As I am working in Singapore and Malaysia this week I thought I would go and visit the new Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in the heart of Chinatown Singapore (pictures below). Of the 420kg of solid gold it took to build this remarkable structure, 234kg was melted from donated gold jewelry pieces from locals, talk about hearts of gold, it is incredible to see. The building is amazing and inside is laden with gold statues, tiles and flooring. The seven story building will open on Vesak day which sadly I will miss, if you are in Singapore on the 31st May (check dates to confirm) you should pop down to see the opening; it will be quite an event. The whole project cost $59 million (Singapore dollar) of which $42 million was donated or sponsored.
The temple is built along the Sago lane area of Singapore which is where the death homes used to be. The poor Chinese immigrants used to go to die in these death homes as it was considered very unlucky for them to die in their own homes as it would give the remaining occupants bad luck. These very basic homes were very cramped in dormitory type rooms with little or no medical attention so you can imagine what it was like. As dismal as this all sounds they were guaranteed a good funeral which is thought to bring them good fortunes in the next live and these death homes whilst not a very nice place were extremely important to the Chinese community. Death homes were outlawed in 1961, not that long ago really.
On that somber note I am off to the famous Raffles Hotel to have my Singapore Sling cocktail, and they call this work. Zai Jian, Bai bai, Joi Geen (goodbye for now)
Photos taken on a very hot Friday 18th May 2007
Responses to “Hearts of gold in Singapore”
1. Irene Says: May 20th, 2007 at 8:15 am
Hi Michael, I wish i knew you were coming to Malaysia as i have always wanted you to come to our home and business to consult but never thought you would come this far. Where in Malaysia are u staying, is it KL? I have been using your feng shui software and found it invaluable but never replace a true Master such as you. Please let me know if you are able to fit me in within the next few days, I have sent an email also to your office.
Kindest regards
Irene
2. Clement Says:
May 20th, 2007 at 10:21 am
I am from Singapore and glad to see you visit. I too have seen the Temple, it is most amazing and looking forward to seeing it inside. I was in the same area as you the day after you, what a shame i miss you, i have followed your website for over 10 years now.
Clement
