Explanatory Essay on a Temple in My Hometown

Essay Prompt: Describe a temple in your hometown

Exploring the charm of a hometown temple

1. Insight into a local gem: Tran Quoc Pagoda (Approved)

When one thinks of Hanoi's temples, Tran Quoc Pagoda is an inevitable mention—a historical treasure with deep roots in the region. Tran Quoc Pagoda stands proud as one of the oldest and most significant temples in Hanoi, a source of pride for the locals and Vietnamese people alike.

According to historical records, Tran Quoc Pagoda was originally named Khai Quoc Pagoda, established during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De in a village near the Red River. The pagoda was later relocated and built on the ancient grounds of Thuy Hoa Palace and Hanoi Nguyen Temple in 1615. With the support of King Minh Mang, King Thieu Tri, and contributions from the local community, the pagoda underwent renovations, saw the addition of iconic bells, and expanded its premises. In 1842, King Thieu Tri decided to rename the pagoda to Tran Bac Thanh. In the era of King Le Hy Tong, it was renamed Tran Quoc Pagoda, a name it retains to this day.

Situated along Thanh Nien Street, Yen Phu Ward, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda is perched on an island in the eastern part of Tay Ho, a vast freshwater lake.

At the top of the pagoda, two Nôm-script puzzles adorn the scene: 'Echoing the tradition as horses cross the road/ Unveiling the face of the mountain standing at the meditation door.' Additionally, three characters representing the Phuong Dien Gate are inscribed in the center.

The pagoda follows a structured design based on specific principles and sequences. It comprises three main structures with multiple layers, connected to form a square shape, including the Front Hall, Upper Sanctuary, and the Incense House. The Front Hall of Tran Quoc Pagoda faces west and is flanked by two long corridors on either side of the Upper Sanctuary and Incense House. A three-part bell tower stands along the central axis, located behind the Upper Sanctuary.

Inside Tran Quoc Pagoda, there are ancestral houses, memorial steles, and several ancient towers. The standout ancient tower within the pagoda's premises is the Precious Lotus Tower. Rising over 15 meters with 11 tiers, each tier features Buddha statues in arched windows. The summit of the tower, named Nine-Storey Lotus, is crafted from precious stones. Symmetrical to the Precious Tower is a large lotus pond, symbolizing the Buddha's pure nature, like being born in mud without defilement. The lotus represents supreme wisdom. All elements convey the essence and manifestations of Buddhist principles.

Tran Quoc Pagoda is not just an ancient temple with unique architecture but also a symbol of the long-standing culture of Hanoi residents in particular, and Vietnam in general. Moreover, the temple serves as a clear testament to the development of Buddhism in Vietnam.

The temple's architecture harmoniously blends solemnity and antiquity with the elegance and tranquility of the landscape. As a result, this place attracts numerous visitors, both domestic and international, especially devout Buddhists. Hopefully, in the future, the cultural aspects of the temple will be preserved and further developed.

>> Explore the detailed outline of the exposition HERE.

Exposition on Tran Quoc Pagoda
 

2. Exposition on a rural temple: One Pillar Pagoda (Standard)

The capital city, Hanoi, has long been renowned as the foremost cultural, economic, political, and military center of our country for a millennium. Historically championed by King Ly Cong Uan, the decision to relocate the capital from Dai La aimed to stabilize the nation after a tumultuous 1000 years. Consequently, this 'coiled dragon, seated tiger' land bears numerous invaluable historical traces, epitomizing the flourishing development of the country in various aspects. Notably, in the cultural sphere, the robust growth of Buddhism has given rise to several architecturally significant structures, with One Pillar Pagoda standing out as a prime example.

Also known as Mat Pagoda, One-Pillar Pagoda, Lotus Tower, Dien Huu Pagoda, it is one of the most uniquely designed architectural works in our country that has endured to this day (underwent significant restoration in 1955 after the French attack). Currently located on Chua Mot Cot Street, Doi Can Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, with the abbot being Venerable Thich Tam Kien. The construction of the pagoda commenced under the reign of King Ly Thai Tong around the winter of the Kie Suu year 1049, the first year of Sung Hung Dai Bao. The distinctive architecture of the pagoda is said to originate from a dream of King Ly Thai Tong, where he envisioned the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara guiding him up a lotus. Following the advice of the Zen master Thien Tue, the king built a pagoda resembling a lotus tower, erected on a large pillar in the middle of a lotus pond. Over the dynasties, One Pillar Pagoda underwent various renovations and upgrades but has maintained its original architecture and appearance since the Ly period. Today, it is recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Monument and holds the title of 'The Pagoda with the Most Unique Architecture' in the region by the Asian Record Organization.

