Nara Todai-ji Temple: The Todai-ji temple is made entirely of wood and is 159.89 feet tall, 187.03 feet long, and 165.61 feet deep. It was built in the 8th century by Emperor Shomo but burned down twice. It was rebuilt in 1709 and is 2/3rds of the original size.
Purification by incense before going into the temple.
Walkway leading to Todai-ji temple.
The Octagon Lantern in front of the temple.
Nara's Vairocana statue popularly known as the Giant Buddha from the entryway of the Diabutsuden Hall.
Nara's giant Buddha (Daibutsu) is the largest brass Buddha in the world. It is 48.9 feet tall and can hold 14 smallish (this word is from the guidebook) people in his palm. He is sitting on a lotus petal that is 10 feet tall bringing the sculpture to almost 60 feet! He weighs 250 tons and was created by the Korean Kimimaro.
A close-up of his hand.
Kokuuzo-botsatsu - the attendant to the left of the Giant Buddha, symbolizes wisdom.
Nyoirin-kannon - the attendant to the right of the Giant Buddha, grants wishes.
In the rear of the temple is a hole the size of the Buddha's nostril. If you can slip through it you will pass through to paradise.
I will have to get to paradise the old fashion way!
No comments:
Post a Comment