Angkor Wat and the Solar Calendar: A Reflection from Chor Nuon

Greetings, dear friends. As I sit here in San Francisco, thousands of miles from my homeland of Cambodia, my thoughts often turn to Angkor Wat, the temple that stands as a symbol of our cultural heritage and spiritual wisdom. I am Chor Nuon, an achar at Nagara Dhamma Temple, and today I wish to share with you a story about Angkor Wat and its connection to the solar calendar—a story that holds deep meaning for those of us who walk the path of mindfulness and spirituality.

Angkor Wat is more than just a temple; it is a testament to the Khmer people's deep understanding of the cosmos and our place within it. Constructed in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, this temple is perfectly aligned with the movements of the sun. Its architecture reflects the cycles of the solar calendar, symbolizing the eternal rhythm of life, death, and rebirth—a concept that is central to both Buddhist and Hindu teachings.

For those of you practicing yoga and meditation in San Francisco, this alignment may resonate with your own spiritual journey. Just as the temple is in harmony with the cosmos, so too can we strive for harmony within ourselves. The practice of yoga, much like the design of Angkor Wat, is about finding balance—balancing the body, mind, and spirit in alignment with the natural rhythms of the universe.

The central tower of Angkor Wat, representing Mount Meru, the mythological center of the universe, is where this alignment is most profound. During the equinoxes, the sun rises directly over this tower, casting a light that symbolizes the union of the earthly and the divine. It is a moment of perfect balance—of day and night, light and dark—a reminder of the cyclical nature of existence.

In our spiritual practice, whether through yoga, meditation, or prayer, we seek this same balance. The light of the sun over Angkor Wat is not just a physical phenomenon; it is a symbol of enlightenment, of the journey we all undertake to find inner peace and understanding. As we meditate on this image, we can draw inspiration to align ourselves with the universe, just as the temple aligns with the sun.

Here in San Francisco, a city rich with diversity and spiritual exploration, we can bring the ancient wisdom of Angkor Wat into our daily lives. As you practice yoga or engage in meditation, imagine the sun rising over the central tower of Angkor Wat. Let its light guide you toward balance, reminding you that just as the temple is connected to the cosmos, so too are we all connected—to each other, to the earth, and to the infinite universe.

My dear friends, the story of Angkor Wat and the solar calendar is a timeless reminder that we are all part of a greater cosmic order. Whether you are practicing on your yoga mat, meditating at sunrise, or simply reflecting on the interconnectedness of life, know that the teachings of Angkor Wat are with you. May this knowledge bring you peace and help you find harmony in all that you do.

In loving-kindness,

Chor Nuon