Emerald Buddha TempleImage Credit Source: Getty Images

Emerald Buddha Temple, Bangkok: Wat Fra Kau Emerald Buddha Temple, located in Bangkok, is considered the most sacred and reputed Buddhist temple in Thailand. The temple is located in the Grand Palace complex of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Here the idol of Lord Buddha, made of a rare stone of green, sits, which is called Emerald Buddha. It is not just a temple, but a vibrant symbol of the history, religion and culture of Thailand. Let us know in detail about this holy site.

Buddha temple

Wat Fra Kau is located in the premises of the Grand Palace of Bangkok and is considered the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. Its main feature is the statue of a green Buddha, which is called 'Panna Buddha'. This idol is made of rare green stone not from Emerald (Panna), but a rare green stone called Jadite.

Who is worshiped?

Panna Buddha is mainly worshiped in this temple. This idol is a symbol of ultimate respect and reverence for the people of Thailand. It is considered to be the patron deity of the nation, which provides good luck and prosperity to the country and its people.

How is worship?

In front of the idol of Emerald Buddha, only incense, lamp and silent prayer are worshiped. No devotees can touch the idol. One of the most important rituals in the temple is the ceremony to change clothes. The king of Thailand himself changes Panna Buddha's clothes at the beginning of summer three times a year, early rainy season and at the beginning of winter). This ceremony is associated with the weather cycle of the country and it is considered to be good luck for the nation. The clothes worn by the king are different for each season. A diamond crown and gold embroidered cloth with gold and sapphire for summer, for a rainy season and for a winter. Devotees sit in peace and meditate inside the temple and pray.

How is this temple different?

This is the only temple in Thailand where no monk resides. It acts as a royal chapel and is mainly used for religious rituals by the king and royal family of Thailand. The statue of Panna Buddha is worshiped as the most sacred symbol of Thailand. A great mixture of Thai, Indian, Sri Lankan and Lao architecture styles is seen in the temple premises. It includes grand stupas, pavilions, huge sculptures and beautiful murals.

Who built the temple?

Wat Fra Kaao and Grand Palace were built by Ram I, the first king of the Chakri dynasty, in 1782. He made Bangkok the new capital of Thailand and took inspiration from the old Ayuthaya Empire and built this grand complex. The statue of Panna Buddha was also brought back from Laos during his reign. When Bangkok became the new capital and the Grand Palace was built, Raja Ram I first established Panna Buddha in 1784 in Wat Fra Kaao specially built within the Grand Palace. Since then it is sitting here and is an invaluable national treasure for Thailand.