Bajian Mountain Baolin Zen Temple Introduction
Songshan Village is located in the outskirts of Minxiong, with vast land that features mountains and water, creating beautiful scenery. The old names include: Songzi Jiao, Songzai Jiao Zhuang, and Houshanzi Zhuang. The village is vibrant with religious activities, situated at the intersection of Houshanzi and Zhuqi Township, originally referred to by locals as Baixian Mountain. Baixian Mountain was once a barren mountain forest. During the time when Master Guanmiao (the founding abbot of Baolin Zen Temple) made a pilgrimage from north to south, while passing through Xiangjiao Mountain in Dalin, Chiayi, it is said that a bodhisattva appeared and showed miraculous signs, leading the followers to guide the master to the current site. In the 49th year of the Republic of China (1960 AD), a thatched hut was initially built. Through his hard work and the assistance of Master Du Miaoni, along with the enthusiastic support from local villagers, everyone contributed in money and effort, and finally built the magnificent Baolin Zen Temple in the desolate mountains. This area is surrounded by mountains, boasting beautiful scenery. Baolin Zen Temple covers an area of about two hectares, enshrining Shakyamuni Buddha, and is nestled in a tranquil environment. Currently, there are seven to eight residents, four of whom are monastics, all nuns. The temple also provides accommodation for the elderly who can help with the temple chores and live here for free if they are physically capable. Currently, Baolin Zen Temple is hosted by the disciple of Guanmiao, Master Hsingding. She comes from a wealthy timber family in Chiayi City and has devoted a lot of energy and effort to expand the scale of the temple, attracting more believers to come here to worship and walk the pathways.
