Learning English grammar doesn’t have to be disconnected from the world around us. In fact, some of the most powerful grammar lessons can emerge from the places we treasure most. One of Indonesia’s greatest treasures is undoubtedly Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist monument in the world.
Built in the 8th–9th century during the Syailendra Dynasty, Borobudur is a majestic stone mandala, reflecting deep philosophical meaning, spiritual teachings, and exceptional craftsmanship. Its structure—rising in layers from the earth to the sky—symbolizes the path from the human world to enlightenment.
By exploring Borobudur through language, students can connect grammar learning with culture, storytelling, and reflection.
Example (Present Simple + Passive Voice):
“Borobudur Temple is visited by millions of people every year and is admired for its spiritual and artistic beauty.”
This structure uses the present simple passive to describe facts about the temple’s current state and recognition.
Example (Past Perfect + Historical Context):
“By the time Borobudur was rediscovered in the 19th century, it had been buried under layers of volcanic ash for centuries.”
The combination of past perfect and past simple helps students understand and narrate timelines in historical events.
Example (Present Perfect + Symbolism):
“Borobudur has inspired generations of scholars, pilgrims, and travelers around the world.”
The present perfect tense is ideal to show the lasting impact of a historical site.
Example (Relative Clauses):
“The monument, which consists of over 2,600 relief panels and 500 Buddha statues, tells stories of moral and spiritual growth.”
Relative clauses allow for more detailed, flowing, and academic-style writing.
Example (Modal Verbs for Suggestion and Reflection):
“Learners should explore the stories carved on its walls, and they might discover that grammar can also carry wisdom.”
Modal verbs are used to express suggestions, possibilities, and advice, adding depth to descriptive and persuasive writing.
By learning grammar through Borobudur, students are not simply practicing tenses or structures—they are learning how to express values, history, and cultural identity in English. Grammar becomes more than a tool for correctness; it becomes a bridge between language and legacy.