Qing Quan Temple
By: Daniel Otero
There’s that search, the spiritual connection which all human beings look for. Whether it’s in a synagogue, temple or center of worship.
China isn’t the exception, with the new wave of Buddhism flourishing once again. Temples haven’t become only places of prayer, they have become tourist sites for the masses; which is the burden that comes with development inside a spiritual place.
As I aimed to understand this one in Southern China. This one built in Guangdong Province, in the style of the Tin Hau Temple in Hong Kong or the Ah-ma in Macao. This one going far back as three centuries, was built in an isolated corner of the Province, along Hui-dong County.
The Qing Quan Temple adsorbed me, with its distinctive colour combinations, small-white tower and the regal yellow of old. From the distance, I could see it, as I trekked down this unknown path! While tourist buses came and went, to and fro.
This Temple from the Qing Dynasty combines 374 years of history in total. Giving recognition to this hidden gem and Buddhist Temple which few know about, but people whether close or far come to discover.
The Temple itself is sacred, but still under construction, mixing the old with the new.
The elements showcasing the respective Buddhas in there halls and pavilions across the hilly-landscape.
The walk from the main road was about 1,800 meters. I took it as a kind of pilgrimage for the senses.
Once there, there was the drum tower to the left and bell tower to the right. As the entrance was decorated with the 12 animals/Zodiac signs, the typical thing when visiting spiritual centers in China. These animals representing twelve years and repeating themselves every dozen years.
The symbolism came easy to understand like those in the concepts of Ying and Yang. The contradictions which unite us in and with nature: male-female, earth-sky, fire and water. Wonderful, isn’t it?
Monks came and went, basking in their chores.
I admired the sycamore trees and thought with their red ribbons gave what people came here for; which was to not only pray, but to have their union blessed with love.
People who come from outside of China may add, “What’s the big deal, just another temple!”
There’s something, a need to find calm and in harmony with society; therefore, here is the moment to earn it and meditate. Releasing one’s constant struggles with humanity by walking up hill to earn a place where to bow or kneel in peace!
Directions:
Qing Quan Temple is located in routes Y871 or X207, depending which way you’re going, whether it’s east or west. From the Country Garden Community here in Ya po jiao, Renshan Town, Hui-dong; it’s about traveling westward on bus 189. The transport takes about 10-minutes and for two yuan, it’s an easy ride to tranquility, a good walk and relaxation. Enjoy!
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