Chengdu Wenshu Monastery: A Landmark Bearing the Millennia-Old Civilization of Zen Temples in the Yangtze River Basin

Wenshu Monastery in Chengdu, originally named "Xinxiang Temple," was first built during the Sui Dynasty's Daye period (605–617 AD). It was rebuilt during the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty by Zen Master Cidu, and Emperor Kangxi bestowed the plaque inscribed with "Konglin" (Empty Forest), establishing it as a major Buddhist center. In 1983, it was designated as a National Key Buddhist Temple in Han Chinese Areas and remains the foremost Zen temple in the Yangtze River Basin. Wenshu Monastery not only showcases profound Buddhist cultural heritage and continues the thousand-year Zen lineage but also actively promotes Buddhist education and exchange. It engages in public welfare and charity, embodying the core spirit of compassion and wisdom. As a spiritual sanctuary in the bustling city, Wenshu Monastery offers a tranquil retreat where visitors can cultivate their minds and return to their true selves, making it an essential place for modern individuals seeking inner peace. The monastery houses rare and precious relics, including the Buddha's relics and the skull relic of Master Xuanzang, collectively known as the "Two Saints of Konglin" (only displayed on specific occasions). Other treasures include Sichuan-style Buddhist chants, the Laba Festival temple fair (an intangible cultural heritage), and the "Eight Views of Konglin." Our group of five strolled leisurely through the alleys into the silent Wenshu Monastery. A gentle rain began to fall, as if the heavens were showing compassion, sprinkling nectar to cleanse the soul. The raindrops tapped on the green tiles, whispering softly in the crevices of the stones, gradually clearing our minds. Wisdom (Prajna) seemed to hide quietly around the corners, embedded in the everyday scenery. The disturbances of the mundane world felt like fleeting clouds; the light rain brushing against the tiles washed away the clamor. We also observed two essential rituals performed by devotees when worshiping at Wenshu Monastery. The first is gently touching the "Fu" (Blessing) character on the main hall's door frame, symbolizing the wish to bring blessings into one's home and heart, praying for good fortune, peace, and health. The second is stroking the bronze qilin statues in front of the Dharma Hall, which are auspicious, gentle, and plump in appearance, to pray for prosperity and a smooth life. Interestingly, due to years of countless devotees' touch, the bronze surfaces of these two qilins have been polished to a bright sheen, making them the most beloved "mascots" of Wenshu Monastery. They not only embody people's prayers for blessings and wisdom but also add a sense of warmth and spiritual energy to the temple.