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Dung Pagoda - Past and Present
From Hanoi, travel along National Highway 1, passing through Phu Ly city and turning left at Tang town in Thanh Liem district. Along the way, you'll pass charming little villages; some nestled amidst lush green rice fields, others at the foot of hills, bathed in cool breezes and fresh green foliage. After about three kilometers, you'll finally arrive at Dung Pagoda, also known as Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu. The name sounds unusual, evoking images of distant, mysterious lands.
The Địa Tạng Phi Lai Tự pagoda was rebuilt precisely on the foundations of the ancient Đùng pagoda. The Đùng mountain range curves like a bow, embracing the pagoda. In the center, the pagoda appears majestic yet close to nature. This unique location gives the pagoda both privacy and a panoramic view of the lush green fields stretching out before it.
Dung Pagoda, also known by its new name, Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu
Accordingly, after fierce battles with the Champa army, many prisoners were brought here and contributed to the construction of this temple. This historical event created a unique mark in the temple's architecture, a place where Vietnamese tradition and Champa beauty intertwine.
In 2015, thanks to the concerted efforts of the local authorities and Buddhist followers, the ancient temple was restored on its original foundation. During the restoration process, many valuable artifacts with a distinct Cham style were unearthed, serving as vivid evidence of the temple's glorious history. Currently, these ancient artifacts are carefully preserved in the tea room.
The Địa Tạng Phi Lai Tự pagoda was rebuilt precisely on the foundation of the ancient Đùng pagoda.
An ancient temple hidden in Ha Nam
Having had the opportunity to visit Dia Tang Pagoda, Tuan Anh shared: "I've been to Dung Pagoda many times, usually during Tet (Lunar New Year), but because it's so crowded, if you want to enjoy the scenery or take photos, it's best to go on weekdays."
The Địa Tạng Pagoda has a very special feature: it is the only pagoda in Vietnam today that is not associated with any deity. The main purpose of the pagoda is to pray for peace for all beings, to relieve suffering and distress, and to demonstrate the boundless compassion of the Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha.
This is the only temple in Vietnam today that is not associated with deities.
The Buddhist temple is enveloped in an extraordinary tranquility. There is no billowing incense smoke, no elaborate offerings; everything is very simple. Visitors to the temple are asked to maintain solemnity, and photography, filming, or making noise are prohibited. Instead, everyone sits quietly, hands clasped, reciting Buddhist prayers. This simplicity creates a meditative atmosphere, allowing people to easily focus on their spiritual practice.
“If you go on a normal day, when there are no tourists, the atmosphere at Dung Pagoda is very quiet and peaceful, while on holidays it gets too crowded. I've visited many pagodas in many places, but the most impressive thing about Dung Pagoda is its unique architecture. For those visiting Dung Pagoda for the first time, you should choose a less crowded day to avoid the crowds during holidays. Also, remember to wear long pants, and the pagoda has a time limit for taking photos and prohibiting the use of drones,” Tuan Anh advised.
The space was enveloped in an unusual tranquility.
The Địa Tạng Pagoda is like a beautiful ink painting, "painted" by the hand of nature. Nestled in the embrace of the Đùng mountain range, leaning against a towering cliff, and facing a lush green pine forest, the pagoda is surrounded by babbling underground streams, creating a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. The harmony between ancient architecture and pristine nature creates a stunning picture, making one feel as if they have wandered into a heavenly paradise.
To the right of the temple, the hillside is utilized to create a cool, green space imbued with a meditative atmosphere. Flat areas are subtly designed, becoming small corners deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy. Each miniature landscape and statue contains profound messages about life and the harmony between humanity and nature. Carefully selected plants and flowers create a harmonious and peaceful scene, helping visitors find tranquility in their souls.
Địa Tạng Temple is like a beautiful ink painting.
The temple and the entire architectural complex exude a refined beauty, deeply rooted in Japanese style. The path leading to the temple is paved with light black stone slabs, just wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side. The simplicity and rusticity in every architectural detail seem to invite visitors to slow down.
The white stone courtyard symbolizes the "sea of suffering" in life, a place that tests each person's patience. Every step is a step towards overcoming difficulties and challenges in life. Walking slowly, steadily, knowing how to wait and yielding is the way to overcome suffering and find peace.
The white stone courtyard symbolizes the "sea of suffering" in human life.
