BaXian Mountain BaoLin Zen Temple Introduction
Songshan Village is located in the rural area of Minxiong, characterized by its vast land, mountains, and water, offering beautiful scenery. The old place names include Songzijiao, Songzigaociao, and Houshanzi Zhuang. The village has a rich religious activity, situated at the boundary between Houshanzi and Zhuqi Township, originally known to locals as Baxianshan. Baxianshan was once a desolate mountain area. When Master Guan Miao, the founder and abbot of Baolin Zen Temple, traveled southward to pay respects, he passed by Xiangjiao Mountain in Dalin, Chiayi, where it is said that a Bodhisattva manifested. Faithful believers guided the way and led the master to the current site, where a thatched hut was built in 1960. Through his diligent efforts, along with the assistance of Master Du Miao and the enthusiastic support of local villagers, a grand and magnificent Baolin Zen Temple was established in the wilderness. Surrounded by mountains and stunning scenery, Baolin Zen Temple covers approximately 0.67 hectares. It is dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha, set in a tranquil environment. Currently, there are seven to eight residents, four of whom are nuns. The temple also offers elderly care services, where healthy individuals who can contribute to the temple's chores may reside for free. Today, Baolin Zen Temple is presided over by Master Xingding, a female disciple of Master Guan Miao. She comes from a wealthy timber merchant family in Chiayi City and has devoted substantial effort and resources to expand the temple, attracting more devotees to come and pay their respects.
