| In
the Guanyin Hall there is a bronze sculpture of
Guanyin in 2 meters high made in the Ming dynasty.
Avalokitesvara has always been the Bodhisattva
frequently worshipped by Chinese Buddhist disciples,
therefore, it is one of the main worshipping places
for worshippers. The usual portrait of Guanyin
is beautiful with womanly features, a flower garland
on the head, bright and colorful clothes, just
like a lady in ancient China. However in the legend
Avalokitesvara is a man, naturally, people may
ask whether Guanyin is a man or a woman. According
to the Buddhist principles, Bodhisattva is a saint
with no leak (i.e. with pure and passionless wisdom),
and a great Dharma body with no such distinction
of a man or a woman. In order to help people in
their salvation, the Bodhisattva can appear in
various forms.
See: The Guanyin
Paintings in the Song, Ming and Qing Dynasties.
The
teahouse on the side of the Hall is a place for
tea and break for tourists and worshippers.
The
Vegetarian Restaurant provides vegetarian food
for the pilgrims and visitors at home and abroad.
Usually it serves noodles, vegetarian dishes and
cakes. The vegetarian food in the Jade Buddha
Monastery with different designs and cooking techniques
attracts customers widely and enjoys a long history.
Every Autumn Festival, the restaurant also provides
vegetarian moon cakes to people. Because of its
exquisite flavor and choice ingredients, they
are in great demand in successive years.
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