Almost one-third population of Singapore practices Buddhism making it the most popular religion in the country. Brought through various monks and missionaries, the religion slowly spread its roots in the country that has embraced it whole-heartedly. A large number of Buddhist Temples in Singapore along with monasteries and other Buddhist religious centers are an attestation to it. With their beautiful architecture and religious importance, these Buddhist temples have become a part of Singapore culture.

 

Here are some of the popular Buddhist temples in Singapore.

Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple

One of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Singapore, Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple is also known as the Temple of Thousand Lights owing to the thousand bulbs that light-up the Buddha statue. It was established in 1927 by Thai monks. Inside the temple, the main statue of Buddha is in a seating position that denotes his meditative state. There is also a smaller statue of Buddha in a reclining position that depicts the final stages of his life. Adorning the walls of the temples are frescoes that depict the tales of Buddha.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

The most impressive of Buddha temples in Singapore and the world is the Tooth Relic temple. Built-in the style of the Tang dynasty, the temple is quite famous for its beautiful architecture and events that are held throughout the year. The temple is known to house the Tooth relic that was discovered in Myanmar during the restoration of a stupa. Though developed recently, it is one of the most revered Buddhist temples in Singapore. Pilgrims, as well as tourists from around the world, visit the temple to pay homage to Lord Buddha.

 

Kong Men San Phor Kark See Monastery

Kong Men San Phor Kark See Monastery stands as the largest Buddhist Temple in Singapore. Depicting the grandeur of Buddhism in Singapore, the monastery premises comprise of Prayer halls, Stupas as well as a crematorium. It also houses the revered Bodhi Tree and has a Bronze Buddha Statue which is the largest in Asia. The beautiful architecture of the temple has predominant Chinese influence. The monastery is known for its Vesak Day celebrations that are held annually. 

Wat Ananda Metyaram Thai Buddhist Temple

Wat Ananda Metyaram Thai Buddhist Temple is the oldest Theravada Buddhist temple in Singapore. Constructed in the year 1925, the temple has undergone numerous renovations over the years. A recent addition to the temple is a beautifully constructed block that has a modernistic look. The unique contemporary look of the block is completely different from the traditional design. The temple hosts numerous events during the year that are coordinated by Wat Ananda Youth Organization (WAY).

Jin Long Si Temple

Truly representing Singapore, Jin Long Si Temple is dedicated to the unique Singaporean faith of “san-jiao”. Known as the three-religion faith, its beliefs are based on Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism with equal reverence to them. The temple preserves a 120-year-old Bodhi tree which was brought here by Minks from Sri Lanka in the 19th Century. The revered tree represents the holy Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment.

 

 

So, these were some of the most popular Buddhist Temples in Singapore. Besides, there are many more temples that spread the preachings of Buddha. These temples stand as a witness to the flourishing Buddhist culture in the country. Not only Buddhists but other citizens as well visit these temples and take part in the charitable events carried out by them.

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