Bodhisattva Temple Introduction
Puzza Temple is located in Dali District, Taichung City. The architectural appearance does not feature the palace-style gabled roofs, intricately carved beams, or glazed tiles customary in religious temples, but instead adopts a minimalist open concrete language that adheres to the essence of simplicity. The main entrance is designed with the concept of "retreat," allowing part of the building line to yield and accommodating an old plum tree alongside the road, under which stones are provided for visitors to rest; above the door is inscribed "Peaceful Living," inviting guests to "return to the Bodhisattva’s home," akin to "returning to one’s own home" for a tranquil residence. Entering the temple, the phrase "Take Care of Your Feet" beside the path serves not only as a reminder but also conveys the Buddhist meaning of "being grounded and walking the right path." Crossing a small bridge leads to "The Other Shore of Bliss," where the "Path of Seeking the Way" beneath is the core concept of Puzza Temple’s design, connecting the first to the third floor through a singular route: one turn leads to the bells, the second to the Bodhisattva Hall, and the third to reflect on the path traveled—interpreting the layers of mindset in the process of seeking the way, with each turn signifying determination and decision. Within the courtyard, flowing water reflects the sky, presenting a dreamlike illusion; the pond with lotus flowers and swimming fish embodies vitality; the mottled shadows of trees above contrast with the seated Buddha below, who smiles gently as he realizes enlightenment. "The root of the mind of enlightenment is compassion, and skillful means is ultimate," various Bodhisattvas in relaxed postures are harmoniously placed within the temple, representing the nature of all sentient beings. Puzza Temple "introduces wind and light into every space," allowing sound and breeze to flow throughout the areas. Stepping outside feels the changes in weather; returning indoors resonates with the fluctuations of one’s heart—connecting the individual with nature, stitching coexistence, dialogue, and listening to each other, rhythmically operating with the season's timing, experiencing life’s conversations between heaven and humanity through the transitions of morning, dusk, and seasons, nurturing a harmonious balance between humanity and nature, buildings and environment. Inside, warm wood serves as the medium between "people" and "walls." The first floor is decorated with painted works embodying Puzza Temple's philosophy, alongside the Buddhist saying "Rely on self, rely on dharma, do not rely on others"; on the second floor in the Bodhisattva Hall, one is greeted by ancient Bodhisattva sculptures and large glass windows behind, with old elm trees extending branches that change with the seasons; the left side of the third floor is a practice area for monks, not open to the public; the right side features a setting with tables and chairs, offering Heart Sutras, blank papers, and pens for visitors to "slow down, breathe deeply," and "write scriptures"; the intention of "writing" instead of "copying" is to encourage visitors to not only set aside mundane matters but also to reflect sincerely, emphasizing that "the world of the heart is the largest." Abbot Huiguang advocates that "to practice in life is to live without separation from practice"—in Puzza Temple, the architecture is understated, the spaces are simplistic, and the environment is unpretentious— "because of simplicity, richness arises." The architect states, "All moving architecture has its history," and within the temporal flow of Puzza Temple, we consolidate our thoughts, tranquil the heart, stand firmly on the ground, observe with ease, and perceive the arising of conditions in an instant. (Textual information referenced from Banmutang's official website and Puzza Temple's fan page)
