Dau Pagoda - Phap Vu Tu

Dau Pagoda, also known as Phap Vu Tu or Thanh Dao Tu, is located in Gia Phuc Hamlet, Nguyen Trai Commune, Thuong Tin District, Hanoi. This is one of the Buddhist architectural works with special historical and cultural value, serving not only as a place of Buddhist worship but also as a site where folk beliefs and Buddhism intersect.

1. Origins and Significance

According to legend, the pagoda was erected during the second period of Northern domination (602 - 939), but according to stone inscriptions, it was built during the Ly Dynasty.

Initially, the system of pagodas in Vietnam in general and Dau Pagoda, in particular, originated from the worship of agricultural deities, the gods governing clouds, rain, thunder, and lightning – important elements in agricultural production. These deities are part of the Four Dharmas (Four Dharmas) system (Phap Van, Phap Vu, Phap Loi, Phap Dien), who were deified and worshiped according to Buddhist beliefs. For this reason, the colors of the main statues in the pagoda are dark plum, symbolizing water, which is closely connected to the agricultural life of the people.

2. Unique Architecture and Significance

Dau Pagoda is a vast architectural complex, built in the "inner shape resembling the Chinese character "工" and outer shape resembling the Chinese character "国") style – a layout deeply influenced by the yin-yang philosophy in Eastern cultures. The pagoda is designed in the shape of a "工" character, with the structures for worshiping Buddha and saints arranged around, forming the shape of the "国" character (nation), symbolizing the country and stability.

The pagoda grounds include: the triple gate, the left and right houses, the front hall, the three treasures hall, and the ancestral house. Notably, in front of the pagoda is a triple gate combined with a two-story, eight-roof bell tower, which stands out and is magnificent. This is not only a unique architectural work but also incorporates elements of the I Ching and Buddhism.

The bell tower's roof is divided into two parts: the upper roof is light like the sky (Qian hexagram), and the lower roof is heavy like the earth (Kun hexagram), creating a balance of yin and yang. The intricate carvings on the triple gate, such as dragons flanking the moon, phoenixes, kylins, and other folk motifs, all symbolize good luck and prosperity. The second floor of the triple gate houses a large bell cast in the 9th year of Canh Thinh (1801), its sound resonating every morning and evening like a spiritual reminder, guiding people towards the tranquility of Buddhism.

3. Stone Statues and Artistic Carvings

Next, you cannot miss the pair of stone dragons on the steps of the front hall, a masterpiece of stone carving with an age of about 500 years. The carved lines seem to breathe life into the stone, creating a serene yet majestic look. This is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of ancient artisans.

The front hall of Dau Pagoda bears the hallmarks of the 17th century, with the architecture of overlapping beams and intricate carvings. Here, you will see images of dragons, phoenixes, kylins, and wave patterns, symbols imbued with national identity, demonstrating the meticulousness and creativity of ancient artisans.

The two statues of Mr. Good and Mr. Evil placed in the front hall are also very impressive; they symbolize the encouragement of doing good and the punishment of evil, reflecting the Buddhist philosophy of life. Additionally, in the front hall is a wooden khanh (musical instrument) dating back to the Chinh Hoa period (late 17th century), considered a rare and valuable artifact in Vietnamese cultural heritage.

4. Three Treasures Hall and Precious Artifacts

Although the Three Treasures Hall of the pagoda was destroyed during the French colonial period, precious remnants remain. You will admire the intricately carved stone pedestal from the 16th century, as well as the bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni standing on a lotus throne. Behind it is the statue of Phap Vu, a unique statue newly restored in the mid-20th century.

One of the other special artifacts is the dragon bricks from the Mac period (16th century), bricks with images of dragons, tigers, elephants, horses, birds, and other animals... which are both highly artistic and rich in folk elements.

5. Mummified Bodies of Zen Masters

Dau Pagoda is also notable for a very special phenomenon – the mummified bodies of Zen Masters Vu Khac Minh and Vu Khac Truong. These Zen masters practiced to a high state, and after passing away, their bodies did not decompose. To this day, their remains are preserved at the pagoda. This makes Dau Pagoda one of the rare places in Vietnam that preserves the mummified bodies of Zen masters, demonstrating their spiritual attainment.

X-ray equipment has confirmed that the bodies of these Zen masters show no signs of tampering or damage, making these statues invaluable spiritual artifacts.

6. Dau Pagoda – An Unmissable Spiritual Destination

Dau Pagoda is not just a pagoda with unique architecture but also a place that preserves profound cultural, artistic, and spiritual values. With the intersection of folk beliefs and Buddhism, Dau Pagoda is a highlight in the system of relics in Thuong Tin District and one of the most worthwhile pagodas to visit, to learn about the history and culture of Vietnamese Buddhism.