Exposition on One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

The reason One Pillar Pagoda is deemed the most uniquely designed temple is due to its single-pillar architecture. According to historical records, this architectural style predates the Ly dynasty, appearing in certain Buddhist structures serving the meditation needs of royal dignitaries, becoming a distinctive traditional art form for Buddhism in Vietnam. The overall structure of the temple is constructed from wood, housing a statue of Avalokiteshvara for worship. Presently, the pagoda features a square Lotus Platform, each side measuring 3m, with a curved tiled roof. The roof corners are adorned with Xi Van motifs, and the roof itself displays a 'twin dragons framing the moon,' symbolizing divine power and reverence, embodying numerous cultural values, spiritual significance, wisdom, and aspirations of people in ancient traditional civilizations. The entire Lotus Platform is balanced on a stone pillar with a diameter of 1.2m, consisting of two large stones snugly stacked. From the supporting pillar, a system of wooden beams radiates in eight directions resembling a flower-shaped platform, providing support for the elevated structure. The overall architecture of One Pillar Pagoda, when viewed from a distance, resembles a large lotus blooming above the water's surface, exuding a pristine, lofty beauty, becoming an emblem for Buddhist teachings and Vietnamese culture. For generations, the lotus has been considered the national flower, embodying profound cultural values not only in spiritual practices but also deeply intertwined with our people's daily lives.

In terms of its contemporary significance, according to many Eastern philosophers, this unique architectural style symbolizes the harmonious fusion of two elements - Yin and Yang, where the square platform represents Yin, and the circular pillar symbolizes Yang, embodying the harmonious laws of nature - heaven and earth, Yin and Yang, the five elements, the cycles of birth and death for all beings. Simultaneously, the emergence of this structure also reflects the reverence and robust development of Buddhism in our country during the Ly dynasty. Today, One Pillar Pagoda stands as one of the most important and iconic symbols of Hanoi, attracting tens of thousands of tourists annually. It is a source of national pride, showcasing the glorious traces of our nation's history for thousands of years, a noble symbol representing the spirit of the Vietnamese people across generations.

If you ever have the chance to visit the capital, Hanoi, don't miss the opportunity to explore this historically and culturally rich national heritage. Come here to immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere of the 'thousand-year-old lotus,' continuously radiating the fragrance of purity and tranquility while preserving the ancient beauty and the creative genius of this ancient civilization.

>> Explore the detailed outline HERE.

3. Exposition on a Local Temple: Yen Tu Pagoda (Standard)

Quang Ninh, known as the 'Cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism,' is closely associated with Emperor Tran Nhan Tong. Mention Quang Ninh, and the renowned Yen Tu Pagoda comes to mind. Yen Tu Pagoda comprises a network of temples, hermitages, with ancient historical values linked to the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect. Often referred to as a celestial paradise, it stands out as one of the captivating spiritual tourist destinations for both domestic and international visitors.

Mount Yen Tu (Uong Bi - Quang Ninh) is a majestic and renowned mountain, often referred to as the 'First Peak of the Spiritual Realm' or the 'Buddhist Mountain' of our country. Yen Tu's spiritual history traces back to when King Tran Nhan Tong abdicated in favor of King Tran Anh Tong. In 1299, King Tran Nhan Tong arrived at Yen Tu, commencing a life of meditation following the 12 ascetic principles. He initiated the construction of a network of temples, hermitages, and towers, each with its unique legend. Yen Tu Landscape, with its peak standing at 1068m above sea level, is often shrouded in mist, adding to the natural beauty with diverse flora and fauna. Notable features include ancient trees like the 700-year-old pine and various wildlife such as large squirrels, red-faced monkeys, serows, and ground dragons. Surrounding the Yen Tu Pagoda complex are famous landmarks like the West Yen Tu Nature Reserve and the historical site of the Tran dynasty. Our journey to the summit of Yen Tu begins at the Giải Oan stream and the Giải Oan Pagoda, named by Emperor Tran Nhan Tong to help deliverance for concubines who tragically jumped into the stream due to the king's refusal to let them accompany him. Giải Oan Pagoda, nestled against the mountainside with a view of the rushing stream below, offers a breathtaking sight of Yen Tu's towering peak. Hoa Yen Pagoda is considered the main temple in the Yen Tu complex, situated on the mountain's slope, providing a sturdy and serene setting. The scenery here is incredibly beautiful, with a profusion of flowers seemingly forming a path leading to the temple's entrance. The pilgrimage route to the summit is lined with stone steps and green trees on both sides, featuring ancient 700-year-old pine trees with roots clinging deeply to the mountain wall, offering shade to Buddhist pilgrims. The central tower complex of Yen Tu is the Thap To, consisting of 64 towers and shrines. Additionally, there are hermitages like Ngự Dược and Thung, dedicated to researching, preparing, and producing herbal medicines from the Yen Tu mountain's various herbs. Particularly unique is the Một Mái Pagoda, hidden deep within a cave, revealing only half of its roof to the outside world. The tranquil and graceful scene of Một Mái Pagoda seems like an alternate world far from the mundane. Beyond the temple complexes, Yen Tu is also home to the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen Monastery – Vietnam's largest Zen monastery, boasting grand and dignified architecture. The highest temple in Yen Tu is the Bronze Pagoda, where Emperor Tran Nhan Tong chose to meditate. Its entire structure, including the worship items, is made of bronze to withstand the region's perpetual humidity. If you wish to avoid the challenging 6-kilometer trek to the summit, you can now take a cable car, a modern two-section system that goes from the mountain base to Hoa Yen Pagoda and then from Hoa Yen Pagoda to the Bronze Pagoda. Riding the cable car offers visitors a panoramic view of the Yen Tu mountain range. Bearing the significance of being the 'Cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism,' Yen Tu Pagoda is one of the selected Buddhist landmarks where delegates attend Vesak celebrations worldwide. The Yen Tu Festival takes place annually from the 10th day of the first lunar month to the end of March, attracting millions of international tourists for sightseeing, worship, and blessings.

