Dau Pagoda - Phap Van Tu

Dau Pagoda- The Cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism

Dau Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, is located in the Dau region, considered the cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism. The pagoda stands out not only for its unique architecture but also for its long-standing historical, cultural, and spiritual values.

1. Location and Formation History

Dau Pagoda, also known as Dien Ung Tu, Phap Van Tu, or Co Chau Tu, is located in Thanh Khuong Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, about 30 km from the center of Hanoi. Although not located within Hanoi itself, Dau Pagoda is considered as an important heritage site closely linked to the cultural development of ancient Thang Long. The pagoda was built in the 2nd century AD, during the time of Si Nhiep, who introduced Buddhism from India to Giao Chi. Initially, it served as a major Buddhist center, playing a crucial role in disseminating the teachings and shaping the spiritual life of the people in the Northern Delta region.

The pagoda has been rebuilt several times over the dynasties, with significant renovations, especially in 1313 under King Tran Anh Tong. Dau Pagoda is considered the center of the Four Dharmas – a unique belief system in the Dau region, worshiping the deities of Clouds (Phap Van), Rain (Phap Vu), Thunder (Phap Loi), and Lightning (Dharma Electricity). Phap Van is considered as the highest deity, making Dau Pagoda the place to worship Phap Van and the spiritual center of the region and the entire country.

2. Mystical Legends

According to folk legends, several mystical stories are related to the origins of this pagoda.

The Legend of Man Nuong

The family of Mr. andMrs. Tu Dinh in Ma Xa Village, known for their kindness and admiration for Buddhism, sent their only daughter, Man Nuong or Miss Men, to Linh Quang Pagoda (Tien Du, Bac Ninh) to practice Buddhism. At the pagoda, Man Nuong helped with daily chores. One day, after cleaning up, she fell asleep at the doorstep. When the monk Khau Da La returned, he did not want to wake her and stepped over her. Unexpectedly, this moment was when "Heaven and Earth united," and Man Nuong became pregnant. On the 8th day of the 4th lunar month, she gave birth to a baby girl with a fragrant scent, five-colored clouds, and a glowing light.

The monk took the child to a mulberry tree in the pagoda, used his staff to tap the tree, and chanted a mantra. Miraculously, the tree split open, allowing the monk to place the child inside, and the tree then closed up as before. Khau Da La gave Man Nuong the staff and inspired her to plant it in the ground during a drought to save the people. When the Dau region experienced a three-year drought, Man Nuong remembered the monk's instructions and planted the magic staff in the ground. Immediately, water sprang up, revitalizing the plants, fields, and saving the population from the drought.

Later, during a stormy night, the mulberry tree fell and floated down the Mulberry River. Governor Si Nhiep dreamed of a deity who requested that he carve a statue from the tree. He ordered his soldiers to retrieve the tree, but none could do so. Only when Man Nuong used her waistband to pull the tree and said, "If you are my child, then come to me," did everything proceed smoothly. Governor Si Nhiep then had four statues carved, representing natural phenomena: Phap Van (Clouds), Phap Vu (Rain), Phap Loi (Thunder), and Phap Dien (Lightning). These statues were subsequently worshiped in four pagodas: Dau Pagoda, Dau Pagoda, Dan Pagoda, and Tuong Pagoda.

The Legend of Mac Dinh Chi

Another legend involves Mac Dinh Chi, a devoted son. When his mother was imprisoned, Mac Dinh Chi built a paper pagoda according to the king's request, with a nine-story tower, a nine-span bridge, and a hundred-compartment temple. Eventually, his mother was released, and he rejoiced that the pagoda was constructed as such. Another record suggests that Mac Dinh Chi repaired and reconstructed Dau Pagoda, building a hundred-compartment pagoda, a nine-story tower, and a nine-span bridge under King Tran Anh Tong's orders.
The legends about Dau Pagoda not only reflect the blending of folk beliefs and Buddhism but also contain profound spiritual values.

3. Unique Architecture

Entering the pagoda gate, visitors are immediately impressed by the ancient architectural style mixed with solemnity and tranquility. Dau Pagoda has a "Cong" shape structure, built mainly with wood and stone, creating a timeless beauty.

• Hoa Phong Tower:

The most prominent feature of the pagoda is the Hoa Phong Tower, about 17 meters high, located right in front of the pagoda courtyard. The tower has three levels, each with arch-shaped windows to let in natural light. Inside the tower are valuable Buddha statues. Additionally, the tower houses a bronze bell cast in 1793 and a bronze gong cast in 1817. From afar, Hoa Phong Tower looks like a bright torch amid nature.

• Main Shrine Area:

The main shrine area of the pagoda is elaborately arranged with large Buddha statues such as Phap Van (Lady Dau), Phap Vu (Lady Dau), Phap Loi, and Phap Dien – representing the four natural elements (clouds, rain, thunder, lightning). These deities have been localized, symbolizing prayers for favorable weather and abundant crops.

• Corridors and Small Courtyards:

Surrounding the main shrine are long corridors displaying statues of Arhats and exquisite Buddhist murals. Additionally, the pagoda has an ancient well area and centuries-old trees, creating a serene and cool atmosphere.

4. Pagoda Strawberry Festival

Dau Pagoda is not only a place of worship for Buddhists but also a cultural center with a famous festival held annually on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month. This is an occasion for people to give thanks to the heavens and earth and to pray for peace and prosperity. The well-known folk saying of the Kinh Bac people:

"Wanderers, far or near,
Should you see Dau's pagoda, turn your feet here.
Though your trades may vary,
On the eighth, to Dau's fair, you must carry."

This saying will certainly leave a lasting impression on everyone.

• Traditional Ceremonies:

The procession of the Phap Van statue is considered the most sacred event, where the statue is taken outside the pagoda to "wander" and bless everyone. Accompanying these are dragon and lion dances, as well as special folk songs.

• Folk Games:

During the festival, visitors can participate in various folk games such as tug-of-war, wrestling, and kite flying. This is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the lively festival atmosphere.

5. Spiritual and Cultural Values

Dau Pagodais a place where Buddhism and Vietnamese folk believes intersect. The statues of Phap Van, Phap Vu, Phap Loi, and Phap Dien not only hold Buddhist significance but also symbolize the four natural pillars, playing a crucial role in Vietnamese agricultural life. Additionally, the pagoda hosts retreats and Dharma teachings, attracting many Buddhists from all over. Visitors here can find peace and tranquility in their souls while worshiping.

6. Conclusion

With a history of over 2,000 years, Dau Pagoda is not only a national historical monument but also a testament to the convergence of Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese cultures. Visiting Dau Pagoda, you can admire the architectural beauty, participate in festival activities, and find serenity amid the flow of modern life.

Make a trip here to experience the harmony between the past and present, between humans and nature, and between beliefs and culture. Dau Pagodais sure to be one of the most memorable destinations in your exploration journey!

Tour Tips:
• Ideal Time: Visit the pagoda during the festival season in the 4th lunar month or the early days of the new year to experience the festive atmosphere.
• Attire: Since this is a place, choose modest and respectful sacred clothing.
• Combine Visits: After visiting Dau Pagoda, you can also visit nearby sites like Ba Chua Kho Temple, Dong Ho Painting Village, or But Thap Pagoda to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the culture and history of Bac Ninh.