Thien Mu Pagoda, a cultural and spiritual icon of dreamy Hue, captivates visitors not only with its ancient architectural beauty but also with the profound history embedded in every brick and tile. The pagoda has witnessed the ups and downs of history, closely tied to the prosperity and decline of the Nguyen dynasty. Let “Travel Around the World” take you on an exciting journey to discover the formation and development of this ancient pagoda to better understand the cultural and historical values it brings to the Imperial City.
Origins from Legend: The Story Behind the Name “Thien Mu”
The story of Thien Mu Pagoda originates from a mystical legend linked to Nguyen Hoang, the lord who laid the foundation for the development of the Thuận Hóa – Phú Xuân region. It is said that in 1601, during a southern expedition, Lord Nguyen Hoang stopped at Ha Khe Hill.
Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue viewed from the Perfume River
Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue viewed from the Perfume River
Locals told him that a radiant lady in red clothes and green trousers, known as Thien Mu (Heavenly Lady), often appeared on the hill at night. She prophesied that a true ruler would someday build a pagoda here to safeguard the region’s spiritual energy and bring prosperity to the nation. Convinced that he was the chosen ruler foretold by the legend, Nguyen Hoang decided to construct the pagoda on the hill and named it “Thien Mu Pagoda” to express gratitude to the Heavenly Lady and to pray for peace and prosperity.
Thien Mu Pagoda Through the Ages: Witness to Dynasties
Since its establishment, Thien Mu Pagoda has undergone various phases of history, reflecting the unique marks left by the Nguyen dynasty and the nation’s turbulent periods.
Flourishing Phase Under the Nguyen Lords
Thien Mu Pagoda quickly rose to prominence as a significant Buddhist center in South Vietnam, receiving special attention from the Nguyen lords. Notably, during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu (1691–1725), the pagoda was expanded and renovated into a grand architectural complex featuring numerous pavilions and structures.
Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu sent envoys to China to obtain over 1,000 Buddhist scriptures, which were stored at the Tang Kinh Pavilion within the pagoda. This turned Thien Mu Pagoda into a major Buddhist library, spreading Buddhist teachings to the community.
The Phase of War and Decline
The prosperity of Thien Mu Pagoda did not last forever. During the occupation of Phú Xuân by Trịnh forces (1775–1786), the pagoda suffered significant damage due to war. Its state of decay was sorrowfully documented by two Trịnh officials, Bui Huy Bich and Truong Dang Quy, in poetic lines:
“Nguyen family’s shrine suffers fallow fate
Thousands of cells now crumble into waste.”
Under the Tây Sơn dynasty (1786–1801), the pagoda continued to suffer from wars, leading to further deterioration.
Revitalization Under the Nguyen Dynasty
It was not until the reigns of Gia Long and Minh Mang, the first rulers of the Nguyen dynasty, that Thien Mu Pagoda underwent significant restoration and regained its former glory. However, in 1904, a massive storm (known as the “year of the dragon storm”) inflicted severe damage to many structures in the pagoda, some of which had to be dismantled.
In 1957, the pagoda underwent another major renovation. During this reconstruction, wooden structures such as pillars and beams were replaced with concrete designed to mimic wood.
Unique Architecture: A Harmonious Blend of Spirituality and Art
Thien Mu Pagoda is not only renowned for its history but also admired for its distinctive architecture, a harmonious combination of spiritual and artistic elements. Built on a rectangular hill, the entire structure is surrounded by stone and brick walls resembling the shape of a turtle.
The old Phuoc Duyen Tower and Huong Nguyen Pavilion
The old Phuoc Duyen Tower and Huong Nguyen Pavilion
Phuoc Duyen Tower: The Icon of Thien Mu Pagoda
One of the most prominent features of Thien Mu Pagoda is Phuoc Duyen Tower. Standing 21 meters tall with seven tiers, the tower was constructed in 1844. Originally named Tu Nhan Tower, it was later renamed Phuoc Duyen. Each tier houses statues of different Buddhas, symbolizing “Seven Buddhas of the Past.” Phuoc Duyen Tower has become a symbol of Thien Mu Pagoda and an integral part of Hue’s picturesque landscape.
Dai Hong Chung: Resonating Across the Imperial City
Another treasure of Thien Mu Pagoda is Dai Hong Chung, a large bronze bell forged under Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu in 1710. The bell measures 2.5 meters in height, with a diameter of 1.4 meters and weighs over 2 tons. Its resonating sound has become part of Hue’s cultural heritage, immortalized in folk poetry:
“Wind sways bamboo branches gently
Thien Mu’s bell echoes at the break of dawn.”
In 2013, Dai Hong Chung was recognized as a national treasure, underscoring its historical and cultural significance.
Dai Hung Shrine: A Sacred Place of Worship
Dai Hung Shrine is the central architectural structure of Thien Mu Pagoda. Designed with a multi-chambered layout, including a reception hall and the main hall, it houses numerous statues of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats, showcasing the diversity in Buddhist practices.
Dai Hung Shrine
Dai Hung Shrine
The interior of Dai Hung Shrine is solemnly arranged, evoking a sense of tranquility for visitors seeking spiritual solace.
Historical and Cultural Significance: A Priceless Heritage of Hue
Thien Mu Pagoda is not merely a religious structure but a priceless historical and cultural heritage of Hue. The pagoda encapsulates the rise and fall of the Nguyen dynasty while preserving the unique cultural and artistic values of this land.
Interior of Dai Hung Shrine
Interior of Dai Hung Shrine
With its ancient architectural beauty, serene atmosphere, and fascinating historical stories, Thien Mu Pagoda is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Hue. It allows visitors to delve deeper into the region’s history, culture, and people.
Conclusion
Exploring the history of Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue is akin to embarking on a time-traveling journey to uncover the cultural and historical treasures of this sacred place. From the legend of the Heavenly Lady to the myriad phases of history, from its unique architecture to priceless artifacts, Thien Mu Pagoda stands as a remarkable icon of Vietnam’s Imperial City. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda to experience its tranquility, admire its architectural marvels, and delve into captivating historical tales, gaining a deeper understanding of Hue and its people.