讀後心得

Kōbō Daishi, known posthumously as "Kōbō Daishi," holds a prestigious position in Japan, having founded the Shingon school and the first public school, and is also referred to as one of the "Three Brushes." His faith still attracts many devotees today, particularly during the "Sōmiyama Offering" ceremony held in Mount Kōya. The "Taipei Tianhou Temple" in Taiwan has historical ties with Kōbō Daishi and serves as an important center of faith, hidden in the bustling urban area, allowing visitors to enjoy moments of tranquility. The local community also preserves the religious culture from the Japanese colonial period, drawing pilgrims to embark on the "Taipei Henro" journey, enabling them to experience the charm of religion and the harmony of life along the way.

The posthumous title "弘法大師" (Kōbō Daishi) holds a revered position in Japan, uniquely embodying the title of "Master." He excelled in calligraphy and is recognized as one of Japan's "Three Great Calligraphers." He founded Japan's first public school and the Shingon sect of Buddhism. To this day, many believe that he is still alive, praying for world peace and human happiness. Consequently, at Koya-san in Japan, the "Shōmai Offering" ceremony is held twice daily, where devotees, regardless of inclement weather, present food offerings to 弘法大師 (Kōbō Daishi). This faith has steadily strengthened, its influence is truly far-reaching, and the experience of the Shikoku Pilgrimage has become an international highlight. The connection between 弘法大師 (Kōbō Daishi) and Taiwan can be traced back to the "Taipei Tianhou Temple" located in Ximen District.

The "Taipei Tianhou Temple" is situated on the bustling Chengdu Road, mingling with rows of buildings. Although there are no grand archways or prominent temple doors, its presence seems like an orchid blooming amid the bustle, naturally showcasing the power of life. This place is not only a significant center of faith but also a holy ground in the city, allowing people to enjoy a rare moment of tranquility amidst the noise.

Upon entering the temple, the scenery inside reveals a hidden paradise. A peaceful and serene atmosphere pervades the surroundings, contrasting sharply with the external clamor. On each side of the garden, there are important clues: a statue of 弘法大師 (Kōbō Daishi) stands on the tiger side, while the dragon side boasts the first and second stone statues of the 88 temples of Shikoku in Taipei, representing 弘法大師's (Kōbō Daishi) religious beliefs and pilgrimage activities.

The "Kōbō Temple" has deep historical ties with the "Taipei Tianhou Temple." Although 弘法大師 (Kōbō Daishi) seems to have vanished with the passage of time, he has mysteriously reappeared in Taiwan's temples, collectively protecting the people of this land along with other deities. This story underscores the extraordinary nature of the "Taipei Tianhou Temple," making it a spiritual fortress for the region. During the Japanese rule, the sacred sites of the 88 temples of Shikoku in Taipei were established by followers of the Shingon sect, designed based on 弘法大師's (Kōbō Daishi) footsteps, selecting various locations in Taipei City to place stone Buddhas as substitutes for Dharma centers. The first two were indeed at the Kōbō Temple, and this pilgrimage allowed religious faith to truly permeate people's daily lives.

The "Taipei Linji Guoguang Zen Temple" is the only officially named "Guoguang" temple in Taiwan. Although many of the originally established 88 stone Buddhas have since disappeared, "Linji Guoguang Zen Temple" in Yuanshan currently has the highest concentration, showcasing nine stone Buddhas at once. This temple also retains its wooden structures from the Japanese occupation period, featuring a massive scale. While many may feel unfamiliar with "Linji School," the famous line "Without experiencing the biting cold, how can one smell the fragrant plum blossoms?" originates from a master of the Linji School.

The entrance's old bell tower gate is distinct, similar to other temples, yet it highlights a unique architectural style from Japan's Edo period. A closer look at the roof's cylindrical tiles reveals historical crests, while the tiles on the opposite side bear the character "镇," mainly used for exorcism and wind suppression. The "lock drain" design at the eaves not only serves drainage purposes but also adds visual and auditory enjoyment during rainy days.

By ascending the stone steps of the back mountain, one can reach the Universal Spirit Pagoda, where nine stone Buddhas are arranged in a fan shape. Additionally, the stupa of Kodama Gentaro stands here, rich in historical significance, offering a panoramic view of the entire Taipei Basin. The early ancestors described Yuanshan as "a flat land rising like a dragon," a very fitting metaphor that has earned it the reputation of "Taiwan's first metropolitan park."

Ending this pilgrimage journey at "Beitou Puji Temple" is perfect. Besides its picturesque scenery, hot springs and culinary delights are highlights of the trip, allowing one to relieve the fatigue accumulated along the way. This arrangement seems to foreshadow the journey of life: moving towards prosperity and then returning to simplicity, rising from valleys to peaks, and regardless of the changes experienced, maintaining inner stability. This encapsulates the secret of the "Taipei Henro" and the charm of being accompanied by 弘法大師 (Kōbō Daishi) along the way.

Set in a serene environment, "Beitou Puji Temple" showcases a simple yet solemn atmosphere, allowing one to sincerely feel its unique charm. The decorations in the main hall display elegance distinct from ordinary Buddhist temples while retaining the intricacies of Japanese architecture. Behind the altar in the main hall is the "Tamaguchi Kannon," an important symbol of faith in the Beitou area, with a mysterious story behind it. The recreation of the 88th statue, Yakushi Nyorai, is also a highlight in the "Taipei New Shikoku Henro" experience activity. Starting from Taipei Tianhou Temple and ending at Beitou Puji Temple, this pilgrimage route is finally restored in its entirety.

Since ancient times, this path has attracted countless pilgrims. This sacred journey conveys the beauty of returning to the initial purpose of life. Let us embrace this incredible journey along the footprints of the Master, without questioning the reasons and purposes.