Yen Tu Pagoda or the entire Yen Tu Buddhist complex is a source of pride for every Vietnamese. It serves as evidence of the profound cultural and spiritual beauty of our nation, providing a return to the roots, to the homeland of our Buddhist heritage.

>> Explore the detailed outline HERE.

Exposition on Yen Tu Pagoda
 

4. Exposition on a Local Temple: Perfume Pagoda (Standard)

I once heard a song that started with delightful, cheerful lyrics like this:

'Yesterday, I visited Perfume Pagoda,
Where flowers and grass still carried the morning dew.
With my teachers and parents, we contemplated in front of the mirror.'

I also came across a song lyric by Chu Manh Trinh that goes:

'The sky, the divine scenery,
Thuy Huong Mountain has long yearned for this.
See the mountains, the waters, the clouds,
Is this the first cave that was asked?'

Summing it up, both works talk about an extremely famous location commonly known as Perfume Pagoda. However, it's not just an individual temple but a cultural and religious complex called Huong Son with a history dating back several hundred years, since the reign of King Le-Trinh Lord. Perfume Pagoda carries not only picturesque and poetic beauty akin to a fairyland but also the tranquility and profound atmosphere of a meditation place. Stepping into Huong Son, it seems like travelers leave behind all worldly worries to immerse themselves in the serenity of the landscapes, temples, and the place renowned as the 'First Southern Cave.'

The cultural complex of Perfume Pagoda was constructed in the late 17th century, around 1680-1704. Its origin has many legends, and some wonder why there are two temples named Perfume Pagoda, one in Ha Tinh and one in Hanoi. Legend has it that in ancient times, the concubines and beauties of the local lord mostly resided in Thanh Nghe Tinh region. So, every spring, they would travel to Ha Tinh for the Perfume Pagoda festival, offering incense to worship Buddha. While this was a good thing, Lord Trinh had concerns about the concubines enduring a long journey and had other reasons, so he decided to build another Perfume Pagoda in Hanoi to make it more accessible. Today, this cultural complex is located in Huong Son commune, My Duc district, Hanoi, next to the Day River, and the central monument is the Perfume Pagoda situated in the Huong Tich cave, also known as Huong Tich Pagoda or Inner Pagoda.

In terms of architectural structure, the Huong Son complex is a gathering place for dozens of large temples dedicated to Buddha, various shrines for gods and saints, along with other worshiping halls. The unique feature of this heritage site is the combination of natural mountain landscapes, blue waters, drifting white clouds, natural caves, and ancient temple structures, creating a space that captures both the romantic and dreamy beauty and the transcendence of the Buddhist realm. Along the valley of Yen stream are notable architectural works of the Perfume Pagoda, including the Outer Pagoda, also known as Trò Pagoda or Thiên Trù Pagoda. Inside this temple is a bell tower with a unique three-tiered roof, and on the highest level, two triangle-shaped heads stand out. Chu Manh Trinh wrote a verse about this bell tower: 'A distant sound of the bell and chime to the sea. Travelers startle in their dreams.' The central point of the main heritage site is the Perfume Pagoda, also known as Inner Pagoda or Huong Tich Pagoda. Rather than being an artificial temple, it's actually a large cave. The cave wall bears an inscription by Lord Trinh Sam: 'The first Southern Cave under the sky,' expressing his admiration for the beauty of Huong Son. Besides these two main architectural parts, there are other notable structures summed up in the following two lines:

'Here's Giải Oan stream and Cửa Võng Pagoda,
Here's the Phat Tich hermitage and Tuyet Quynh Cave.'

