Reclining Buddha Bangkok – Thailand’s Rich Spiritual Heritage
When planning a trip to Thailand, the Reclining Buddha Bangkok frequently tops the list. Travelers from around the world—and locals alike—agree that this iconic temple is easily one of the Top 10 Must-See Destinations in Bangkok. Wat Pho’s stunning beauty and cultural importance make it super popular for every visitor.
Building Reclining Buddha Bangkok
Wat Pho, the full name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan. It is the main temple of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin era (the current era). Wat Pho actually has very old roots! We don’t find the exact records of the start date. Experts assume that this temple was built during the Ayutthaya period.
King Rama III planned to expand the area of Wat Pho. So, the king ordered the construction of the Reclining Buddha Hall. Workers first built the colossal reclining Buddha statue, and then they constructed the hall for cover.
The Reclining Buddha, in another word in Thai language, we call ‘Phra Phuttha Saiyat’. The material of this reclining Buddha image at Wat Pho, Bangkok is from bricks and plaster. Then the craftsmen cover the whole image with gold leaf.
108 Auspicious Symbols on The Soles
The soles of the reclining Buddha, both the left and right feet lie perfectly parallel and even. They are 1.5 meters wide and 5 meters long. The mother-of-pearl inlay on the feet is the most striking feature. The artists used the mother-of-pearl inlay technique to create the pictures that describe the 108 Auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. This blends beliefs from Jambudvipa (India) and China.
These 108 Auspicious patterns at the reclining Buddha’s soles are a development of the concept from various auspicious symbols.
- Symbols of luck and abundance such as Water Pot, Pair of Fish, Swastika, Jewel Garland and Lotus
- Things concerning the merit of the King such as throne, Royal State Umbrellas
- Elements of the realms of existence according to ‘Trailokya’ (Three Worlds), the cosmology of Buddhist belief such as Sumeru Mountain, Himmapan (Mythical Forest)
Because this is a collection of auspicious symbols, people believe that if anyone prays at the feet and wishes for blessings, they will find peace and happiness, receive good fortune, achieve success and have their wishes fulfilled in love
Reclining Buddha and Demon
The ‘Phra Phuttha Saiyat’ Posture, which we generally call the ‘Reclining’ Posture, also has another name that some people don’t know. The name is ‘The Posture of Subduing Asurintharahu’ with the demon’s name (sometimes the spelling is Asurindarahu). The name is from Asura and Rahu. Asura means demon. Rahu is the name of this demon.
What happened between Buddha and Asurintharahu?
The demon, Asurintharahu didn’t want to respect the Buddha because the Buddha was small. So, the Buddha lay down, but then he used magic to make his body huge. The Buddha looked much bigger and more powerful even while lying down.
This showed the demon that size does not matter.
The demon realized the Buddha’s true great power and became a follower.
We invite you to experience this spiritual and artistic marvel firsthand. Come and stand before the colossal Reclining Buddha in Bangkok, witness the magnificent mother-of-pearl inlay with 108 auspicious signs. Beyond this central image, explore the countless other treasures of Wat Pho and find your own moment of peace and happiness. Your visit promises a journey into the heart of Thai art, history, and profound Buddhist belief.