Caught Between The Past and Present: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Thailand is a country caught between the modern and ancient times. And even in this day and age, their culture is grounded on rich culture and history, with reverence to their traditions and religions.

 This is evident in their cityscape. This is reflected on their communities as well as the the iconic temples reflecting their glorious past. One such temple, is Wat Phra Kaew (the full official name being Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram; it is translated as Temple of the Emerald Buddha).

 Located in the heart of the capital, you can bank on Bangkok in keeping true to its veneration of Buddhism, one of its major religions. Known to be the most sacred temple (wat in the local term) in the land, Wat Phra Kaew houses the relic of the Emerald Buddha, a statue carved of pure dark green stone, which serves as a symbol of prosperity, protection, security, and source of blessings to the Thai society.  

The temple is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace in Phra Nakhon District, which covers an area of almost 235 acres, with over 100 buildings in its diverse and revered complex. With intricate details on its architecture in each corner, wall, mural, pillar, and roof, the style stood out as one would only connect with nowhere else than that of Old Bangkok. 

The main building where the relic of the Emerald Buddha rests is called the central ubosot (or ordination hall). Towering giant statues called Yaksa Tavarnbal can be found ‘guarding’ the entrance of the temple (which is why they are also called the Gate-Keeping Giants), with the Palace Library and Pagodas littering and surrounding it.

 Eight prangs, or towers of different colors, are found on the eastern side of the temple and are said to be the representation of Buddhism’s known elements, which are eight in total. The art in the murals are heavily influenced by literary and historical works, from Indian to national epics like the Ramayana and Ramakian.

  Rituals and ceremonies are of utmost importance in the temple. Even the monarch of the country is made to ceremonially change the robes of the Emerald Buddha thrice a year, signifying the seasons of the country (rain, summer, winter) and hoping to bring in good tidings of fortune in every season. Ceremonies commemorating the ruling monarch dynasty are observed, paying homage to the current as well as past rulers that were reinstated, seeing as they have a major role in keeping the religious roles for the temple.  

There is a set of rules that are to be followed strictly in entering the temple. There is a dress close in place and shoes should not be worn within the premises. There are even rules regarding the sitting position in offering prayers to Buddha. Each connotes and demands respect for the traditions and beliefs that stood the test of time, all of which is still practiced by the Thai community. 

 The Temple of the Emerald Buddha opens its doors to devotees and curious souls alike from 8 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon. You may opt to have guides give you a tour to the temple. Just keep in mind the rules of conduct before entering the temple. 

How To Get To Wat Phra Kaew 

From the Bangkok Airport (full name Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport), there are few ways to get to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. 

If you are taking the train, you may alight from the Airport Express to Phetchaburi, and then walk to Hua Lamphong to the local Marine Department to ride a ferry to Tha Chang. From there, it would take more or less a 10 minute walk to get to the temple.

 You can also opt to take a taxi or a private vehicle which would get you by land to the Phra Nakhon District where the temple is found in about half an hour. 

 In light of the modern times, keeping the traditions alive is a way for us to preserve culture. Also, it puts us in an enlightening perspective that life is more than just progress and moving forward; but remembering where we came from, and keeping to one’s beliefs. The Wat Phra Kaew is one such manifestation of tradition.