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Let us introduce this great Buddha to you before you get a chance to
be there yourself! This Tian Tan Buddha is a large bronze statue of the
Buddha, located at Lantau Island, in Hong Kong. Also known as the Giant
Buddha, it is the world's tallest outdoor seated bronze Buddha! |
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The statue is located near Po Lin Monastery and symbolizes the harmonious
relationship between man and nature, people and religion. It is a major
center of Buddhism in Hong Kong, and is also a popular tourist attraction. |
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The
statue is named Tian Tan Buddha because its base is a model of Tian
Tan, the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. It is one of the five large
Buddha statues in China. The Giant Buddha statue sits peacefully on
a
lotus throne on top of a three-platform altar. It is surrounded by
eight smaller bronze statues representing gods or immortals.The majestic
figure of the Tian Tan Buddha took 10 years to complete.
Weighing 220 tonnes, it was unveiled in 1993 amid deep religious ceremonies. |
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The
Tian Tan Buddha appears serene and dignified. His right hand is raised,
representing the removal of affliction. His left hand lies on his
knee, signifying human happiness. The Buddha faces north, which is
unique among the great Buddha statues. Besides attracting Buddhists from
all over Asia, the magnificent figure with its compelling presence
almost instantly transformed the remote
Po Lin Monastery with its devout monks into a must on tourist schedules. |
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Besides
studying the massive statue there is also much to see and do at the
monastery itself with its various figures of Gods and other colorful
manifestations of aspects of the Buddhist religion. By the way, do
consider having a vegetarian lunch there! |
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If
you dare, place in your hands a bamboo cylinder containing a mass
of fortune sticks, and by shaking it carefully, one numbered stick
will finally fall to the ground. Match it with the relevant printed
Fortune Paper and learn what the Fates have in store for you. Good
luck! |
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