Architectural Philosophy in Thien Ie Kong Temple

Abstract

Thien Ie Kong Temple in Samarinda is a cultural heritage site that embodies the philosophical and spiritual values of the Chinese community. This study aims to explore the architectural philosophy applied in the temple's design, focusing on the implementation of traditional Chinese cosmological concepts such as Yin-Yang, the Five Elements (Wu Xing), and feng shui principles. The research methods include direct observation, architectural analysis, and a review of relevant literature. The findings reveal that the layout, orientation, and design elements of the temple are meticulously crafted to harmonize the relationship between humans, nature, and spiritual forces. The surrounding mountains and rivers symbolize the balance of Yin-Yang, while the choice of materials, colors, and decorative symbolism reflects the Five Elements cycle. Thien Ie Kong Temple serves not only as a place of worship but also as a philosophical representation of the harmonious relationship between humanity and the cosmos. This study highlights the importance of preserving temple architecture as part of the cultural and spiritual identity of the community.