“Have you ever wondered about the origins of this tranquil place?” I ask gesturing to the magnificent \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa before us.
Welcome to \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa. This serene temple stands as a testament to Shanghai’s rich history. It also shows the enduring power of faith. The story of \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa began long ago. It started in the Yuan Dynasty.
Back then, it was known as \u677e\u9690\u5eb5. A monk named Weimiao built it in 1352. Weimiao also went by the names Deran and Hes尚. This was a significant undertaking. The temple covers about 28 acres.
Let’s step back in time for a moment. Imagine Weimiao. He was born Zhang. At seven, he left home for Hangzhou’s Tianlong Temple. Later, he studied with Abbot Shiwu. Shiwu lived near a pine tree. The tree’s shade was dense. One day, Shiwu pointed to the pine. He told Weimiao he would benefit many people like the pine. Shiwu gave him the name \u677e\u9690. It means Pine Hermitage. Weimiao followed his teacher’s advice. He returned to Huating. He lived in solitude for three years. The locals respected him. Wu Shan donated land. People funded a temple for Weimiao. It was completed around 1357. Weimiao named it \u677e\u9690 after his monastic name.
Over the next 23 years, \u677e\u9690 grew. Halls and rooms were added. In 1380, Weimiao built the magnificent Huayan Pagoda. The pagoda enhanced the temple’s influence. Weimiao passed away in 1396.
In 1447, Abbot Daoming expanded the temple complex. Besides the Huayan Pagoda, he added new structures. These included the Hall of the Heavenly Kings. There was also the Grand Hall. Also the Guanyin Hall. Bell and Drum towers were built. Emperor Yingzong renamed it \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa.
During the “Cultural Revolution,” the temple suffered. It faced destruction. Fortunately, in 1991, the government approved its restoration. It reopened as a religious site. A new Grand Hall was built in 1996. Zhao Puchu inscribed the temple’s name. Since then, \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa has flourished.
In 2000, \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa underwent further expansion. A new bell and drum tower were dedicated in 2008. Today, \u677e\u9690\u7985\u5bfa stands as a symbol of resilience. It has grown over centuries. It is a place of peace and reflection. As you wander through its halls, remember its long history. Think of the monks who shaped its destiny.