I’ve been conflicted with the classifications of Buddhism. While it can be considered a religion in some aspects, its teachings feel more like an ideology than a faith. The simplicity and honesty of Buddhism is refreshing. Although reading about Buddhism is interesting, it’s worth going to see it in practice.
Recently, I visited Houston’s Teo Chew Temple. It is a temple in Vietnam with Cambodian-Chinese influence. My grandmother goes there every week. It certainly is. As she accompanied her, she explained the many functions of this location. A visitor’s first impression is the architecture. Every sign, pillar, and rooftop are decorated in bright colors of red and white. Initial curiosity at the complexity is a sign of my ignorance of Buddhism. I believed that minimalism was an aspect of Buddhism. Siddhartha explained how he transformed from being rich to living a simple life, free of extravagant pleasures (Trainor 28). It would be interesting to learn why Buddhism is so beautifully decorated. This is just one variation of Buddhism that I have seen. However, the patterns found in the temple’s largest chamber will be visible once the visitor enters the interior. The details and colors are vivid. We are greeted by the incense aroma. My grandmother said that each shrine is dedicated to a different goddess, with large statues. Each one represents a different virtue, like love or wealth. Because she planned to buy lottery tickets, she brought oranges along to the fortune shrine. It was fascinating to me how offerings left by people can be used by others in need. This is a remarkable example of selflessness and generosity. It also helps people who are less fortunate to visit the establishment. After my trip, I discovered that Teo Chew Temple belonged the Mahayama Buddhism (Titthara in 2003). I’m still curious about the presence of so many gods. Because I feel that Buddhism is more about understanding oneself than having higher beings get involved in one’s journey towards enlightenment. This is part of Buddhism, or the Mahayama Sect of Buddhism. Despite the large room and number of monks present, the place was very quiet. The tranquility likely creates a peaceful space that allows for meditation.
Neben dem Hauptraum gab es weitere Seitenwege und Zimmer, whose designs were reminiscent its Chinese roots. Another structure was home to the memories and remains of many ancestors. Although I never actually entered that room (Peggy 2017), it was filled with photos and tributes to loved ones. While it wasn’t something that I had considered before, it is a topic I am now thinking about. Although it’s difficult to answer, I find it interesting that they are so prominently featured in the event of a rebirth. What happens to them if they are reborn? Being reborn seems to be the most severe way to break this connection. It could be cultural. My grandmother explained to me that she could request blessings and luck charms from monks in the area. To bring good fortune, you can hang small posters with deities on them around your house. This temple has been influenced by Chinese culture, and I find every nuance of Buddhism fascinating.
I was curiouser than I was when I first entered Teo Chew Temple. I was intrigued by the differences between Buddhist texts and temple records, which prompted me to seek out more information about the philosophy of Buddhism. This topic is not only about sects and culture differences. There’s a lot more to discover. I know my understanding of Buddhism will increase as I gain more information.
