The History of Buddha King Tran Nhan Tong at Ngoa Van

After the country and the realm were at peace, King - Buddha Tran Nhan Tong returned to Vu Lam Palace (in present-day Ninh Binh) to seek ordination and spiritual guidance from National Master Hue Tue, beginning his monastic career. In 1299, he returned to the capital, Thang Long, and then went straight to Yen Tu Mountain, diligently practicing asceticism under the name Huong Van Dai Dau Da. He built temples, preached the Dharma, and ordained monks. Many Buddhists gathered at Yen Tu. Simultaneously, he unified the three Zen sects: Ty-Ni-Da-Luu-Chi, Vo Ngon Thong, and Thao Duong to establish the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect, characterized by the philosophy of "Cu tran lac dao" ("Living in the world with joy in the Way") and "Hoa quang dong tran" (Shining light while mingling with the dust). This Zen sect bore a unique identity of Dai Viet, emphasizing the heart of each sentient being as the heart of the Buddha and aligning the desires of the Vietnamese people with those of a wise king and a Buddha. Huong Van Dai Dau Da Tran Nhan Tong frequently traveled to various places to teach the Dharma. He propagated Buddhism not only in urban and rural areas but also ventured into neighboring lands. In 1304, he walked with a bamboo staff through various localities and villages across the country, encouraging people to observe the Five Precepts, practice the Ten Good Deeds, eliminate improper worship practices, eradicate superstitions, and build true faith. When his life's mission was complete, Buddha King Tran Nhan Tong returned to Ngoa Van to enter nirvana on the 1st of November, 1308 (lunar calendar). He recognized Ngoa Van as a blessed and sacred place, thus choosing it as his final resting place. He left behind a great ideology and an invaluable spiritual and cultural heritage at Ngoa Van for future generations.

View more