Laos Trip 7: Vientiane - The Golden Pha That Luang

Laos is a Buddhist holy land, where the entire population believes in Theravada Buddhism, pursuing self-improvement and self-realization. This life goal matches the humanistic psychology advocated by humanistic psychology. Located in the capital city of Vientiane, Pha That Luang (meaning "Great Stupa" or "Royal Stupa" in Lao) is the most magnificent stupa in Laos and a symbol of the country. The main pattern of the national emblem is Pha That Luang, which is as important as the Forbidden City in China. The first thing you see when you enter the scenic area is the open square, where the seated statue of King Setthathirath, holding a long knife, is located. He was the greatest king in Lao history, who moved the capital of Laos from the ancient city to Vientiane and successfully resisted invaders. Although I have no religious beliefs, I was still attracted by the golden buildings in front of me and became very interested. I quickly searched for its history on Baidu. Pha That Luang was built in the 3rd century AD, and its fate is similar to that of Laos, having been destroyed and rebuilt many times. The Pha That Luang we see today was built in 1930 according to its original appearance. Not only is it beautifully, exquisitely, and finely shaped, but it also reflects the unique history and culture of Laos. I carefully appreciated the main stupa and 30 satellite stupas, experiencing their profound meaning, the combination of the material world and the spiritual world. What surprised me was that this is the core view of dialectical materialism philosophy! To the south of Pha That Luang is a place called That Luang Tai Temple, which is also worth a visit. The most eye-catching thing is the huge reclining Buddha. Here, I felt a solemn and dignified atmosphere. Like other Buddhist temples, there is a scripture library and a living and learning area for monks. The difference is that the surrounding walls have photos of deceased monks and their ashes buried. On the other side of Pha That Luang is the Buddhist Academy, and next to it is Wat Ong Teu, which I only looked at from the outside.