Yayasan Vihara Padi Lapa

Have you heard whispers of a deity who relocated at their own request? At Yayasan Vihara Padi Lapa, such tales intertwine with the scent of burning incense. Yayasan Vihara Padi Lapa sits on Jalan Penjagalan II. It’s nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Jakarta. Its ornate gate and distinct Chinese architectural style beckon you to explore its rich history. The main deity of Yayasan Vihara Padi Lapa originally resided in the old sanctuary. However, as the story goes, the deity itself expressed a desire to move. Now, the deity holds court in the front hall. This new sanctuary houses the main altar, draped in yellow and red. Here, Hok Tek Ceng Sin, the Earth God, resides in statue form. Before him, a table holds incense burners, filling the air with fragrant smoke. Some say the Earth God’s wife stands beside him, a silent partner in his divine duties. Below the altar, a tiger statue stands guard. It’s believed to assist the Earth God in warding off evil spirits and protecting the people from misfortune. The Earth God’s role is to safeguard the lives of the people. He ensures their safety, happiness, and reminds them to always choose the path of kindness. Two wooden statues of Dewi Kwan Im grace a second altar, each capturing a different aspect of the goddess. One depicts her standing, cradling a child, a beacon of hope for those yearning for children. The other portrays her serenely seated upon a lotus flower, a brass incense burner placed before her. A nearby glass cabinet houses a companion deity, believed to be one of the Eight Immortals. Through a door in the impluvium, you can access a side room. This space is dedicated to Dizangwang Posat (Tee Cong Ong Poo Sat). Yayasan Vihara Padi Lapa is more than just a temple. It’s a living testament to the beliefs and traditions of the community it serves.