sarnath).
Despite their initial reluctance, they were struck by his serenity and wisdom.
He preached to them the Four Noble Truths and The Middle Way, forming the foundation of the Sangha (the monastic community).
Their Legacy
These five monks are seen as the first Sangha.
Their understanding and ordination marked the beginning of the Three Jewels (Tiratana):
The Buddha
The Dhamma (teaching)
The Sangha (monastic community)
Buddhaghosa
Buddhaghosa was one of the most influential scholars and commentators in the history of Theravāda Buddhism. He lived around the 5th century CEand is best known for systematizing and clarifying the Pāli Canon through detailed commentaries.
Who Was Buddhaghosa?
Name: Buddhaghosa means “Voice of the Buddha”
Era: 5th century CE
Birthplace: Likely India (possibly near Bodh Gaya)
Tradition: Theravāda Buddhism
Famous for: Writing the Visuddhimagga (The Path of Purification) and commentaries on the Pāli Canon
Background & Life
Buddhaghosa was born a brilliant scholar, trained in Vedic and Brahmanical philosophy, but later became drawn to Buddhism.
He traveled to Sri Lanka to study the ancient Sinhala commentaries preserved at the Mahāvihāra monastery in Anuradhapura.
The monks there tested him by asking him to write a treatise summarizing the essence of the Buddha’s teachings. He wrote the Visuddhimagga, which impressed them greatly.
His Masterwork: Visuddhimagga
Often considered the most important Theravāda manual on meditation and doctrine.
Structured around the idea of "purification" (visuddhi), it covers:
Sīla (morality)
Samādhi (concentration)
Paññā (wisdom)
It outlines detailed meditation techniques (e.g., kasina, mettā bhāvanā) and explains Abhidhamma concepts.
Other Works
Wrote detailed commentaries (Aṭṭhakathā) on nearly the entire Pāli Canon, including:
Dīgha Nikāya
Majjhima Nikāya
Saṃyutta Nikāya
Anguttara Nikāya
Vinaya Piṭaka
His work helped standardize Theravāda interpretations and spread them throughout Southeast Asia.
Legacy
Revered as the greatest Theravāda commentator.
His texts are still studied in monastic universities in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Sometimes criticized for leaning heavily on Abhidhamma and scholasticism, but his analytical clarity shaped Theravāda thought for centuries.
Samdech Choun Nath
Samdech Choun Nath (also spelled Samdach Choun Nath), an influential Cambodian Buddhist monk and scholar, played a pivotal role in the revival and preservation of Theravāda Buddhism in Cambodia, particularly in the 20th century. He is best known for his contributions to Buddhist education, the translation of key Buddhist texts, and his leadership in the Cambodian Sangha (Buddhist monastic community). Who Was Samdech Choun Nath?
Name: Samdech Choun Nath
Born: 1912 in Cambodia
Died: 1967
Position: Supreme Patriarch of Cambodian Buddhism
Tradition: Theravāda Buddhism
Early Life and Education
Samdech Choun Nath was born into a Buddhist family and showed a deep interest in the teachings of the Buddha from a young age.
He entered the monastic life early and studied under various renowned teachers in Cambodia, including learning Pāli (the language of the Theravāda canon).
He went on to study Buddhist philosophy, ethics, and monastic discipline. His education included both traditional Buddhist texts and modern studies.
Key Contributions
Restoration of Cambodian Buddhism
During the colonial period and in the aftermath of French colonial rule, Cambodian Buddhism faced challenges due to Western influences, political turmoil, and internal division.
Samdech Choun Nath was instrumental in reviving the Theravāda tradition in Cambodia, strengthening its presence and ensuring the preservation of its core practices and teachings.
Buddhist Text Translations
Samdech Choun Nath is especially remembered for his translation work, particularly in translating key Buddhist texts into the Khmer language, making them more accessible to the Cambodian population.
One of his most important contributions was translating and compiling Abhidhamma texts and important Pāli Suttas, which are fundamental to understanding the philosophical and ethical aspects of Theravāda Buddhism.
Education and Leadership
As the Supreme Patriarch of the Cambodian Sangha, he worked to standardize the training and education of monks in Cambodia, focusing on Buddhist ethics and discipline.
He was a reformer who sought to modernize the Buddhist monastic education system in Cambodia while still maintaining the integrity of traditional practices.
Supreme Patriarch
Samdech Choun Nath served as the head of the Cambodian Sangha from the 1940s until his death in 1967. As Supreme Patriarch, he worked to unite the different factions of the Cambodian monastic community and strengthen the position of Theravāda Buddhism in the country.
He was known for his wisdom and fair leadership, striving to maintain peace within the monastic community while ensuring the continuation of Buddhist teachings in Cambodia.
Legacy
Samdech Choun Nath's efforts in revitalizing Buddhism in Cambodia during the mid-20th century continue to have a lasting impact on the Cambodian Buddhist community.
His work in textual translation, especially of important Buddhist scriptures, has made a significant contribution to Cambodian Buddhist education.
Even today, many Cambodians revere him as one of the most respected spiritual leaders in the history of Cambodian Buddhism.
Buddha with a dragon or dragon canopy
The image of the Buddha with a dragon or dragon canopy is a common and meaningful depiction in Buddhist art, especially in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and parts of South Asia. The dragon often symbolizes powerful spiritual forces and is associated with protection and benevolent energy.
