Buzz
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Hanoi, one can easily discover Ha Pagoda, peacefully situated on a quiet lane in Cau Giay district. Ha Pagoda stands out as one of the most beautiful temple complexes, attracting numerous Buddhist followers and tourists, especially young locals seeking to pray for love or reconnect with old flames.
History of Ha Pagoda – A sanctuary for seeking divine love
Originally named Thanh Duc Pagoda, Ha Pagoda, along with Boi Ha Shrine, forms the Ha Shrine-Pagoda heritage complex. Formerly located in Vong village (Dich Vong village), it is now situated in Ha Pagoda street (Dich Vong, Cau Giay, Hanoi).
According to ancient tales, Hanoi's Ha Pagoda was constructed by a wealthy family of ceramic artisans from Boi Khe village. Even today, the family's ancestral tomb remains preserved within the temple. Adjacent to this pagoda stands Ha Temple, venerating two loyal generals, Trieu Chi Thanh and Chu Ly, who served under King Trieu Viet's reign. This temple, entirely crafted from precious wood, has undergone numerous renovations and embellishments over the years, enhancing its beauty and grandeur to what we see today.
It's uncertain when the people of Hanoi began to regard this pagoda as a place for seeking romantic connections, although Ha Pagoda is not dedicated to any love deities like Ong Tơ and Bà Nguyệt. While other temples often attract older pilgrims, Ha Pagoda sees a larger influx of young individuals, both men and women, who come to pray for their romantic fortunes. Singles seek their soulmates, while couples pray for enduring love and happiness.
What's intriguing is that this pagoda isn't associated with any specific love legend. Yet, people are drawn here out of habit, believing in its miraculous powers to grant romantic wishes. They share stories and examples of the pagoda's divine intervention, reinforcing their belief in its mystical abilities.
Along the street leading to Ha Pagoda, only roses, symbolic of love, are sold. The souvenir shops surrounding the pagoda also offer many pairs of rings. At the beginning of the new year, worshippers not only pray for peace and prosperity but also for a harmonious and happy married life, for a love that lasts forever.
Praying Etiquette at Ha Pagoda
When praying for blessings at Ha Pagoda, how should one proceed? Remember to recite this prayer before participating in the formal ceremony, take your time and recite it calmly before proceeding to the main ritual.
Prayer for Blessings at Ha Pagoda:
After completing the prayer: Upon observing two-thirds of the incense sticks burning, they will turn into gold. Upon returning home on the same day, allocate time (during the day, evening, or night), to recite the mantra of the Medicine Buddha, Luu Ly Quang Phat.
When reciting this mantra, it's advisable to repeat it multiple times according to the available time. Maintain solemnity during recitation, speak softly so only you can hear, those around you should not overhear. Avoid speaking the mantra aloud for others to hear.
Ha Pagoda is not just a place preserving traditional beauty, the profound essence of Vietnam, but also a repository of the nation's historical values. Those who have visited here, offering incense and prayers, carry within them a belief in the divine response to their desires.
