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Padmasambhava
who continued the construction of the monastery. On the day of
the foundation ceremony, King Trisong Detsen gave permission
to seven descendants of the blue blood for staying in the
temple and for cultivation in it. They were the first group of
monks ever to stay in the Samye Monastery. They came to be
known as 'Seven Enlightened Disciples of Samye'. Since then,
the monastery has become a national treasure and is now under
the care of the government.
Samye Monastery is also equally important
to the people of Tibet. They say if you visit the complete
temple, you would have traveled the entire universe. The whole
monastery is build as an exact replica of Universe mentioned
in the Sutras. In the center, the majestic Wuzi hall depicts
Mt. Meru, which is considered to be the starting point of the
world. Similar to the position of Sun and Moon in Universe,
the sun and moon Chapel are constructed in north and south
respectively. The four large halls and eight smaller one
symbolizes the four large and eight small continents of the
world. There is a circular wall all round the monastery which
depicts the boundary of the World.
This monastery is called as the 'Three Styled Temple' as the
hall is divided into three layers, all with different styles,
the lowest layer in Tibetan style, middle layer in Han style
and the topmost layer in Indian style. On the middle layer of
hall, Historical records of Tibet are inscribed on the walls
which contains the religious history of Tibet. There are many
captivating murals that hangs on the wall and show the history
of Samye monastery apart from the biography of the legendary
master Padmasambhava. A pair of spectacular lion sculpture,
ancient artifacts that are well preserved and the first bell
made in the history of Tibet are also there in the monastery.
One should try to visit this monastery on January 5 or May 16,
according to Tibetan calendar, because on these days
embroidery of Sakyamuni is put on display for pilgrims to pay
their homage. This monastery is open from 9 AM in the morning
till 4 PM in the evening. The monastery is quite accessible
from the city center. You have to take a bus up to Samye Ferry
located at the banks of Tsangpo river. From there take a boat
cruise or cross the river through the bridge. Though boat ride
is obviously more interesting with full of scenic beauty. From
the other end of the river you will get special Monastery bus
service that will take you to the doorstep of the monastery.
By paying a small amount you can enter the Samye Monastery. It
is advisable to take a flashlight along, as few portions of
the hall can be quite dark. We suggest you to spend at least
half day to explore this pilgrimage center completely. The
sight not only holds an attraction of a pilgrimage destination
but is equally known for its breathtaking architecture. |
