“A giant tree stands here” I overheard a local say. That’s how Chùa Cây Quế got its name. We are standing before a temple. But do you know the story behind Chùa Cây Quế?
Chùa Cây Quế is not just another temple. It is a place of worship with a rich history. Its story is intertwined with legends and national pride. Chùa Cây Quế is dedicated to Đức Thánh Linh Lang. Legend says Linh Lang was a prince. He lived during the Lý Dynasty.
Linh Lang was the son of King Lý Thái Tông. His mother was Lady Phương Nương. At birth he looked different. His body was covered in fish scales. The king believed he was a dragon in human form. So he named him Hoàng Lang.
When enemies threatened the country the king needed help. Hoàng Lang asked his mother for permission to fight. He defeated the invaders and became a hero. Upon his return he transformed into a dragon. He then plunged into West Lake.
King Lý Thái Tông honored him as the village’s guardian spirit. He gave him the title Linh Lang Đế Vương. Đức Thánh Linh Lang became a symbol of protection. He watched over the Red River Delta inhabitants. He became their protector in trade and life.
Chùa Cây Quế is more than a place to worship a prince. It also honors a hero. He fought against foreign invaders. He is a protector of people working on the rivers.
The temple’s origins are ancient. Chùa Cây Quế has undergone many renovations. It stands as an architectural marvel. Chùa Cây Quế meets the spiritual needs of the people. Mỹ Tân was once known as a heroic land during wartime. Chùa Cây Quế witnessed historical events. It significantly contributed to the struggle for national liberation. Yet many people remain unaware of its existence.
In 2013 a conference promoted this national treasure. The Research Center for Culture Preservation highlighted Chùa Cây Quế.
Inside Chùa Cây Quế stands a remarkable inscription. It dates back to 1919. It reads “Tây Hồ hiển thánh”. This translates to “West Lake reveals its sacredness”. The inscription emphasizes Hoàng Lang’s connection to West Lake.
An ancient couplet adorns the temple’s main hall. It honors Hoàng Lang’s dedication to the Lý Dynasty. It describes his transformation into a dragon. The couplet signifies his power over storms.
Today Chùa Cây Quế covers 4772.9 square meters. Its design follows the traditional “Tam” style. It includes the tiền đường, trung đường and cung cấm.
Despite restorations the temple retains its ancient charm. Wooden structures and historical artifacts remain. These include steles stone bells and couplets. Intricate carvings enhance the temple’s beauty.
The carvings depict sacred animals. Dragons coil around columns. These artistic elements reflect the Nguyễn Dynasty era. They enrich the temple’s architectural value.
Chùa Cây Quế received National Heritage status in 2013. Besides Đức Thánh Linh Lang it honors other deities. They include Bố Cái Đại Vương. He led a revolt against the Đường Dynasty in 781. The temple also venerates Bạch Hạc Đại Vương and Sơn Dược Đại Vương. These are local river and mountain gods.
Annually Chùa Cây Quế hosts vibrant festivals. A significant event is the ceremony on the 22nd day of the eighth lunar month. It features unique rituals like “Rước Nước”. A procession carries a bát nhang from the temple to Tân Đệ. They then sail to the intersection of the Red and Đào rivers. The village elder collects water. He pours it into a ch\u00f3e s\u1ee9. The procession returns to the temple for offerings.
The traditional festival at Chùa Cây Quế celebrates more than harvests. It also honors Linh Lang Đại Vương. It plays a crucial role in preserving cultural values.
Chùa Cây Quế is more than a historical site. It is a living testament to Vietnamese culture. It embodies the spirit and beliefs of its people. As you leave today remember the story. Remember the dragon prince. Remember the guardian of the rivers.