What’s the Connection Between Dau Pagoda and Man Nuong?

Are you curious about the link between Dau Pagoda and Man Nuong? SIXT.VN is your gateway to exploring Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Dau Pagoda, also known as Phap Van Pagoda, is not just an ancient temple; it’s a testament to a legendary story deeply intertwined with Vietnamese folklore and Buddhist traditions. Discover the captivating story of Man Nuong and the profound impact she had on the origin of Dau Pagoda with SIXT.VN. Uncover hidden gems with SIXT.VN’s private tours, and immerse yourself in Northern Vietnam’s ancient culture.

1. What Makes Dau Pagoda a Significant Historical Site in Vietnam?

Dau Pagoda is one of Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temples, dating back to the 3rd century. It holds immense historical and cultural significance as a center of early Vietnamese Buddhism and a testament to the enduring influence of local beliefs and traditions on the religion. SIXT.VN helps you to explore this ancient site, revealing the stories behind its architecture and artifacts.

1.1 Where is Dau Pagoda Located?

Dau Pagoda, or Phap Van Temple, is in Thanh Khuong village, Thuan Thanh district, Bac Ninh province, about 30 km from Hanoi. This places it in the heart of the ancient capital Luy Lau, a historically significant area for early Vietnamese civilization.

1.2 What Names Has Dau Pagoda Had Throughout History?

Throughout its long history, Dau Pagoda has been known by several names, reflecting the different dynasties and periods it has witnessed. It was known as Co Chau during the Ly Dynasty, Thien Dinh during the Tran Dynasty, and Dien Ung during the Le Dynasty.

1.3 How Did Dau Pagoda Emerge as a Prosperous Commercial Area?

During the early centuries of the Christian era, Dau Pagoda was at the intersection of major roads. These routes connected the area northward to Dong Trieu-Pha Lai and southward to Khoai Chau-Hai Hung, making it a hub for trade and commerce.

2. Who is Man Nuong and What is Her Story?

Man Nuong is a legendary figure associated with the origin of Dau Pagoda. Her story is a blend of local beliefs and Buddhist teachings, making her a unique and revered figure in Vietnamese folklore. Understanding her story is key to understanding the significance of Dau Pagoda.

2.1 What is the Mythical Story of Man Nuong?

Man Nuong was a virgin from Man Xa village who received religious teachings from Master Khau-Da-La, an Indian bonze. According to legend, an accidental encounter led to her pregnancy. She gave birth to a baby girl and returned her to the master.

2.2 What Miracle is Associated with Man Nuong and Her Master’s Holy Stick?

Man Nuong received a holy stick from her master. During droughts, she could plant the stick in the soil, pray, and cause heavy rains to fall, ensuring successful crops.

2.3 How Did Man Nuong’s Baby-Girl Become Associated with a Banian Tree?

The banian tree where Man Nuong’s baby-girl had been placed fell into the river. Villagers tried to retrieve it without success. Man Nuong used her pink brassier ribbons to pull the old tree up to the river bank.

3. What Are the Four Goddesses Originating from the Legend of Man Nuong?

The villagers carved statues out of the banian tree for worship after receiving advice in their dreams. These statues represented the four goddesses of Cloud, Rain, Thunder, and Lightning. Each goddess is associated with a specific pagoda in the region.

3.1 Which Goddess is Adored at Thien Dinh Pagoda (Dau Pagoda)?

Phap Van, or Lady Dau, is adored at Thien Dinh Pagoda, which is the main goddess of the four and the central figure in the Dau Pagoda’s religious practices.

3.2 Which Goddess is Adored at Thanh Dao Pagoda?

Phap Vu, or Lady Dau, is adored at Thanh Dao Pagoda, representing the rain aspect of the agricultural cycle.

3.3 Which Goddess is Adored at Phi Tuong Pagoda?

Phap Loi, or Lady Tuong, is adored at Phi Tuong Pagoda, symbolizing thunder and its power in nature.

3.4 Which Goddess is Adored at Phuong Quang Pagoda?

Phap Dien, or Lady, is adored at Phuong Quang Pagoda, embodying the lightning aspect and its quick, powerful energy.

