Monk Gongqian Pagoda

Monk Gongqian Pagoda

Monk Gongqian Pagoda is a cultural relic protection unit of Jiangxi Province.

Monk Gongqian Pagoda is located in Jinzhu Ping to the southwest of Guling on Mount Lu. It was first built in the 46th year of the Wanli reign during the Ming Dynasty (1618 AD) as the burial pagoda of Monk Gongqian. According to the Continued Chronicles of Mount Lu, Monk Gongqian founded Jiuzhi Temple in the 7th year of the Wanli reign, which later became increasingly popular among worshippers. Historically, Monk Gongqian Pagoda has collapsed several times. After a comprehensive renovation in 1986, the cultural relics management department has maintained it regularly. The rebuilt pagoda consists of three tiers, made up of eight granite blocks, standing 3.5 meters tall with a base diameter of 1.3 meters. It rests quietly amidst lush greenery, solemn and dignified, covering an area of over 200 square meters. The surroundings are enclosed by a railing made of carved flower panels and ornamental columns, giving it an elegant and refreshing look. On the base sits a hexagonal stone block, atop which inverted and upright lotus petals support a round drum-shaped stone engraved with inscriptions such as "Pagoda of the Late Monk Gongqian." The spire of the hexagonal stone pillar is inscribed with Buddhist phrases including "May the empire last forever, the emperor's reign prosper, the Dharma wheel turn constantly, the Buddhist realm flourish, and Amitabha Buddha bless us." Between the spire and the inverted lotus base are decorative upside-down and upright lotus seats. To the left front of the altar lies a naturally formed reclining stone inscribed with the characters “Reclining Stele.” Above the stele is a massive rock shaped like a boat, with a three-tiered, six-sided stone pagoda at its bow—simple and elegant, often referred to as the Boat Pagoda. The bow is slightly raised as if ready to soar into the sky. This pagoda uniquely combines features of a Buddhist pagoda and a Lamaist stupa, making it quite rare. It is the largest surviving monk’s pagoda on Mount Lu.

Source: China Lushan Tourism Network

Further Reading:

· Second Batch of Cultural Relic Protection Units in Jiangxi Province