In which, Giải Oan stream and Cửa Võng Pagoda are locations along the route from Thiên Trù Pagoda to Huong Tich Pagoda. Phat Tich hermitage is believed to be where Quan Thế m Bodhisattva achieved enlightenment, and Tuyet Quynh Cave or Tuyet Quynh Pagoda is a small temple near the Huong Tich cave.

Huong Pagoda Festival stands out as one of the largest festivals in Northern Vietnam, attracting millions of tourists and Buddhists from all corners of the country each year. The festival commences on the 6th day of the lunar calendar and concludes around mid-February, with the main events taking place from the 15th to the 18th day of the 2nd lunar month. In harmony with the serene atmosphere of the Buddhist sanctuary, the festival exhibits simplicity. The air is filled with thick blue smoke and the delicate fragrance of constantly burning incense during these festive days, enhancing the tranquil and elegant ambiance. Participants in the ceremony prepare minimal offerings—some incense, fruits, and vegetarian dishes placed on the altar. Lighting fragrant candles, they sincerely make offerings according to the practices of enlightened Buddhists before exploring the surrounding scenic beauty, purifying their souls, or joining the festivities. The festival activities, like the procession and literary rituals, are followed by gentle outdoor recreations such as boating, traditional singing, and poetic recitals. Both the ceremonial and festive aspects of the Huong Pagoda Festival lean towards sophistication and elegance, avoiding excess noise and preserving the sacred atmosphere. Every visitor experiences a rare joy—feelings of inner peace and the delight of encountering unique landscapes resembling a celestial paradise.

The Huong Pagoda site and its festival have deeply ingrained themselves in the consciousness and religious culture of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian worshippers in Vietnam. The exceptional beauty, achieved by the harmonious blend of natural landscapes and artificial architectural structures, has made this place an endless source of inspiration for ancient and contemporary writers and poets. In my writing, I referenced many verses from Chu Manh Trinh's poetic landscape of Huong Son, a literary masterpiece of medieval Vietnamese literature. Additionally, renowned poets like Ho Xuan Huong with the poem 'The Hương Tích Cave,' or Tan Da with the poem 'Playing in the Hương Tích Pagoda,' have also contributed to this rich literary tradition. In music, there's a famous song, 'Going to Huong Pagoda,' with a lively melody and folk influences, based on the lyrics by Nguyen Nhuoc Phap. This song was once widely broadcasted on the radio and is deeply ingrained in the hearts of older generations.

The scenery of Huong Pagoda arguably remains more beautiful and distinctive than anything poetry has depicted because only with one's eyes, ears, and a serene soul can one fully grasp the marvelous beauty—something that no pen can capture. If you have the opportunity to visit Hanoi, take a trip to the Huong Son heritage site to experience the romantic and poetic charm of the mountainous landscapes combined with the tranquility of the meditation sanctuary. In such moments, life may not get any more blissful.

The Best Thuyết minh về chùa Hương
 

5. Exposition on a Village Pagoda: Thien Mu Pagoda (Standard)

The solemn land of ancient Hue bears witness to the last feudal dynasty of our country, adorned with imperial tombs, citadels, and the refined music of the Hue royal court. When recalling the heyday of Buddhism in the central region, one often reminisces about Thien Mu Pagoda—a serene beauty along the poetic Perfume River.

Perched atop a hill (Ha Khe Hill) on the left bank of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is situated approximately 5km from the city center of Hue. According to legend, when Lord Nguyen Hoang traversed the banks of the Perfume River to survey the terrain for significant projects, he noticed Ha Khe Hill with its dragon-shaped land formation, facing backward. The Lord decided to construct a pagoda on the hill, overlooking the Perfume River, and named it 'Thien Mu'. In the Tân Sửu year of 1601, Thien Mu Pagoda was officially initiated under the reign of Lord Nguyen Hoang. During the period of 1691 - 1725, the pagoda underwent extensive construction and renovation, including magnificent architectural structures such as Dai Hung Palace, Thuyet Phap Hall, and Tang Kinh Pavilion. Unfortunately, many other structures from that era have not withstood the test of time.

Brief Overview of Thien Mu Pagoda

In this manner, every locality and region have temples intricately linked with the culture and spiritual life of the people. Here, we introduce to you 5 renowned temples in Vietnam. You can elaborate on the temple in your hometown or refer to and choose one of the mentioned temples to gather ideas and perfect your own article.

Expository writing holds significant importance in the writing curriculum for 8th, 9th, and 10th-grade students. On the other hand, the topics and content of expository writing are quite diverse. Alongside an exposition on a local temple, you can also explore: Exposition on a traditional folk game, Exposition on a traditional ethnic festival, Exposition on a particular dish, Exposition on a local specialty at Mytour. Wishing you all the best in your studies and aiming for high scores in your expository writing.