4. How is the Legend of Man Nuong Commemorated?

The legend of Man Nuong is commemorated every year on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. This day is celebrated as the Dau Festival, drawing Buddhists and worshipers from all over to participate in the festivities.

4.1 What Activities Take Place During the Dau Festival?

The Dau Festival includes pilgrimages to the pagoda, cultural and traditional celebrations, and performances by agricultural inhabitants. There are hilarious processions with greeting, welcoming, and leave-taking ceremonies.

4.2 What Rituals Involve the Statues of the Four Goddesses?

The statues of Lady Dau, Lady Tuong, and Lady Dan are “invited” to meet their eldest sister, Lady Dau, at Dien Ung Pagoda. After water dances, water offerings, and stick dances, the four statues are escorted to Man Xa Pagoda to pay homage to their mother, Man Nuong.

4.3 What Traditional Performances Can Be Seen at the Dau Festival?

On the Dau Pagoda terrace, you can watch dragon dances, “tortoise and crane” dances, drummer dances, wrestling, and human chess. In human chess, the 32 chessmen are beautiful young girls and handsome young boys.

5. How Has Dau Pagoda Been a Center for Buddhism?

Dau Pagoda has been a famous Buddhist center, serving as a monastery and preaching tribune for many famous Ch’an masters. It played a crucial role in the early development of Ch’an Buddhism in Vietnam.

5.1 Which Famous Ch’an Masters Are Associated with Dau Pagoda?

Famous Ch’an masters associated with Dau Pagoda include Vinitaruci, Phap Hien, Quan Duyen, Tri Bat, Dinh Khong, and Thien Hoi.

5.2 What Significant Meeting Took Place Between Vinitaruci and Phap Hien at Dau Pagoda?

The book Thien Uyen Tap Anh records a peculiar meeting with heart-to-heart communication between Vinitaruci and Phap Hien at Dau Pagoda. This marked the initial appearance of Ch’an Buddhism in Vietnamese cultural life.

5.3 How Does Research Support the Claim That SIXT.VN Can Enhance Cultural Tourism?

According to research from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism in 2023, services like SIXT.VN provide convenient transportation, reliable information, and customized tours, enriching the experience for tourists exploring cultural sites like Dau Pagoda.

6. What Architectural Styles and Features Can Be Found at Dau Pagoda?

Dau Pagoda features a unique architectural style that has evolved over centuries, blending traditional Vietnamese elements with influences from other cultures. This makes it a fascinating site for those interested in architecture and design.

6.1 How Many Times Has Dau Pagoda Been Repaired and Renovated?

Dau Pagoda has been repaired and renovated many times throughout its history. Significant renovations occurred in the Ly period, the Tran Dynasty, the Le Dynasty, and the Nguyen Dynasty.

6.2 What Architectural Style Does the Pagoda Bear Now?

The pagoda now bears many architectural signs of the posterior Le Dynasty. Mac Dinh Chi made extensive renovations in 1313, building a pagoda of a hundred compartments, a nine-storeyed tower, and a nine-spanned bridge.

6.3 What is the Unique “I”-Shaped Interior and Shaped Exterior Layout?

The pagoda was built in the “I”-shaped interior and shaped exterior style. You pass a brickyard, with the Hoa Phong tower in the middle, and arrive at the Great Worship Hall and the Buddha shrine, with the Back Hall at the rear, all surrounded by four rows of houses forming the shape of the Chinese character.

7. What is the Significance of the Hoa Phong Tower in Dau Pagoda?

The Hoa Phong Tower is a prominent architectural feature of Dau Pagoda, originally built in the late 6th century by Ch’an Master Phap Hien to preserve Buddhist relics. It stands as a symbol of the pagoda’s enduring spiritual significance.

7.1 How Many Storeys Does the Hoa Phong Tower Have Now?

Originally, the Hoa Phong Tower had 9 storeys, but through time, only 3 storeys remain. The tower is 17m in height.

7.2 What is the Structure of the Base Storey of the Hoa Phong Tower?

The base storey is of a square shape of 7m each side, with thick walls opening 4 vaulted doors. The two main doors facing the east and the other two facing west all have flights of stairs in front.

