Byodo-In Temple #1

by Mitch Shindelbower

Title

Byodo-In Temple #1

Artist

Mitch Shindelbower

Medium

Photograph

Description

The Byodo-In (平等院) Temple is a non-denominational temple located on the island of Oʻahu in Hawaiʻi at the Valley of the Temples. It was dedicated in August 1968 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaiʻi.[1] The temple is a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple at Uji in Kyoto prefecture of Japan.[2] Contrary to popular belief, it is not a functioning Buddhist temple in the proper sense as it does not host a resident monastic community nor an active congregation.[3] Inside the Byodo-In Temple is a 18 ft (5.5 m) statue of the Lotus Buddha, a wooden image depicting Amitabha.[2] It is covered in gold and lacquer. Outside is a three-ton, brass peace bell.[2] Surrounding the temple are large koi ponds that cover a total of two acres (8,000 m²). Around those ponds are lush Japanese gardens set against a backdrop of towering cliffs of the Ko'olau mountains. The gardens are home to sparrows and peacocks. The temple covers 11,000 sq ft (1,000 m2).[4]

The Byodo-In Temple is visited and used by thousands of worshippers from around the world. It welcomes people of all faiths to participate in its traditions. Apart from worship, the temple grounds are also used for weddings and office meetings.

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June 19th, 2018

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