METRO VANCOUVER – Buddhist philosophy teaches that Buddhahood is achieved by looking inward, but the architectural design of a place of worship can greatly affect one’s inner peace and state of mind.
That is one reason, Thrangu Rinpoche told a news conference Friday, that it is so significant that Richmond is now home to the first traditional-style Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Canada.
“This architecture, when you see it, it helps you have a kind heart and a good mind,” Rinpoche, the worldwide leader of the Thrangu monasteries, said through a translator. “It helps you feel peaceful. It’s something that is very beneficial for people who are practising Buddhist meditation. It has the power to make people feel peaceful and happy.”
The monastery, located at 8140 No. 5 Rd., incorporates ancient Indian and Tibetan Buddhist elements, Rinpoche said. The main shrine hall is dominated by red and gold. Six decorated pillars reach up to 12 colourful mandalas painted on the ceiling, and along the two side walls, 1,000 small, gold Buddha statues look out from individual glass cases. Adjacent to the main entrance are 200 statues of Amitabha, a major figure in some forms of Buddhism.
Anchoring the room is a four-metre gold-plated Shakyamuni Buddha, filled with precious offerings including scriptures, scrolls and sacred stones and pebbles from 108 different countries, including China, Hong Kong, India, Tibet, Sri Lanka and Canada. The shrine hall can comfortably accommodate up to 500 people.
The monastery is located in an area of Richmond near mosques and Catholic churches, a fact not lost on Rinpoche.
“It’s an example of how all the religions in the world can actually get along together,” he said. “That is why we are so fortunate to have this opportunity, in the country of Canada in general, and in particular this place in Richmond.”
Lyle Weinstein, English-language spokesman for the Thrangu monastery in Canada, said building it in the Pacific Northwest afforded modern conveniences such as the Internet. “We will be able to broadcast the events … so that people who are unable to be here in person can actually participate in this wonderful celebration,” he said.
This is the first Thrangu monastery outside of Asia and will be home to seven monks and lamas. The first Thrangu monastery was built in Kham, Tibet, at the end of the 15th century.
The public will be able to tour the monastery at 10 a.m. on Sunday, during its grand opening.
After a ribbon-cutting ceremony, monastery representatives and government officials will make welcoming remarks. Thrangu Rinpoche will speak before the official unveiling of the Buddha.
awoo@vancouversun.com
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