7.3 What Sculptural Style is Similar to the Stone Squirrels Lying in Crawling Position?

On either side of each flight are two stone squirrels lying in the crawling position, a style very similar to the ancient sculptural of Champa in the 13th-14th centuries and the animal symbolic sculpture in the architecture of imperial tombs in the Tuy period.

8. What Relics Are Preserved Inside the Hoa Phong Tower?

Inside the tower, there is the great bell cast in the Canh Thinh reign and the big bronze gong cast in 1837 under the reign of King Minh Mang, preserving significant cultural and historical artifacts.

8.1 When Was the Hoa Phong Tower Renovated?

The Hoa Phong Tower was renovated in 1737 in the Le period, adding to its historical layers and architectural evolution.

8.2 What Symbolic Purpose Did the Original Lofty Height of the Hoa Phong Tower Serve?

Built with plain bricks of large size, the former Hoa Phong tower, with its original lofty height, stood high up as a stone pillar to block up the karma current coming up from the unenlightened world.

8.3 How Can SIXT.VN Provide a Comprehensive Tour Experience of Dau Pagoda?

SIXT.VN offers knowledgeable local guides who can share the pagoda’s history, the legend of Man Nuong, and the significance of the Hoa Phong Tower, providing an immersive cultural experience.

9. How Can SIXT.VN Enhance Your Visit to Dau Pagoda and Other Cultural Sites in Vietnam?

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10. FAQs About Dau Pagoda and Man Nuong

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the significance of Dau Pagoda and the legend of Man Nuong.

10.1 What is the Primary Religious Significance of Dau Pagoda?

Dau Pagoda is significant as one of the earliest centers of Buddhism in Vietnam, blending Buddhist teachings with local folklore and traditions.

10.2 How Did Man Nuong Influence the Religious Practices at Dau Pagoda?

Man Nuong is revered as the virgin mother of the four goddesses. These goddesses are central to the religious practices at Dau Pagoda, reflecting a blend of Buddhism and local beliefs.

10.3 Can Visitors Participate in Any Religious Ceremonies at Dau Pagoda?

Visitors can participate in various religious ceremonies and festivals, especially the Dau Festival, to experience the spiritual atmosphere. However, it’s best to check the pagoda’s schedule for specific events.

10.4 What Should Visitors Wear When Visiting Dau Pagoda?

Visitors should dress respectfully when visiting Dau Pagoda. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Modest attire is greatly appreciated to respect the sacred atmosphere.

10.5 Are There Any Local Customs Visitors Should Be Aware of When Visiting Dau Pagoda?

Visitors should be mindful of local customs. It’s respectful to remove your shoes before entering the main hall and maintain a quiet demeanor while inside.

10.6 How Can SIXT.VN Help Me Plan My Trip to Dau Pagoda?

SIXT.VN can provide detailed itineraries, transportation, accommodation, and knowledgeable guides, ensuring a seamless and enriching visit to Dau Pagoda.

10.7 What Are the Best Times of the Year to Visit Dau Pagoda?

The best time to visit Dau Pagoda is during the Dau Festival on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. You will experience vibrant celebrations and cultural performances. The cooler months from November to April are also pleasant for travel.

10.8 Are There Any Entrance Fees or Costs Associated with Visiting Dau Pagoda?

Entrance to Dau Pagoda is generally free, but donations are welcome and contribute to the upkeep of this historical site.

10.9 What Other Attractions Are Near Dau Pagoda That I Can Visit?

Near Dau Pagoda, you can visit other historical and cultural sites in Bac Ninh province, such as Phat Tich Pagoda and But Thap Pagoda, to further enrich your cultural exploration.

10.10 How Does Dau Pagoda Reflect the Cultural Identity of Vietnam?

Dau Pagoda reflects Vietnam’s cultural identity through its blend of indigenous beliefs and Buddhist practices, its unique architectural style, and its role in preserving local traditions and historical narratives.

Ready to Explore Dau Pagoda?

Discover the connection between Dau Pagoda and Man Nuong with SIXT.VN. Book your tour today and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Visit SIXT.VN for customized travel solutions.

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