Wat Rakhangkhositaram
Wat Rakhangkhositaram is a significant second-class royal monastery located in Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Originally known as Wat Bangwayai and dating back to the Ayutthaya period, it was restored and elevated to royal temple status by King Taksin. Its name was later changed to Wat Rakhangkhositaram due to the discovery of a melodious bell.
Key Facts
- ›The temple was originally built during the Ayutthaya period and was formerly called Wat Bangwayai.
- ›King Taksin restored the temple and appointed it a royal temple, sponsoring scripture revisions.
- ›King Rama I renamed the temple to Wat Rakhangkositaram after a significant bell was found and exchanged.
- ›Somdej Toh, a highly venerable monk, served as the abbot of Wat Rakhangkhositaram from 1852 to 1872.
- ›The temple is promoted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand as part of the 'Respect to the nine Temples' campaign.
- ›It features an old tripitaka hall containing beautiful and precious Thai paintings.
Important Relationships
- King Taksin
- King Rama I
- King Mongkut (Rama IV)
- Somdej Toh
- Tourism Authority of Thailand
Old Tripitaka Hall, Thai Paintings, Melodious Bell
- Built During the Ayutthaya Period
- Restored and Appointed Royal Temple By King Taksin
- Revision of the Tripitaka Scriptures Sponsored By King Taksin
- Discovery of A Melodious Bell During the Reign of King Rama I
- Name Changed To Wat Rakhangkositaram By King Rama I
- Proposed Name Change To Wat Rajkanthiyaram By King Mongkut Which Was Not Accepted By the Public
About Wat Rakhangkhositaram
Wat Rakhangkhositaram is a prominent second-class royal monastery situated in Bangkok, Thailand, on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its history traces back to the Ayutthaya period, when it was known as Wat Bangwayai. The temple holds significant historical and religious importance, particularly for its association with Thai royalty and esteemed monks.
Royal Patronage and Naming
The temple was restored and elevated to the status of a royal temple by King Taksin of the Thonburi Kingdom, who also patronized the revision of the tripitaka scriptures there. A pivotal moment in its history occurred during the reign of King Rama I, when a melodious bell was discovered within the temple grounds. This bell was subsequently moved to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and in exchange, five new bells were sent to Wat Rakhang. Consequently, the temple was renamed Wat Rakhangkositaram, a name derived from the Thai word for bell.
Notable Figures and Features
One of the most revered figures associated with Wat Rakhangkhositaram is the highly venerable monk Somdej Toh, who served as its abbot for two decades, from 1852 to 1872. The temple today features an old tripitaka hall, which is noted for housing beautiful and precious Thai paintings.
Significance and Promotion
Wat Rakhangkhositaram is recognized for its historical and cultural value, being part of the Tourism Authority of Thailand's 'Respect to the Nine Temples' campaign. This initiative highlights the temple as a key destination for both local and international visitors interested in Buddhist heritage and religious sites in Bangkok.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Wat Rakhangkhositaram?
Wat Rakhangkhositaram was built during the Ayutthaya period and was initially known as Wat Bangwayai. It was restored and made a royal temple by King Taksin. King Rama I later renamed it Wat Rakhangkositaram after a notable bell was discovered on the premises.
Why is the temple named Wat Rakhangkhositaram?
The temple's name, Wat Rakhangkositaram, originates from the discovery of a melodious bell (rakhang) within its compound during the reign of King Rama I. This bell was moved to Wat Phra Kaew, and the temple was renamed in its honor.
Who was Somdej Toh and what is his connection to Wat Rakhangkhositaram?
Somdej Toh was a highly venerable monk who served as the abbot of Wat Rakhangkhositaram. He was associated with the temple for an extended period, from 1852 to 1872.
What are some notable features of Wat Rakhangkhositaram?
The temple houses an old tripitaka hall, which is known for its beautiful and precious Thai paintings. The discovery of a melodious bell also played a significant role in its history and naming.
Is Wat Rakhangkhositaram a popular tourist destination?
Yes, Wat Rakhangkhositaram is promoted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand as one of the nine temples in the 'Respect to the Nine Temples' campaign, indicating its significance for visitors and pilgrims.
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