Niet BanTinh Xa is also known as Chua Phat Nam or
the Pagoda of the Lying Buddha. The pagoda is 3 km from town and
sits on the side of Nui Nho mountain facing the ocean. Work began
on the pagoda in 1969 and was completed in 1974.
This is probably the most beautiful pagoda in Vung Tau for its
many intricate architectural details and the granite work around
the pagoda. There is a flag tower standing 21 m high in front of
the temple covered by ceramic tiles.
Perching atop the
tower is a Lotus, signifying Buddhist purity. There are 42 steps
leading to the Lotus signifying the first 42 pages of the Buddhist
Sutra which made their way to Vietnam in the 2nd century.The main area of the pagoda is built in the likeness of the garden
in which Buddha entered Nirvana. Here lies a 12 m statue of Buddha
overlaid with marble.
The gate of the garden is guarded by two gods, Ong Thien (God of
Goodness) and Ong Ac (God of Evil). Standing in wait below the
sleeping Buddha is the likeness of his closest disciples.
To the rear of the temple is the boat Bat Nha built of concrete to
signify Buddhism as a craft in which mankind can escape Be Kho or
Sea of Sorrow. In the upper level hangs the giant bronze bell Dai
Hong Chung 3.5 m high and weighing 3.5 tons.
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