Resting peacefully before us lies the Reclining Buddha Statue. This is not just any statue. It is a symbol of serenity and a testament to Vietnamese artistry.
Let me tell you about one particular Reclining Buddha Statue at Hoi Khanh Pagoda. This pagoda is found in Thu Dau Mot City. It is in the Binh Duong Province. The pagoda’s history stretches back to 1741. Originally, it was a small leaf temple. Zen master Dai Ngan built it on a hill in Binh An village. Over time, it evolved into the pagoda we know today.
In 1860, French colonialists tragically burned down the pagoda. Undeterred, locals rebuilt it. They moved it to the foot of the hill, about 100 meters from its original location.
The most captivating feature of Hoi Khanh Pagoda is its massive Reclining Buddha Statue. This depicts Buddha Shakyamuni entering Nirvana. It stretches 52 meters long and stands 22 meters high. It weighs a staggering 600 tons. Imagine the sheer scale of it.
Beneath this giant Reclining Buddha Statue are 20 reliefs. These tell the story of the Buddha’s life. They depict his journey from birth to Parinirvana. Around the statue, 840 cement lotus petals add to its beauty. Each petal is carefully crafted.
In May 2013, the Asian Record Organization recognized this statue. It was named the longest Buddha statue on the roof of a temple in Asia. This is a remarkable achievement.
The pagoda also houses a set of Eighteen Arhats statues. These are the work of famous craftsmen from Thu Dau Mot. They were created in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their skill is evident in every detail.
Hoi Khanh Pagoda holds another treasure. It is linked to President Ho Chi Minh’s father. Nguyen Sinh Sac wrote a pair of parallel writings for the temple’s 6th abbot.
Venerable Thich Hue Thong recounts a story. In late 1923, Nguyen Sinh Sac was tracked by French agents. He moved from Gia Dinh to Thu Dau Mot. He joined others to found the Patriotic Honor Society. This group gathered many local patriots. Sadly, the French disbanded it in 1926.
During his time at the pagoda, Nguyen Sinh Sac presented a couplet. It was for Hoi Khanh Pagoda’s Venerable Tu Van. These handwritten couplets still hang in the worship grounds. They honor Nguyen Sinh Sac and President Ho Chi Minh.
Another notable Reclining Buddha Statue resides at Vinh Trang Pagoda. It is 32 meters long. It invites devotees and tourists to visit and offer their prayers.
As you stand before the Reclining Buddha Statue, take a moment. Reflect on its symbolism. Think about its history. Consider the artistry that brought it to life. It is a reminder of peace. It is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment. It is a true treasure of Vietnam.