Mount Meru

Definition

Mount Meru is a sacred mountain in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cosmology, symbolizing the center of the universe and the axis mundi. It is often depicted as a cosmic mountain surrounded by various realms and represents spiritual ascent, enlightenment, and the connection between the earthly and divine realms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Buddhist art, Mount Meru is often depicted at the center of mandalas, serving as a symbol of cosmic order and spiritual awakening.
2. Borobudur, an ancient Buddhist temple in Indonesia, is designed to represent Mount Meru with its layered structure symbolizing different realms of existence.
3. Mount Meru is believed to be surrounded by four continents in Buddhist cosmology, each representing different states of existence and types of beings.
4. In Hindu mythology, it is said that Mount Meru is the abode of gods and the site of many important mythological events, including the churning of the ocean of milk.
5. The concept of Mount Meru influences temple architecture across Southeast Asia, where temples are constructed to reflect its sacred geometry and significance.

Review Questions

• How does Mount Meru function as a symbolic representation in Buddhist cosmology and its relation to Borobudur?
  • Mount Meru serves as a vital symbol in Buddhist cosmology, representing the center of the universe and spiritual ascent. In Borobudur, this idea is reflected through its architectural design, which is structured in layers that symbolize different realms leading to enlightenment. Each level corresponds to various stages of spiritual awakening, ultimately culminating at the top where one can reach a state similar to that which Mount Meru embodies.
• Analyze how the representation of Mount Meru influences architectural practices in Southeast Asia, particularly in temple design.
  • The representation of Mount Meru significantly impacts architectural practices in Southeast Asia by serving as a model for temple design. Temples are often constructed with layered structures that mimic the mountain's form, symbolizing the ascent toward spiritual enlightenment. This approach not only reflects religious beliefs but also demonstrates how local cultures incorporate cosmological elements into their sacred spaces, creating a physical manifestation of their spiritual worldview.
• Evaluate the role of Mount Meru in connecting various religious traditions like Hinduism and Buddhism within Southeast Asian cultures.
  • Mount Meru plays a pivotal role in bridging Hinduism and Buddhism within Southeast Asian cultures by acting as a shared cosmological symbol. Both traditions view it as the center of the universe, representing divine presence and spiritual aspiration. This commonality facilitates cultural exchange and influences artistic expression across regions, fostering a sense of unity among diverse religious practices while still allowing for unique interpretations within each tradition.

Related terms

Cosmology:

The study of the origins and eventual fate of the universe, often incorporating religious or philosophical interpretations.

Buddhism:

A spiritual tradition that encompasses a variety of beliefs and practices largely based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha.

Axis Mundi: A term used in various cultures to denote a central axis or cosmic pole connecting heaven and earth, often represented by mountains or trees.