White Horse Temple Introduction
Baima Temple, located in Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, was established in 1968 (the 57th year of the Republic of China). The building covers an area of approximately 688 ping and primarily enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha, along with the Three Western Saints as secondary deities. It is named Baima Temple to commemorate the Baima Temple in Luoyang, which is considered the starting point of Buddhism in the Central Plains. The temple was initially founded by two nuns, Dharma Master Dagu and Master Jingding, who led a group to establish a Buddhist monastery. They first borrowed three rooms at the current site from believers for the initial purpose of self-cultivation. Later, with donations from believers, they purchased the mountain in 1976 (the 65th year of the Republic of China) and began construction. In 1980 (the 69th year), they built the Five View Hall, and in 1984 (the 73rd year), they started constructing the Amitabha Hall, which was completed after two years due to flooding. In 1993 (the 82nd year), they began erecting the Mahaviro Hall. The temple's main characteristic focuses on the Pure Land sect of Buddhism, with chanting as the primary practice method, aiming to promote the Pure Land teachings. Currently, Master Dagu serves as the abbot. In addition to providing occasional assistance to the poor and those in difficulty, the Baima Cultural and Educational Foundation was established in March 1997 (the 86th year) to provide scholarships and organize lectures.
