Temple and community
The relation and evolvement between religious architecture and the temple community in Bangkok during the Rattanakosin period (1782-now): Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun and Wat Pho
E.O. Arents (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
J.C. Edens – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / A)
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Abstract
This research explores the evolving relationship between temple architecture and the temple community during Thailand's Rattanakosin period. It reveals insights into the nation's ethos and cultural richness. Buddhism, central to Thai identity, shapes communal life in Thai temples, or Wats. Admit three key case studies—Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho—this study looks into the correlation between architecture, history, religion, society, and culture. Wat Phra Kaew, a royal chapel, represents royal patronage and spiritual symbolism as the prime example of the nation. Wat Arun, shaped by monarchs and community demands, features its iconic Phra Prang adorned with intricate porcelain. The Prang became a cultural beacon along the Chao Phraya River. Wat Pho, transformed by King Rama I, epitomizes artistic and spiritual devotion with its trapezoidal layout inspired by Buddhist cosmology, becoming a hub of education, medicine, and communal rituals. Wat Pho, symbolizes artistic and spiritual devotion through its trapezoidal layout inspired by Buddhist cosmology and overtime has evolved into a hub for education, medicine. The relationship between temple architecture and the temple community during the Rattanakosin period has evolved in different ways, with each influencing the other dynamically. The relationship developed into a stronger, more supportive, and increasingly significant bond, which remains a vital part of Thailand's cultural identity today, continuing to grow and evolve.