Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda
Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda is a significant historical stupa situated in Yan Aung Myin Village, Lewe Township, Naypyidaw, Myanmar. Its origins are attributed to the era of King Ashoka, with later historical accounts detailing its patronage and renaming by King Thamoddarit, who experienced a miraculous healing and victory after praying at the site.
Key Facts
- ›Believed to have been established by counselors of King Ashoka between 268 and 232 BC.
- ›Renamed 'Yan Aung Myin Stupa' by King Thamoddarit after a miraculous healing and military victory.
- ›Also known as 'Lett-Hla Pagoda' due to the king's healed hand, later evolving to 'Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda'.
- ›Underwent modifications during the Bagan period under Kings Alaungsithu and Narapatisithu.
- ›Collapsed during the 1838 earthquake and was maintained by local villagers.
- ›Received new crowns (Htidaw) in 1868 and 1875 from various donors.
Important Relationships
- King Ashoka
- King Thamoddarit
- King Alaungsithu
- King Narapatisithu
- King Mingyi Nyo
- King Mindon
- King Tharrawaddy
Historical Stupa
- Establishment By King Ashoka's Counselors
- Renaming By King Thamoddarit After A Miraculous Healing and Victory
- Collapse During the 1838 Earthquake
About Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda
Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda is a significant historical stupa located in Yan Aung Myin Village, within Lewe Township of Naypyidaw, Myanmar. Its storied past suggests origins dating back to the 3rd century BC, with traditions linking its construction to the emissaries of the Indian emperor Ashoka, who were tasked with establishing numerous stupas to house relics of the Buddha across the region.
Historical Development and Naming
Later historical accounts attribute further development to King Thamoddarit, who reigned in AD 87. It is said that the king camped near the stupa after sustaining a severe injury during a conflict with a Phyu kingdom. Upon making a fervent wish at the stupa for his swift recovery and victory, his prayers were miraculously answered. In recognition of his healed arm and successful triumph, he renamed the pagoda 'Lett-Hla Pagoda,' meaning 'Beautiful hand' or 'good hand,' and consequently, the stupa became known as Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda. The village itself was also renamed from Naung-Pyin to Yan Aung Myin, signifying 'Victory against foe.'
Modifications and Resilience
The stupa has undergone notable modifications throughout its existence. During the Bagan period, it was enhanced under the reigns of King Alaungsithu and King Narapatisithu. King Mingyi Nyo of Taungoo was also a patron, frequently visiting and updating the structure, and even donating lands for excavation to the Sin-Own Lake. Despite its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, the pagoda suffered damage, collapsing during the major earthquake of 1838. Following this event, it was maintained by U Ar-Toke, the head of Lan-Pyinmana village.
Later Donations
The pagoda continued to receive veneration and support in later centuries. In 1868, during the reign of King Mindon, the 'Htidaw' (Crown Umbrella) was offered by the brother of the Mohnyin governor. Further, in 1875, a new crown was donated by 'Bodhigon Sayadaw.' These acts underscore the enduring religious importance of Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda within Myanmar's cultural landscape.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda built?
Historical records suggest the stupa was built by the counselors of King Ashoka during his reign, which spanned from 268 to 232 BC. This places its initial construction in the 3rd century BC.
What is the origin of the name Yan Aung Myin Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda?
The pagoda was originally called 'Naung-Pyin Stupa'. King Thamoddarit renamed it 'Yan Aung Myin Stupa' (meaning 'Victory against foe') after a miraculous victory and healing. It was further named 'Lett-Hla Pagoda' (meaning 'Beautiful hand' or 'good hand') by the same king, eventually becoming known as Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda.
Has the pagoda always been in its current state?
No, the stupa has undergone several modifications throughout its history. It was modified during the Bagan period and also collapsed during the 1838 earthquake, requiring subsequent maintenance and reconstruction.
Who were some notable individuals associated with the pagoda's maintenance?
The pagoda was modified under the reigns of Bagan Kings Alaungsithu and Narapatisithu. King Mingyi Nyo of Taungoo also frequently visited and updated the stupa. After the 1838 earthquake, it was maintained by the head of Lan-Pyinmana village, U Ar-Toke.
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