A Pre-occupation with Size
by John R.Ball, Australia, 7 Nov 2025
I am doing studies on revival of Buddhism in Indonesia and am perturbed by the emphasis on grandiose, ugly non-Indonesian architecture rather than dhamma among some Buddhists.
This is a preoccupation that unfortunately fill the minds of many east Asian migrants to Indonesia and shows a lack of understanding of the Buddha's teachings. My words may be strong but they are aimed at preserving the best of Indonesian Buddhist culture.
Similarly, in Australia, many huge, multi million dollar temples are erected to impress outsiders, but, in effect, repel them by their showiness.