The Dragon in Buddhist Art
In many Buddhist depictions, especially in the story of the Buddha’s enlightenment, there is a dragon or serpent that appears in significant ways.
1. The Naga King Mucalinda:
One of the most well-known representations of the dragon in relation to the Buddha is the story of Mucalinda, the Naga King:
According to the Jataka tales and early Buddhist scriptures, Mucalinda was a serpent king (Naga) who protected the Buddha after his enlightenment.
After the Buddha achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, a fierce storm arose, with rain and wind threatening to disrupt his meditation.
Mucalinda, the serpent king, emerged from the earth and spread his body over the Buddha, creating a protective canopy to shield him from the rain.
In art, this moment is often depicted as the Buddha meditating with Mucalinda coiled around him, holding a canopy of seven-headed serpents over his head, symbolizing protection and spiritual awakening.
2. The Symbolism of the Dragon (Naga)
Nagas in Buddhist cosmology are often benevolent, associated with water, fertility, and spiritual guardianship. They also represent wisdom, protection, and the mystical forces of nature.
In Southeast Asian Buddhist art, dragons or serpents often appear as guardians, and the dragon canopy above the Buddha serves as a symbol of divine protection over the Buddha's wisdom and teachings.
Cultural Representation
In Chinese Buddhism, the dragon is often a symbol of imperial power and good fortune, and it frequently appears in art and architecture around Buddhist temples.
In Thai and Cambodian depictions, Nagas are also seen as protectors, with the Buddha often shown with Naga canopies or serpent figures providing shelter or guarding the sacred sites.
Artistic Depictions
The depiction of the Buddha with the dragon or Naga is particularly seen in sculptures, paintings, and murals. For example, the Mucalinda story is depicted in statues where the Buddha sits in meditation, with a serpent hoodabove his head.
Temples in Southeast Asia and Tibetan art may also show the Buddha surrounded by dragons or serpents as a symbol of protection and divine influence.
Meaning of the Dragon Canopy
Protection from harm: The dragon's canopy symbolizes a protective force, shielding the Buddha from physical and metaphysical obstacles.
Guardianship of the Dharma: The dragon can be seen as a guardian of the Buddha's teachings (Dharma), ensuring their safe preservation and transmission to future generations.
Symbol of wisdom and awakening: As the Naga King, Mucalinda’s intervention highlights the importance of wisdom, patience, and spiritual power in the Buddha’s quest for enlightenment.
Khmer astrology
In Cambodian culture, astrology—known as Khmer astrology—is a deeply rooted tradition that blends ancient beliefs, Buddhist teachings, and local customs. Unlike Western astrology, which often focuses on the date of birth, Khmer astrology places significant emphasis on the hour of birth, considering it a key determinant of an individual's destiny, personality, and health.
The 12 Animal Zodiac
Similar to the Chinese zodiac, the Khmer zodiac comprises 12 animal signs, each associated with specific traits and roles in society:
Rat (Jute) – Clever and adaptable, often involved in organizing harvest rituals.
Ox (Chlov) – Patient and determined, honored during construction ceremonies.
Tiger (Karl) – Courageous and trustworthy, central in community protection rites.
Rabbit (Thos) – Gentle and friendly, celebrated during family festivals.
Dragon (Rorng) – Powerful and revered during ceremonies symbolizing prosperity.
Snake (Masagn) – Mysterious and thoughtful, involved in purification rituals.
Horse (Momee) – Energetic and free, celebrated in dance and music festivities.
Goat (Mokay) – Symbol of peace and harmony, central in reconciliation ceremonies.
Monkey (Voke) – Intelligent and playful, adds fun to celebrations.
Rooster (Roka) – Vigilant and honest, honored during ceremonies of scholarship.
Dog (Jor) – Loyal and protective, involved in rituals celebrating friendship.
Pig (Koar) – Symbol of wealth and happiness, celebrated during New Year ceremonies.
For those interested in exploring Khmer astrology today, the Khmer Horoscopes app offers a comprehensive collection of over 80 types of horoscopes. It provides predictions based on various factors, including birthdate, time, characteristics, and even dreams. This app serves as a modern gateway to the rich traditions of Cambodian astrology.
Spiritual Symbolism in Buddhism
In both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism, the lion symbolizes strength, nobility, and leadership. In Theravada Buddhism, the lion represents a strong and noble meditator striving for meaningful experiences. In Mahayana Buddhism, the lion is a metaphor for strength and leadership, exemplified by the lion's role in ancient texts as a symbol of ideal qualities in a ruler
The phoenix is a legendary bird renowned across various cultures for its symbolism of rebirth, immortality, and resilience. Its mythological presence spans ancient civilizations, each attributing unique qualities and meanings to this mythical creature.
Symbolism and Cultural Impact
The phoenix's ability to rise from its ashes has made it a powerful symbol of hope, transformation, and resilience. In early Christianity, the phoenix was adopted as a symbol of Christ's resurrection and eternal life. The bird's cycle of death and rebirth was seen as an allegory for spiritual renewal and immortality.
In modern times, the phoenix continues to inspire literature, art, and popular culture, embodying themes of overcoming adversity and emerging stronger from challenges.
Support the Temple
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the temple grounds. If this experience has brought you insight, peace, or inspiration, we kindly invite you to support our ongoing efforts.
Your donation helps maintain the temple, support daily operations, and prepare for the upcoming Maha Visakha Puja on May 23–25, 2025.
Every offering, large or small, helps preserve this sacred space for generations to come.
Consider making a donation today.
