Upon entering the iconic archway of Donghua Zen Temple, it feels as though you have instantly crossed over from the hustle and bustle of the world, stepping into a pure land filled with Zen tranquility.
As you pass through the archway, the distinctive Triple Gate Hall of Donghua Zen Temple comes into view. Donghua Zen Temple breaks with tradition by replacing the Heavenly Kings Hall with the Triple Gate Hall. In ancient times, access through the three doors was strictly regulated: the emperor entered through the central gate, while officials and attendants used the side ones. Donghua Zen Temple has adopted a new approach, keeping the central gate open daily, treating every visitor as an honored guest—a heartfelt sign of respect and an expression of the temple’s distinctive tradition. Among the three gates, the “Gate of Wisdom” symbolizes the opening of wisdom, while the “Gate of Liberation” represents liberation attained through practice.
Passing through the Triple Gate Hall, you can encounter the Temple Guardians (“Heng-Ha Generals”).Their fierce expressions represent the wrathful manifestations of Bodhisattvas, intended to help believers abandon distracting thoughts and purify their minds. The words “Entering Samadhi” on the door convey the meaning of “Unity between Humanity and Heaven,” blending the traditional Chinese cultural idea of harmony between humans and objects with the profound meditative states of Buddhism.
As you continue forward, you can hear the morning bells and evening drums coming from the Bell and Drum Tower. They ring punctually every day, symbolizing the pure life of the monks and serve as a reminder of time’s passage—prompting reflection.
On the way from the Sanmen Hall to the Main Buddha Hall, there are also the Hall of Sangharama Guardian and the Hall of Ksitigarbha. Garuda Bodhisattva is a guardian deity who willingly takes on the role of a servant to spread the spirit of selfless devotion. Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, although having attained Buddhahood long ago, vowed not to attain Buddhahood until all beings in hell are liberated, out of compassion for all beings. Their spirit inspires believers to practice compassion.
Donghua Zen Temple is imbued with profound culture and Buddhist wisdom. If you long for this tranquility, consider visiting in person to experience the morning bells and evening drums.(translator: Jiang Renfeng)