Come to admire an age-old relic

Published: 07/04/2010 05:00

Those spending time with the Tran Temple in the northern coast province of Nam Dinh either praying for good luck or merely admiring the fine ancient architecture . . .

The 700-year-old-plus tree in front of the main worshiping place of Mau Temple.

Like other sacred temples in Vietnam’s north, Mau Temple is always crowded by pilgrims from different parts of the country, particularly the north, who come to say a prayer and especially draw lots during the first three months of the lunar calendar. Worshippers say the temple is a place of marvelous things because the drawn lots, which are in the form of flat bamboo sticks, correctly foretell one’s future. This explains why almost all temple visitors are seen in good faith drawing one lot each after placing some money for merit on the altar in the back of the temple. The stick is then exchanged for a piece of paper with a prophecy written in Chinese, which can only be explained by someone who is much like a fortune teller.

That’s all what for people who have faith in sortilege. For those wishing to view and appreciate the ancient architecture of the temple, it is highly recommended. What makes it different from other temples in the north, such as Tran Temple in Nam Dinh Province, is that a lake called Ban Nguyet (semicircle) is outside rather than inside the entrance of Mau Temple. Another special thing is a giant tree which is more than 700 years old. This tree forms an arch in front of the main worshiping place and makes the temple look even more divine. Legend has it that birds dropped seeds around the tomb of Lady Yang and one of the seeds grew into this huge tree, creating an excellent shade for the temple.

This temple is just one of the many relics which visitors can see when arriving in Pho Hien, including Van Mieu, Pho Pagoda, Chuong Pagoda, Tran Temple, and May Temple. There is a blend of the traditions of Chinese, Japanese and European people in Pho Hien since the town was formerly a busy port area frequented by merchant ships from abroad. Just one destination offers a host of places to drop by and admire.

VietNamNet/SGT

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