Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara, Gampaha

An Examination of the Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara in Gampaha

The Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara, positioned in Gampaha, is a Buddhist temple whose historical significance and architectural features demand scholarly attention. This particular Vihara, which stands as a bastion of the religious heritage in Sri Lanka, has been a center of Buddhist education and worship for centuries. The aim of this blog post is to analyze the Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara’s history, main features, and its role in the local Buddhist community.

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Historical Context and Foundations

The Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara was established during the Anuradhapura period, specifically in the 5th century AD. The rich history of this temple is closely linked with that of the Kingdom of Kotte. According to inscriptions found onsite, the temple was endowed land by Wickramabahu III of Gampola (1357-1374 AD). Later, during the reign of King Parakramabahu VI in the 15th century AD, the temple received further support, illustrated by the construction of the new image house by Minister Devanagala Rathnalankara. This temple has also been associated with Ven. Welivita Saranankara Thero, a prominent monk who lived in the 18th century and played an instrumental role in reviving the Siam Nikaya, a major Buddhist monastic lineage in Sri Lanka.

Architectural Features and Religious Significance

The Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara features several structures of architectural and religious importance. A standing Buddha statue in the “Asisa Mudra” posture is a noteworthy element within the temple premises. The statue is believed to be from the Kotte period, adding layers to the temple’s historical narrative. Alongside this stands the temple’s image house, which contains murals dating back to the reign of Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe in the late 18th century. These murals depict scenes from the Jataka tales, narratives of the past lives of the Gautama Buddha, which play a crucial role in the visual transmission of Buddhist teachings.

Equally significant is the ‘Makara Thorana’, an ornately decorated arch that can be found at the entrance of the image house. This characteristic feature provides a rich tapestry of local motifs and iconography, which unveils the blending of artistic heritage within the context of Buddhist religious structures in Sri Lanka. Additionally, the temple boasts an ancient Bo tree, the sapling of which is believed to be linked to the sacred Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura under which Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.

The Vihara’s Social and Cultural Role

The Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara not only functions as a place of worship but also as a pillar in local education and culture. The temple operates a Dhamma school, which is instrumental in teaching and preserving Buddhist teachings and Sinhalese culture among the younger generations. As a result, the temple plays a prominent role in ensuring the continuity of local traditions and religious practices. The ongoing social functions of the Vihara thereby intertwine with its historical and religious significance, reinforcing its centrality in the life of the local Buddhist community. The importance of the Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara’s role in contemporary times cannot be understated as it continues to educate laypeople and serve as a venue for religious and cultural ceremonies.

In conclusion, the Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara in Gampaha serves as a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka. Its historical foundations showcase the influence of various kings and the support of prominent historical figures. The architecture and iconography within the temple complex stand as a visual archive of the island’s religious artistry. Lastly, the temple’s active engagement in educational and cultural practices underscores its ongoing relevance to the local community. Such a multifaceted institution warrants further study and recognition within the academic discourse on South Asian religious sites.

Sources: Wikipedia