Beijing’s most spectacular place of worship is also the most famous Buddhist temple outside of Tibet. It has five main halls, as well as some stunning statuary. The path through the Lama Temple proceeds from south to north – from earth to heaven.
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Panchen LamaWhile the Dalai Lama, head of the sect to which the Lama Temple belongs, lives in exile, the second head, the Panchen Lama, resides in Beijing. In contrast to the Dalai Lama, the Panchen recognizes Chinese authority. However, the matter of the true identity of the Panchen Lama is a matter of controversy. China supports one candidate, while the Tibetans recognize another – only he vanished in suspicious circumstances in 1995. |
Imperial dragon decoration
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Drum and Bell Towers
The temple’s Drum and Bell towers are in the first courtyard after passing through the main entrance. The huge bell has been removed from its tower and placed on the ground.
Hall of the Heavenly Kings
The first hall has a plump laughing Buddha, Milefo, back-to-back with Wei Tuo, the Guardian of Buddhist Doctrine. They are flanked by the Four Heavenly Kings.
Hall of Eternal Protection
The third hall contains Buddhas of longevity and medicine. It also has two famous tangkas, said to have been embroidered by Emperor Qianlong’s mother. Behind the hall is a bronze sculpture of Mount Meru, the center of the Buddhist universe.
Hall of the Wheel of Dharma
Hall four has a 20-foot (6-m) high statue of Tsongkhapa, the 14th-century founder of the Yellow Hat sect of Buddhism. Dominant in Tibetan politics for centuries, the sect is led by the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama.
Incense Burner
There are incense burners in front of all the many altars throughout the temple. Shops lining the entryway to the complex and in the neighboring streets are piled with bundles of incense sticks for sale for use at the temple.
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