Founded in 1936 the Vihara Dewi Avalokitesvara stands proudly in Jakarta. Originally named Vihara Thian Su Tong it was established by a nun Kho Nio Lim Giok Tien. She received donations from devotees to build this place of worship. Devotees came to honor Dewi Kwan She Im Po Sat. The vihara also served as a residence for those seeking spiritual purification. They dedicated themselves to the Mahayana Buddhist teachings emphasizing the compassion of Dewi Kwan She Im Po Sat.
In 1966 the name changed to Vihara Avalokitesvara. It’s also known as Guan Yin Tang. This name remains to this day. Upon Kho Nio Lim Giok Tien’s passing in January 1982 she appointed Bhiksu Dutavira as the successor. This ensured the continuation of the vihara’s care and management. At that time few devotees attended. They only offered incense.
Under Bhiksu Dutavira’s leadership communal worship began. Buddhist teachings were introduced. Initially only seven devotees participated. However the number steadily grew. The growing congregation prompted renovations in 1983-1984. The Dharmasala was expanded to accommodate 150 people for communal worship.
A search for a statue of Dewi Kwan Im Po Sat was undertaken in 1983. The name Vihara Avalokitesvara required a statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. Bhiksu Dutavira embarked on a quest. He traveled to Singapore. There he found a statue of Dewi Kwan Im. The pose depicted her pouring water symbolizing life hope and happiness. It belonged to a monk and was priced at 48 million rupiah. This far exceeded the allocated funds of 18 million rupiah. The monk kindly agreed to let Bhiksu Dutavira take it. He performed a poa pwe a ritual of throwing two pieces of wood to seek permission. Devotees generously donated funds. The necessary amount was quickly raised even exceeding the needed sum.
The Vihara Avalokitesvara evolved. It became not only a place of worship but also a center for Buddhist studies. Various courses including Mandarin and English language computer skills and math were offered for free. Social activities included visits to nursing homes orphanages and assistance to the elderly. Scholarships and financial aid for orphans were provided.
Due to its growing activities and limited space the vihara underwent reconstruction starting May 31 2001. This aimed to provide better facilities and enhance Buddhist education. Construction proceeded in two phases. The rear section with 5 1/2 floors was completed first. Then the front section with 6 1/2 floors was built. It’s now a seven-story building. The reconstruction was officially completed and inaugurated by the Director General of Buddhist Affairs on July 23 2006.
The Vihara Dewi Avalokitesvara stands as a testament to faith perseverance and community spirit. It continues to serve its devotees as a sanctuary and a vibrant center for Buddhist life in Jakarta. It is a shining beacon of compassion and learning a true gem within the city.