Mahasthamprapta, Da Shi Zhi Pusa, is one of the three main Buddha/Boddhisattvas in the Pureland universe. Often they are depicted together, with Amitaba, Buddha of the Pureland at the center, Avalokitesvara to the right and Mahasthamaprata to the left. “Home” is my layman’s description, officially it’s called the ashram of of Mahasthamaprapta. The pagoda pictured here, Zhiyun Pagoda of Langshan (the "Lang" mountain this temple is situated on), was built around 1000 years ago during the Song Dynasty to commemorate Mahasthamaprata or DaShiZhi Pusa (Chinese).
GuangJiaoSi (Si = Temple), 广教寺, was first built in 996AD by Master Sangha, has a special significance for us, the pilgrims. Firstly, we are or I am truly excited to visit thirty or so temples starting with this one. Secondly, our group is comprised of Dharma Drum Mountain monastics, volunteers (myself) and friends. Late Master Shen Yen, who founded Dharma Drum Mountain lineage, was ordained as a novice monk and studied here as a young monastic.
No.18 Lingang Rd, Langshan, Chongchuan, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
