Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh

Tucked away in the Xuân An neighborhood of Long Khánh town in Đồng Nai Province, the Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh beckons. It’s a place where the whispers of history intertwine with the vibrant tapestry of Buddhist tradition. The Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh’s story begins in 1964. A respected nun, Thích Nữ Tôn Liên, followed the guidance of her superior, Thích Nữ Thanh Liên, to establish this serene sanctuary. The land, a generous gift from Mrs. Lưu Ngọc Nữ of Rạch Giá, spanned an impressive 5,500 square meters. Originally intended for the Huỳnh Liên Monastery in 1963, it became the cradle of Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh. The main hall stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Khất sĩ tradition. Its octagonal shape symbolizes the Eightfold Path, guiding followers towards enlightenment. The walls, once simple and unadorned, now bear the marks of time and devotion. Over the years, the Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh has seen periods of both prosperity and hardship. In 1984, renovations were initiated under the leadership of Thích Nữ Chiếu Liên. However, due to limited resources, these repairs remained temporary. It wasn’t until 1991, with the winds of societal change blowing through Vietnam, that significant restoration could finally begin. With the blessings of both the religious authorities and the government, the Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh was reborn. Stepping through the triple gate, one is greeted by the main hall’s serene presence. Inside, a 13-tiered stupa, representing the stages of spiritual progress, commands attention. Surrounding the stupa are four large round pillars, each adorned with a golden lotus blossom. These represent the four Buddhist communities: monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen. Behind the stupa, a portrait of Đức Tổ sư Minh Đăng Quang, the founder of the Khất sĩ tradition in Vietnam, watches over the devotees. To the right of the main hall lies the former site of the Tam Vị Ni Trưởng, now a testament to the monastery’s history. Nearby, a Bodhi tree, a symbol of enlightenment, casts its shade over a statue of the Buddha. Tịnh xá Ngọc Khánh remains a vibrant hub of Buddhist activity. Regular meditation retreats, known as Bát Quan Trai, provide spiritual nourishment for the community. The monastery’s commitment to social good is also evident in its charitable activities, which include providing aid to those in need.