China: Bodhisattva Puxian in the Brick Hall, Wannian Si (Long Life Monastery), Emeishan (Mount Emei), Sichuan Province

Bodhisattva Puxian (the man on the white elephant) also known as Samantabhadra, is the protector of Mount Emei). Samantabhadra is a Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism associated with Buddhist practice and meditation. In China he is associated with action.

Wannian Si (Long Life Temple) dates originally from the 4th century CE, but underwent major reconstruction in the 9th century. However, only one building remains from the Ming Dynasty (1601), the Brick Hall. This is the oldest temple on the mountain.

At 3,099 metres (10,167 ft), Mt. Emei is the highest of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. The patron bodhisattva of Emei is Samantabhadra, known in Chinese as Puxian. 16th and 17th century sources allude to the practice of martial arts in the monasteries of Mount Emei.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia