We spent a quiet Chinese New Year Eve evening at Sri Lankaramaya, the oldest Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhist Temple in Singapore.
Instead of jostling with the crowds at Chinatown, this little enlightening excursion brought peace and reflection to an otherwise noisy night of fireworks and cheesy merriment.
Built in 1952, the sprawling temple grounds are spread right smack in the middle of the many condominiums at St Michael's. And with a Stupa, a Bodhi Tree, beautiful Buddha images and a Sima Hall, Sri Lankaramaya is considered a complete monastary under the Theravada tradition. Not unlike its Big Cousin, the famous Wat Phra Keow in Bangkok. Sri Lankaramaya also has its own Reclining Buddha, a 45ft behemoth that I suppose gives it a Wat Pho feel as well.
And as I stood there, gazing at the relaxing giant figurine, in the warm incandescent glow of the chandeliers and under the beautiful patchwork of ceiling motifs, I realized that perhaps a little
Dharma for myself is in order so that the photos become meaningful.
AmitabhaLabels: Places