The Origin of the FivePeaksBronze Statues of Manjushri at WuTaiShan, China

Amidst the serenity of the Shanxi province sits the majestic WuTaiShan .This spectacular creation of natureis the most eminent amongst the four prominent mountains in China. Pronounced by Buddha Shakyamuniand depictedin the sutra as an abode of Manjushri, WuTaiShanis not only adored by the Chinese, but known worldwide.

Also known as QingLiangShan (literally meaning “CoolingMountain”),thisManjushri abode is often engulfed in a sea of clouds. Its five peaks stand stoically, flanged by thousands of lower peaks from surrounding mountains.

The peaks of WuTaiShan used to housenumerous Buddhist temples, statues and sutras in its prime.Today, while the temples at its foot retain their former glory, those at the peaks of WuTaiShan are sadly reduced to bare derelicts.

For centuries, men have resided on this blessed landofBuddha. As the country now prospers, it is a rare but appropriate moment to put the wheel of Dharma into motion again.

It is thus with utmost sincerity that we extend our invitation to all, to generate goodwill byrepaying Buddha’s kindness to us. We hope torevive the sanctuary within WuTaiShan by constructing five statues of Manjushri, one at each of its five peaks, for sentient beings all around the world to take refuge and to pray.

As the construction of the statues will bea massive and difficult project, we hope that we may receivethe support of the public. We would like to sincerely request for sponsorship of the WuTaiShan statues,in order that WuTaiShan may regain its grandeur.We thank you for your support.

WuTaiShan Buddhist Association

ShanxiProvinceWuTaiShanFivePeaks Manjushri Statues Construction Committee


Western Plateau – Lion-roar Manjushri

WuTaiShan

WuTaiShan is the best-known amongstthe four famous mountains in China. It is the abode of Manjushri. From a mountain range, the five peaks of WuTaiShan soar majestically through the clouds and end in flat, plateau-like planes.Thus,the name WuTaiShan (“FivePlateauMountain” in Chinese).

Perennially coveredin ice and snow, WuTaiShan is also known as QingLiangShan (literally meaning“CoolingMountain”). Most of its five peaks are located within the WuTai region of Shanxi. The north peak,YeDou, is the highest point in northern China at 3,058m.

The WuTai region is covered with mountain ranges and clear,flowing streams. Set against thegolden shrine, it forms a breathtaking viewbefitting of the Buddha land.

The first temples of WuTaiShan were built during the Eastern Han dynasty in the era of YongPing.Over the Northern Wei, Duo and Tang dynasties, WuTaiShan was further developed. In its prime, there were as many as 360 temples within and around itsfive mountain peaks.Tens of thousands of monks and nuns resided and prayed there. WuTaiShan’s fame quickly spread to the rest of the world.High monks from around the world traversed the land to pay respect and request for Dharma in its temples, leaving behind a long history of international friendship.

Central Plateau – JadeRockPeak

Since the Yuan dynasty, WuTaiShan has become the only place in China where Han Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism co-exist.During the Qing dynasty, emperors like Kangxi and Qianlong made pilgrimage trips to WuTaiShan, demonstrating the spirit of togetherness for China and its surrounding regions. The legend of WuTaiShan created a strong impact on the unity of the various ethnic groups in China. Today, the wisdom of Manjushri has spreadto the corners of the world. Pilgrims and tourists around the world continue to flock to WuTaiShan to experience its rich Buddhist culture. The lush Buddhist tradition of WuTaiShan contributes to the shared spiritual wealth of mankind, its existence advocating a world filled with peace and serenity.

Western Plateau – Hanging-moon Peak