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Dai Tong Lam Pagoda, also known as Van Phat Quang Dai Tong Lam Tu, is a large and modern temple. This temple is truly special as it holds 4 national records.
Dai Tong Lam Pagoda in Vung Tau – A unique temple with 4 national records
Dai Tong Lam Pagoda is situated in Quang Phu hamlet, Tan Thanh district, Ba Ria - Vung Tau province, and has achieved 4 records: the largest main hall; the heaviest and largest single-block statue of Di Lac Bodhisattva; the most statues of Buddha; the most monks and nuns. This has made the temple renowned and a cherished pilgrimage destination.
If you travel from Vung Tau city, it will take approximately 1 hour to reach Dai Tong Lam. Behind the solemn temple gate are three solid granite Di Lac Bodhisattva statues overlooking a lotus pond. Behind these statues lies a unique architectural ensemble that has endured for many years along the flow of time.
Dai Tong Lam Pagoda is a community of hundreds of temples, pagodas, and large and small tombs, intertwined with myriad green trees flourishing throughout the year. The temple's main hall spans 3,000 square meters. To reach the main hall, visitors must ascend 47 stone steps. The choice of 47 stone steps is symbolic of the divine, embodying strength to help individuals overcome all difficulties and challenges.
This also symbolizes the balance of yin and yang, providing individuals with inner strength to overcome challenges. In times of distress, peace will prevail. The main hall has the capacity to accommodate thousands of Buddhist monks and devotees simultaneously. Inside the main hall, there are over 6,000 golden-inlaid Buddha statues on wooden panels. Behind these panels are the names of each family or individuals dedicating spiritual offerings at the temple.
The second national record of Dai Tong Lam Pagoda is having the largest three solid granite Di Lac Bodhisattva statues, each weighing over 40 tons. These statues are considered the symbol of the temple and are placed behind the temple gate, facing the lotus pond. The three Di Lac Bodhisattva statues extend compassionate gestures to sentient beings, embracing the poor and supporting the unfortunate.
The third national record is having the highest number of Buddha statues, exceeding 10,000. Among these statues are 20 Arhats and 49 statues of Bodhisattva Quan Am seated between heaven and earth. Regardless of weather conditions, these statues always exude a sacred and solemn aura. Surrounding these statues are thousands of vibrant paper flower pots. This is also the outdoor worship space for thousands of Buddhists and monks.
The fourth national record is having the largest number of monks and nuns, totaling around 1,250 individuals. These individuals come to study Buddhist teachings from various provinces. After dedicated hours of scripture recitation and continuous learning, the monks and nuns also participate in agricultural activities, such as growing vegetables, rice, corn, and potatoes to sustain themselves like everyone else.
In addition to the 4 national records, Dai Tong Lam Pagoda is also recognized as the temple with the most shades of green. Dai Tong Lam is adorned with hundreds of green trees that provide shade throughout the year. These trees not only demonstrate robust vitality in all weather conditions but also serve as giant umbrellas shading visitors enjoying the temple's scenery.
According to Mytour
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourMarch 7, 2023
