Shwemokhtaw Pagoda
Shwemokhtaw Pagoda is a significant Buddhist religious structure located in Pathein, Myanmar. It is renowned for its historical origins, dating back to tradition as early as 305 BC, and its impressive height and rich adornments, including a gold-plated top tier. The pagoda is a focal point for religious festivals and veneration.
Key Facts
- ›Traditionally founded by King Asoka of India in 305 BC.
- ›Height has been increased by various rulers, reaching its current 153 feet (47 m).
- ›The top tier is adorned with 13.9 pounds (6.3 kg) of solid gold.
- ›Features tiers made of gold, silver, and bronze, embellished with numerous precious stones.
- ›Hosts a pagoda festival during the full moon of Kason (April/May), coinciding with Visakha.
- ›Houses a revered image of the Buddha, Thiho-shin Phondawpyi, in its southern pavilion.
Important Relationships
- King Asoka of India
- King Alaungsithu of Bagan
- Mon King Samodogossa
- Solid Gold Top Tier
- Silver and Bronze Tiers
- Adorned With Diamonds, Rubies, and Semiprecious Stones
- Thiho-Shin Phondawpyi Buddha Image
- Founding Traditionally Attributed To King Asoka In 305 Bc
- Height Increase By King Alaungsithu In 1115 Ad
- Height Increase By Mon King Samodogossa In 1263
- Annual Pagoda Festival During the Full Moon of Kason
About Shwemokhtaw Pagoda
Shwemokhtaw Pagoda, located in the city of Pathein in Myanmar, stands as a prominent Buddhist religious edifice with deep historical and traditional roots. Its origins are traditionally traced back to the 3rd century BC, when it is said to have been founded by Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Empire in India.
Throughout its long history, the pagoda has undergone significant transformations. Notable among these are the expansions and height increases attributed to local rulers. King Alaungsithu of the Bagan Kingdom is credited with raising the structure's height in 1115 AD, followed by the Mon King Samodogossa in 1263. These historical interventions have shaped the pagoda into its current impressive form.
Architectural Features and Adornments
The Shwemokhtaw Pagoda currently measures 153 feet (47 meters) in height. Its construction features distinct tiers: the uppermost tier is crafted from solid gold, weighing approximately 13.9 pounds (6.3 kg). The middle tier is made of pure silver, and the bottom tier is constructed from bronze. The pagoda is further adorned with a remarkable collection of precious materials, including an estimated 829 diamonds, 843 rubies, and 1588 semiprecious stones, contributing to its splendor and venerated status.
Religious Significance and Festivals
Within its southern pavilion, Shwemokhtaw Pagoda houses the Thiho-shin Phondawpyi Buddha image, an object of deep reverence for pilgrims and devotees. The site is a focal point for religious observances, most notably hosting an annual pagoda festival. This festival takes place during the full moon of Kason, which corresponds to April or May in the Gregorian calendar, a period that also marks the significant Buddhist commemoration of Visakha.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Shwemokhtaw Pagoda founded?
According to tradition, Shwemokhtaw Pagoda was founded by King Asoka of India in 305 BC. Historical accounts suggest significant renovations and height increases by various kings throughout subsequent centuries, including King Alaungsithu of Bagan and the Mon King Samodogossa.
What are the dimensions and adornments of Shwemokhtaw Pagoda?
The pagoda currently stands at a height of 153 feet (47 m). Its top tier is constructed from 13.9 pounds (6.3 kg) of solid gold, with the middle tier made of pure silver and the bottom tier of bronze. It is further embellished with approximately 829 diamonds, 843 rubies, and 1588 semiprecious stones.
What is the significance of the Kason festival at Shwemokhtaw Pagoda?
Shwemokhtaw Pagoda hosts a significant pagoda festival during the full moon of Kason, which falls in April/May. This festival marks Visakha, an important observance in the Buddhist calendar, drawing devotees and visitors.
What sacred image is housed at Shwemokhtaw Pagoda?
Within the southern pavilion of Shwemokhtaw Pagoda resides a highly revered image of the Buddha known as Thiho-shin Phondawpyi. This image is a focal point for worship and devotion at the site.
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