Nguyen Binh Khiem Temple, the Distinguished Sage of Cang Land

Situated in Ly Hoc commune, Vinh Bao district, Hai Phong, the Nguyen Binh Khiem Temple is a place of worship and remembrance for the revered Trang Nguyen, held in deep reverence by the people.

Nguyen Binh Khiem Temple, the Distinguished Sage of Cang Land

Nguyen Binh Khiem (1491-1585) was a person of high talent and virtue, an exemplary model of the Mac dynasty era. Due to the unstable state of the country at that time, he only took the imperial exam at the age of 43 and secured the top position immediately. Subsequently, he passed the provincial exam and attained the position of Trang Nguyen in the At Mui year (1535).

After serving the Mac dynasty for 8 years, he boldly submitted a memorial exposing crimes and requesting the execution of 18 arrogant deities. When the king ignored his advice, he promptly returned his official attire, returned to his hometown, and established a temple for teaching. His students included many talented individuals such as Phung Khac Khoan, Nguyen Du, and others.

While in seclusion, like the Trinh and Nguyen lords, King Mac still consulted him when important matters arose. He discreetly advised the king to avoid war and maintain peace for the people. Upon his passing, he was posthumously honored as Trinh Quoc Cong. He is a shining example of patriotism, compassion for the people, daring to accuse corrupt officials, and wholeheartedly serving the people.

The entire historical site comprises 9 components, including the Kinh Thien Brush Tower; the temple dedicated to Nguyen Binh Khiem, constructed in 1585 with three front chambers, two rear chambers, and two front ponds. A horizontal lacquered board bears the inscription 'An Nam Ly Hoc.' There is also an exhibition house showcasing the life and career of Nguyen Binh Khiem and the ancestral tomb of his father.

Additionally, there is a 5.7m tall, 8.5-ton stone statue of Nguyen Binh Khiem; a crescent-shaped lake spanning approximately 1,000m²; Song Mai Pagoda; a statue commemorating Minh Nguyet, the wife of Nguyen Binh Khiem, and Quan Trung Tan, a place preserving new beliefs related to the term 'Trung,' aligned with 'righteousness and goodness.'

In front of the temple, two stone dragons flank a decorative screen, resembling the opening of a revered book, adding solemnity to the temple. Towering ancient banyan trees with massive trunks stand alongside the courtyard, next to the Thai Nham Lake, where goldfish swim gracefully in the crystal-clear water.

Behind the temple lies the ancestral church of Trang Trinh, constructed with carefully trimmed wooden flowerpots. Next is a thatched-roof area resembling the former Bach Van Am, where he, after retiring from public service, engaged in teaching and poetry.

The Am is considered a renowned Dai tap school, a source of inspiration for 1000 Nôm poems, Bach Van Am's classical poetry, and Trinh Quoc Cong's Thunderscripts. From this Bach Van Am, he had encounters with envoys from the Mac, Trinh, and Nguyen dynasties seeking consultation.

To the right of the temple is a small courtyard showcasing carved scenes from Trang Trinh's later life after retiring. The space features statues portraying expressive figures, scenes of joyous locals welcoming Trang back to his homeland, young children with parents seeking education, and former students coming to inquire about his well-being.

On the left of the Nguyen Binh Khiem temple, a majestic monument stands proudly at the heart of the historical site, commanding respect beneath the open sky. Facing the crescent-shaped lake, it is surrounded by swaying green willows along the shore, backed by the steadfast mountain peak.

In front of the monument is a square, a venue for festivals and city events. Notably, during exams or the start of the academic year, parents and students often come here seeking auspicious blessings.

Within the historical site, two relief sculptures, each over 5m tall and 20m long, depict key aspects of Trang Trinh's life journey from childhood to his later years. One illustrates his personal journey, while the other portrays the local historical period from the French colonial invasion to the present day.

Not far away stands the Kinh Thien Brush Tower, erected over 400 years ago by Nguyen Binh Khiem's students to celebrate their teacher's talent. Over time, erosion took its toll, and the tower collapsed. It was later reconstructed during the Nguyen era, featuring two levels and eight roofs, with an empty interior.

Through numerous transformations, the historical site has undergone multiple renovations to preserve its rich cultural and historical heritage for visitors. The influx of tourists continues to rise, not only during festivals. In 2015, the entire site, including the Nguyen Binh Khiem temple, was recognized as a special National Heritage site. This event contributed to the conservation, promotion, and enhancement of the site's value.

According to Mytour

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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour