Nepal - Swayambhu (17 images)

Swayambhu (also called monkey temple) or Swayambhunath is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, especially for tantric Buddhism
The white stupa / dome symbolizes the womb of creation. This place is worshipped by many different groups like Hindus of local Newar tradition with their unique combination of Hinduism and Buddhism and Buddhist monks of different schools. In Tantra there is a lot of magic and animistic roots. A prayer at this place is supposed to give 13 billion...
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Swayambhu (also called monkey temple) or Swayambhunath is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, especially for tantric Buddhism
The white stupa / dome symbolizes the womb of creation. This place is worshipped by many different groups like Hindus of local Newar tradition with their unique combination of Hinduism and Buddhism and Buddhist monks of different schools. In Tantra there is a lot of magic and animistic roots. A prayer at this place is supposed to give 13 billion times more relief than a prayer in any other place.
The eyes painted on the golden top are Buddhas eyes called Adi-Buddha, together with urna, a spiral form symbolizing light. Thirteen rings on top symbolize thirteen steps of enlightment. At the entrance area is a huge scepter-like, golden Vajra, a typical symbol of Tantra Buddhism.
The place is called monkey temple, since many wild monkey live here. On the temple area is a variety of shrines and temples and a Tibetan monastery.
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