Tzu Chi Jing Si Abode Introduction
The Jing Si Abode of Tzu Chi was established in the winter of 1969. Initially covering an area of over forty ping, it was funded by the founder Master Cheng Yen's mother's purchase of the land, which was then constructed in stages. At that time, Master Cheng Yen and the residents worked diligently to create products for payment, also rolling up their sleeves to join in the construction work. Over the years, due to aging buildings, leaks, or the needs of the organization, it has undergone ten expansions to achieve its current appearance. The Jing Si Abode serves as a place for Tzu Chi monastics to practice, emphasizing quietness and tranquility, therefore it is not a typical tourist attraction and does not have signposts. Near the 195 km mark on Provincial Highway No. 9, one can see Guang'an Temple, and enter via a small road opposite, continuing for about 300 meters to reach the parking lot. After alighting, follow the path through the maple forest, take a right turn and proceed to arrive at the destination with gray tiles and white walls. The order of the buildings from outside to inside includes: the Main Hall, Guanyin Hall, New Lecture Hall, Monks' Quarters, Nuns' Quarters, Male Quarters, Dining Hall, Office, Vegetable Garden, and Fruit Orchard. Visitors can follow the small path through the maple forest to reach the area, where they will face the elegantly simple Main Hall of the Abode. Architecturally, the triangle-shaped support formed by "人" at the inner edge of the roof, with three sets of circular columns at the center and sides of the outer roof, expresses the imagery of the Three Jewels. The four main supporting columns outside symbolize the "Four Immeasurable Minds" of compassion, mercy, joy, and equanimity, offering the best explanation of Tzu Chi's practice of Buddha Dharma in the world, wishing for Bodhisattvas to embody in humanity and for Buddha Dharma to be integrated into daily life.
