Vietnam: Buddhist arhat (saint) at Tay Phuong Pagoda, Ha Tay Province, near Hanoi

Tay Phuong Pagoda lies about 24 miles (38km) west of Hanoi, and some 4 miles (6km) to the west of Thay Pagoda, hence its name, which means ‘Western Pagoda’. Perched on top of a hill said to resemble a buffalo, Tay Phuong is a small temple dating originally from the 8th century which is chiefly notable for its collection of more than 70 fine jackfruit wood statues including figures from both the Buddhist and Confucian pantheons.

Arhat, in Buddhism, signifies a spiritual practitioner who has realized certain high stages of attainment. The implications of the term vary based on the respective schools and traditions.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia