Cishou Temple
Cishou Temple, also known as Nangshan Temple, is a significant Buddhist temple located on Mount Nang in Putian, Fujian, China. Founded in the Tang dynasty, it has undergone numerous expansions, destructions, and reconstructions throughout its history, reflecting periods of imperial patronage, religious persecution, and eventual revival. The temple is recognized as a National Key Buddhist Temple in the Han Chinese Area.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 876 by Buddhist monk Miaoying during the Tang dynasty.
- ›Expanded by Wang Shenzhi, the King of Fujian, in memory of his mother.
- ›Suffered a major fire in 1287 during the Yuan dynasty and was later destroyed in wars.
- ›Rebuilt and expanded multiple times during the Ming and Qing dynasties, with some structures surviving periods of demolition.
- ›Designated a National Key Buddhist Temple in the Han Chinese Area by the State Council of China in 1983.
- ›Reopened to the public in 1981 and completely rebuilt in 1982 with support from overseas Chinese monks.
Important Relationships
- Emperor Xizong of Tang
- Wang Shenzhi
- Emperor Renzong of Song
- Abbot Shengong
- Abbot Daojie
- Abbot Xiangjiang
- Abbot Yongqing
- Yongle Emperor
- Jiajing Emperor
- Emperor Guangxu
- Abbot Tongyuan
- Abbot Huaguang
- Master Zhengming
- Master Miaoyi
Fangmu Pavilion, Yuntao Pavilion, Canngxia Pavilion, Zhanlü Pavilion, Shiping Hall, Songfeng Pavilion, Yunwo Hall, Baiyun Hall, Haiyue Hall, Yanshou Hall, Pilu Hall, Lunzang Hall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Mahavira Hall, Dharma Hall, Meditation Hall, Reception Hall, Guru Hall, Merit Hall, Dharma Protectors Hall, Shanmen, Abbot's Hall, Pagoda, Buddhist Texts Library
- Founded In 876 By Miaoying
- Expanded By Wang Shenzhi
- Largely Extended and Renovated In 1034
- Destroyed By Fire In 1287
- Restored In 1366
- Rebuilt and Reconstructed Multiple Times During the Ming Dynasty
- Demolished During the Jiajing Emperor's Reign, With Only Lunzang Hall and Drum Tower Surviving
- Mahavira Hall Restored In 1885
- Various Halls and Towers Established In 1908
- Shanmen and Abbot's Hall Founded In 1932
- Pagoda and Buddhist Texts Library Added In 1951
- Damaged During the Cultural Revolution
- Reopened To the Public In 1981
- Completely Rebuilt In 1982
- Designated As A National Key Buddhist Temple In 1983
About Cishou Temple
Cishou Temple, also referred to as Nangshan Temple or the Temple of Mount Nang, is a historically significant Buddhist temple situated on Mount Nang in Putian, Fujian, China. Its origins trace back to the Tang dynasty, with its establishment in 876 by the eminent monk Miaoying. The temple's name, "Cishou Chan Temple," was bestowed upon it by Emperor Xizong. Throughout its existence, Cishou Temple has experienced a dynamic history marked by periods of imperial favor, resulting in expansions and renovations, as well as times of severe destruction and decline, including devastating fires, wars, and imperial policies that targeted Buddhist establishments.
Historical Development
The temple's early history saw expansion under Wang Shenzhi, the King of Fujian, who commemorated his mother's birthday by enlarging the complex. During the Song dynasty, in 1034, Cishou Temple underwent significant renovations and extensions, with numerous halls and pavilions added, supporting a community of hundreds of monks. However, the Yuan dynasty brought devastation with a fire in 1287, and subsequent wars led to further ruin.
The Ming dynasty witnessed a concerted effort to rebuild and restore Cishou Temple. Abbots Daojie, Xiangjiang, and Yongqing were instrumental in reconstructing key structures like the Dharma Hall, Guru Hall, Kitchen, Dining Hall, monk's rooms, Pilu Hall, Lunzang Hall, Bell tower, and Drum tower. The temple experienced a resurgence of Chan Buddhism in 1433. Despite these efforts, the temple faced further destruction during the reign of the Jiajing Emperor, who favored Taoism, leading to the demolition of many Buddhist temples. Only the Lunzang Hall and Drum tower survived this period.
The Qing dynasty saw a gradual decline, though some restoration occurred, such as the Mahavira Hall in 1885. By 1908, several important halls and towers were re-established. The early Republic of China period saw the founding of the Shanmen and Abbot's Hall in 1932. Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, the temple received protection from the Fujian Government. A pagoda and Buddhist Texts Library were added in 1951. However, the Cultural Revolution caused significant damage and forced monks to flee.
Revival and Recognition
After the policy of religious freedom was officially implemented, Cishou Temple was reopened to the public in 1981. Overseas Chinese monks provided crucial financial support for its complete rebuilding in 1982. In recognition of its historical and religious importance, Cishou Temple was designated a National Key Buddhist Temple in the Han Chinese Area by the State Council of China in 1983. The temple continues to function as an active monastic residence and a site of religious significance.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cishou Temple founded?
Cishou Temple was founded in 876 by the eminent Buddhist monk Miaoying during the Tang dynasty. Its name, "Cishou Chan Temple," was inscribed by Emperor Xizong.
What significant events has Cishou Temple experienced?
The temple has a long history of significant events, including expansions by royalty, devastating fires and wars that led to destruction, periods of imperial suppression, and multiple reconstructions. It was officially reopened to the public in 1981 and designated a National Key Buddhist Temple in 1983.
Has Cishou Temple always been in good condition?
No, Cishou Temple has faced considerable destruction throughout its history. It was reduced to ashes by a fire in 1287, destroyed in wars after the Yuan dynasty, and faced demolition during the Jiajing Emperor's reign. It was also badly damaged during the Cultural Revolution.
What is the current status of Cishou Temple?
Cishou Temple was officially reopened to the public in 1981 and underwent a complete rebuilding in 1982. It is now recognized as a National Key Buddhist Temple and continues to function as a religious site.
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