Religious Affairs Minister: Borobudur a Living Source of Spiritual Values

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has emphasised that Borobudur Temple is not only a world cultural heritage site but also a living spiritual heritage relevant to strengthening societal character and harmony.

“Borobudur is not merely a sturdy stone structure, but a ‘carved book’. Each relief invites us to reflect, look inward, and tread the path to wisdom,” said Nasaruddin at the Borobudur Workshop Roadshow Ahead of Vesak in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The Minister stated that Borobudur needs to be understood beyond its physical form, as a representation of humanity’s inner journey towards wisdom.

He stressed that the values embedded in Borobudur reflect universal teachings on self-control, wisdom, and life balance that remain relevant in facing contemporary dynamics.

“The theme Reinterpreting Borobudur is not just an academic study, but a call to revive noble values so they manifest in everyday life,” he said.

“Places of worship are spaces for inner encounters between humans and God. There, peace, wisdom, and self-awareness grow. Therefore, upholding ethics and respect for sacred spaces is a shared responsibility,” he added.

The Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque invited the public to use Borobudur as a source of inspiration in building the nation’s character. The values of wisdom, balance, and compassion reflected therein are deemed essential as a foundation for civilised and harmonious living.

“These values need to be continually enlivened to serve as guidelines in building an inclusive and peaceful life in society, nation, and state,” he stated.

In the context of preservation, the Minister emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration so that Borobudur is not only maintained physically but also kept alive in meaning.