Michael LyonsWhile on our trip through Central Java, we visited the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Our hosts in nearby Salatiga joined us. It was a L-O-N-G walk to the top, but the view was stunning—definitely worth the climb.
We took a trolly train from the parking lot to the base, then walked to the top. On the way back, we had to walk through a narrow maze of vendors a ½ mile long. They were selling anything from hand carved teak to little plastic gizmos from China.
It was a great experience, even though this was a scheduled tour day for many young visitors from several different countries. Most were from Europe. It is a trip we’ll never forget—Thanks to our wonderful hosts.
From Wikipedia: Borobudur is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple, not far from the town of Muntilan, in Central Java, Indonesia. It is one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples. The temple consists of nine stacked platforms, six square and three circular, topped by a central dome. It is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The central dome is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues, each seated inside a perforated stupa.
I am amazed when I think about the human effort it took to build this temple. There was no crane, no power tools or trucks—just human ingenuity and coordination.
There is no one better to share these experiences with than this lady.
Tired on the top
According to mainstream Buddhism, the Umbrella or Parasol is a symbol of protection from illness, obstacles, harmful energies and suffering experienced in the three lower realms of existence. (thuchobiet.info)
Christina’s brother and family were fun hosts. Julius Boyke with son Yesaya (Isaiah), wife Rita, daughter Vanya (who I call Little Thunder), beautiful sister (Christina), and brother-in-law Brad Pit.
