Did you know that Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple has a history stretching back to 1949? It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Buddhism in the Philippines. This temple is not just a place of worship. It’s a story of faith, resilience and community.
Let’s step back in time. Qinghe, a lay sister born in Fujian, China, dedicated her life to Buddhism. In 1917, she arrived in Manila. Her mission was to propagate Buddhism. Qinghe brought with her a statue of Guanyin from Yinxiu Temple. She established a small shrine on Juan Luna Street.
As her devotees grew in number, Qinghe sought to establish a larger temple. In 1949, she acquired property in Caloocan. Construction was delayed due to a fire. Yet, by 1957, Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple was finally completed.
In 1962, Master Zili joined the temple. He enriched the temple with his teachings. Zili started the Taixu Lecture Hall. He also established the Tze Hang Free Clinic in 1991.
After Qinghe’s death in 1980, Zili became the abbot. He renovated the temple shrines in 1984. Today, nuns Fajing and Falian continue to manage the temple. They preserve its legacy after Zili’s death in 2010.
Walking through Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple, notice the layout. The ground floor houses shrines to Maitreya and Ksitigarbha. Ancestral altars stand on both sides. The Taixu Lecture Hall also serves as the dining hall.
Upstairs, you’ll find the shrine to the three Buddhas. The shrine to Guanyin is on the other end. There is also a sitting area, a library and offices. Living quarters are also located on the second floor.
Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple is known for its unique practices. Chanting services last only one hour. A short lecture follows before lunch. This tradition stems from Master Zili’s emphasis on Buddhist learning.
Interestingly, the temple once published a magazine called Cihang. It was discontinued in 1972. Starting in 1997, the temple published several works by Zili. These were for international distribution.
Even today, the Cihang charity clinic operates every Saturday. It continues the legacy of compassion. It also demonstrates Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple’s commitment to the community.
Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple faced legal challenges in its early years. A donation of land was questioned due to constitutional restrictions. The Supreme Court eventually affirmed the restrictions on land ownership by non-Filipinos.
As you leave Ung Siu Si Buddhist Temple reflect on its history. It is a beacon of Buddhist practice. It shows devotion in the heart of Caloocan. The temple has evolved over the years. It remains a place of learning, service and spiritual solace.