Famen Temple
History
Famen Temple, located in Famen town, Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, China, is a Buddhist temple with a history spanning over 1,700 years. It is renowned for housing the relics of Sakyamuni Buddha, which were discovered in an underground palace beneath the temple's pagoda. The temple's origins trace back to the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD), with significant developments occurring during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
The temple was initially constructed during the reign of Emperor Huan of Han (147-167 AD) and was originally named the Ashoka Temple. It was later renamed Famen Temple during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 AD). The temple gained prominence during the Tang Dynasty when it became a significant pilgrimage site due to the presence of the Buddha's relics. Emperors of the Tang Dynasty, such as Emperor Taizong and Emperor Gaozong, were known to have visited the temple and made substantial contributions to its expansion and renovation.
Architectural Features
Famen Temple is an architectural marvel, featuring a blend of traditional Chinese and Buddhist architectural styles. The temple complex includes several key structures:
The Pagoda
The most iconic structure of Famen Temple is its pagoda, which has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries. The original pagoda, built during the Tang Dynasty, was a wooden structure that stood 13 stories high. It was later rebuilt in brick during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) after being damaged by an earthquake. The current pagoda, standing at 47 meters tall, was reconstructed in 1988 following the discovery of the underground palace.
The Underground Palace
Beneath the pagoda lies the underground palace, a hidden chamber that was discovered in 1987. This palace, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, is of immense archaeological and religious significance. It housed numerous relics, including the finger bone of Sakyamuni Buddha, gold and silver artifacts, and various Buddhist scriptures. The underground palace is a testament to the advanced architectural and engineering skills of the Tang Dynasty.
The Main Hall
The Main Hall of Famen Temple, also known as the Mahavira Hall, is the central structure where major religious ceremonies are conducted. It houses statues of the Buddha and various Bodhisattvas. The hall is adorned with intricate carvings and murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures and the life of Sakyamuni Buddha.
Religious Significance
Famen Temple holds a special place in Chinese Buddhism due to its association with the relics of Sakyamuni Buddha. The discovery of the Buddha's finger bone relic in the underground palace has made the temple a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. The relics are considered sacred and are believed to possess immense spiritual power. The temple hosts several annual religious festivals and ceremonies, attracting thousands of devotees.
Cultural Impact
Famen Temple has had a profound impact on Chinese culture and history. During the Tang Dynasty, it served as a center for Buddhist learning and pilgrimage. The temple's association with the imperial family and its role in housing the Buddha's relics elevated its status as a symbol of religious and political power. The artifacts discovered in the underground palace provide valuable insights into the art, culture, and religious practices of the Tang Dynasty.
Modern Developments
In recent years, Famen Temple has undergone extensive renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The Famen Temple Cultural Scenic Area, established in 2009, includes a new pagoda, museum, and various cultural and recreational facilities. The new pagoda, standing at 148 meters, is one of the tallest Buddhist pagodas in the world. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts discovered in the underground palace, offering visitors a glimpse into the temple's rich history and cultural heritage.