Do you hear the laughter echoing from within those walls? This is Bo De Pagoda, a place where faith meets compassion in the heart of Hanoi. Bo De Pagoda is not just a temple. It is also a sanctuary. It is a home for those who have nowhere else to go.
Originally, Bo De Pagoda was founded in 1874 by Master Thich Nguyen Bieu. It was a place for Buddhist worship and religious functions. Especially during the Lunar New Year. Over time, the pagoda’s role expanded. It embraced a new mission.
Imagine babies being left at the gate. Sadly, this happened more and more often. The monks and nuns responded with love. Bo De Pagoda established an orphanage. Nannies came to live and work there. They raised the children like in a childcare center.
Today, Bo De Pagoda houses approximately 50 children. Most are orphans. There are about 40 infants and 10 older pupils. Dedicated women, the nannies, care for them around the clock. Volunteers from around the world also lend a hand. They play a vital role in supporting the pagoda’s mission.
Since 2012, volunteers have been essential in running what is called the “kindergarten”. It is more of a child care facility because the children are very young, from six months to three years old. Volunteers become extra pairs of hands. Their enthusiasm brings joy to the children’s lives. They help with daily tasks. They create games and activities. They might teach basic English or math. Art, music, and sports are always popular.
Volunteers also model good behavior. This includes healthy eating and hygiene. Some children have disabilities. These children need extra attention and stimulation. The volunteers provide that care.
Let me share a story about Venerable Thich Nguyen Bieu. He was born into a Confucian family. He realized the world’s vanity early on. At 17, he sought enlightenment. In 1874, he returned to Bo De Pagoda. He built a monastic school. He propagated Buddhist teachings. He constructed the pagoda. He painted statues. He printed summaries of Buddhist texts. His contributions were immense. He is considered the first patriarch of Bo De Temple.
Bo De Pagoda stands as a testament to compassion. It embodies the Buddhist spirit of helping those in need. It welcomes all people. It offers solutions to their problems. The monks and nuns act with peace and respect.
Remember the name Thien Son Tu. That is another name for Bo De Pagoda. It means “Thien Son fairy self”. The pagoda is located near the Red River. This area has a rich history. It was once the headquarters of Le Loi. He fought against the Ming invaders.
Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and serenity of Bo De Pagoda. Think about the lives touched by this special place. The children nurtured, the volunteers who give their time and the monks and nuns who dedicate their lives to serving others. Bo De Pagoda is a beacon of hope. It is a symbol of the enduring power of compassion in Hanoi.