Gazing up at the Jinxian Princess Pagoda, have you ever wondered about its true origins? Many believe it was built for Princess Jinxian in 740. However, the inscriptions tell a different story. The pagoda, nestled on Stone Scripture Mountain at Yunju Temple, is a seven-storied square structure of white marble. Its base faces south, a testament to ancient geomantic principles. The Jinxian Princess Pagoda stands 3.5 meters tall, a beacon of history and devotion. The first story houses an open niche flanked by guardian figures, hinting at the treasures within. On the north wall, an inscription reads, “Stele Record of the Sutra(s) bestowed by Princess Jinxian in the Kaiyuan era of the Tang dynasty.” This inscription dates the record to 730. However, the west wall holds a crucial clue. An inscription dating back to 721 tells of individuals commemorating their parents and expressing gratitude for Buddhist blessings. This suggests the pagoda existed earlier than commonly thought. In fact, it may have been nine stories originally. The later inscription on the back wall speaks of Princess Jinxian donating scriptures in 736. It details the land granted to Yunju Temple for their upkeep, further solidifying the temple’s importance. This act of generosity likely led to the pagoda being named after her, even though the structure predates her donation. So, the Jinxian Princess Pagoda stands as a testament to not only the princess’s generosity but also to the earlier devotees who built this elegant structure. It whispers tales of filial piety, Buddhist devotion, and the enduring power of faith across centuries.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to