Gazing at the Tam Quan Gate before us, you’ll notice a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This is the entrance to Hoang Phap Temple. The temple awaits us.
Hoang Phap Temple holds a special place in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a spiritual haven with a history spanning over half a century. Founded in 1957 by the Venerable Ngo Chan Tu, it began as a simple structure in a bud forest.
Imagine the scene in 1965. War raged and the Venerable sheltered sixty families here. He then established Duc Anh Institute in 1968. It cared for 365 children orphaned by the war. After 1975, the temple opened its doors to families facing hardship. Lonely elderly people also found refuge here.
In 1988, Venerable Ngo Chan Tu passed away. His disciple Thich Chan Tinh became the abbot. He continues to lead the temple to this day. The main hall was rebuilt in 1995. Then in 1999, Hoang Phap Pagoda began holding Buddhist retreats. Summer courses for students started in 2005. These continue regularly.
Take a look at the Tam Quan Gate. It’s the main entrance adorned with the words “Hoang Phap Pagoda”. The side gates bear the words “Wisdom” and “Compassion”. Couplets in Vietnamese grace the gate. Notice the red tiles. They gently curve on the two-story roof.
Let’s step inside. The Buddha Hall covers 756 square meters. Brick walls are decorated with mosaic tiles. The interior is painted white. Granite tiles cover the floor. Fierce lion figures guard the stairs. The front door has engravings of Vajrapani Bodhisattvas. Across from the hall stands a sculpture of Shakyamuni Buddha. He meditates under the Bodhi tree.
To the left of the Buddha Hall is Nhi Nghiem Tower. This is the final resting place of Ngo Chan Tu. Its cylindrical shape and dome-like cap are distinctive. Ceramic tiles surround the cap. The word “Van,” a Buddhist symbol of infinity tops the tower.
On the right of the hall, you can spot a rockery near a small pond. In the pond’s center stands a 5-meter Bodhisattva statue. Behind the rockery is Pho Do Tower. This is where the ashes of the deceased are stored. The lecture room behind the hall can accommodate 300 people.
Don’t miss the ashoka tree. Legend says Shakyamuni Buddha was born under such a tree. Many believe praying under it brings luck, peace, and wealth.
Consider attending a Buddhist retreat here at Hoang Phap Temple if you want to learn more about Buddhism. You will learn to worship, meditate, and pray. The monks will guide you in posture and doctrine.
Remember a few things when visiting. Dress modestly. Avoid loud noises. The temple is open from 5 am to 8:30 pm.
Hoang Phap Temple stands as a testament to compassion and wisdom. Its history of sheltering the displaced and teaching Buddhist principles has shaped it into a spiritual landmark. As we leave, may the peace of this place stay with you.