مقدمة إلى معبد شويزيجون
The Shwezigon Pagoda, also known as Shwezigon Paya, stands as a significant Buddhist stupa located in Nyaung-U, ميانمار. Renowned as a prototype of Burmese stupas, it features a circular gold leaf-gilded stupa encircled by smaller temples and shrines. The construction of this iconic structure commenced in 1059 AD during the reign of King Anawrahta, the founder of the Pagan Empire, and was completed in 1102 AD under the supervision of his son, King Kyansittha.
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السياق التاريخي والبناء
The inception of the Shwezigon Pagoda dates back to the mid-11th century. King Anawrahta, who ruled from 1044 to 1077 AD, initiated the construction in 1059 AD. According to historical chronicles, the site for the pagoda was chosen in a unique manner; a white elephant carrying a relic of the Buddha was allowed to roam freely, and the location where the elephant stopped was selected for the construction. This site, a dune, led to the pagoda’s name, which translates to “golden pagoda on a dune.”
The construction was later taken over and completed by King Kyansittha in 1102 AD. The architectural design of the Shwezigon Pagoda was inspired by the pyramidal Mahabodhi Temple in بوده جايا, الهند, where Buddha attained enlightenment.
الميزات المعمارية
The Shwezigon Pagoda is distinguished by its bell-shaped stupa, which is a common architectural feature in Burmese religious structures. It consists of five square terraces with a central solid core, rising steeply to form a هرم تعلوها مظلات مزخرفة أو شاتري. الهيكل بأكمله مطلي بالذهب، وقد أضافت التجديدات الأخيرة أكثر من 30,000 لوحة نحاسية إلى مظهره الخارجي، على الرغم من احتفاظ المدرجات ذات المستوى الأدنى بشكلها الأصلي.
Inside, the pagoda houses several relics believed to be of Buddha, including a collar-bone and a tooth, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The outer limits of the pagoda feature shrines where 37 nats (spirits) are deified, along with a wooden sculpture of Thagyamin, a representation of the Indian god Indra.
الأهمية الثقافية والدينية
The Shwezigon Pagoda is not only an architectural marvel but also a central religious site for Buddhist devotees. It enshrines important Buddha relics and features intricate carvings and statues that depict various aspects of Buddha’s life and teachings. The pagoda’s terraces are adorned with glazed terra-cotta tiles illustrating Jataka tales, enhancing its religious and cultural significance.
الحفظ والترميم
على مر القرون، عانى معبد شويزيجون من الأضرار الناجمة عن العديد من الزلازل والكوارث الطبيعية الأخرى، مما استلزم عمليات ترميم متعددة. والجدير بالذكر أن الملك باينناونج أجرى عملية تجديد كبيرة في أواخر القرن السادس عشر. تشمل الجهود الأحدث للحفاظ على الباغودا تعزيز هيكلها وإضافة طلاء جديد للقبة في الثمانينيات والسنوات اللاحقة.
وفي الختام
The Shwezigon Pagoda remains a testament to the rich historical and cultural heritage of Myanmar. Its enduring beauty and spiritual significance continue to draw pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the ancient Buddhist traditions of the region. As efforts to preserve this ancient monument continue, the Shwezigon Pagoda stands as a symbol of the resilience and enduring faith of the Burmese people.
مصادر:
Neural Pathways عبارة عن مجموعة من الخبراء والباحثين المتمرسين الذين لديهم شغف عميق لكشف ألغاز التاريخ القديم والتحف. بفضل ثروة من الخبرة المجمعة الممتدة على مدى عقود، أثبتت شركة Neural Pathways نفسها كصوت رائد في مجال الاستكشاف والتفسير الأثري.