The Ma Nhai Stele at Ngũ Hành Sơn in Da Nang is a collection of prominent stone steles with significant historical and cultural value. These steles, carved into the natural rock faces within the caves of Ngũ Hành Sơn, are considered an important Buddhist heritage. They reflect the religious practices, beliefs, and ceremonies that took place in the area during the feudal period.
1.History and Origin
The Ma Nhai Stele is believed to date from the 18th to 19th centuries and was carved into the rock faces of the Ngũ Hành Sơn caves. These texts are primarily written in Chinese characters and Nôm script, describing Buddhist festivals, ceremonies, and significant social events of the time. They are known as “Ma Nhai” steles due to their carving on rock faces within caves, which were untouched by human construction.
2.Content and Cultural Value
The inscriptions on the Ma Nhai Stele provide valuable insights into Buddhist rituals, the development of the Ngũ Hành Sơn Buddhist center, and the influence of cultural exchanges. They also showcase traditional stone carving art combined with religious and folk beliefs. The Ma Nhai Stele serves as a testament to the development of Buddhism in Central Vietnam and is a precious source for scholars researching Vietnamese Buddhist history and culture.
3.Heritage Value
Due to its uniqueness, the Ma Nhai Stele at Ngũ Hành Sơn has been recognized as a cultural heritage of Vietnam and included in UNESCO’s Asia-Pacific Memory of the World Program. The preservation and study of these steles not only help maintain Vietnam’s cultural values but also attract tourists and researchers interested in history and culture.
4.Current Preservation Status
Currently, the Ma Nhai Stele is preserved and studied at Ngũ Hành Sơn and has become an essential part of Da Nang’s heritage. Preservation and restoration efforts are ongoing to ensure that these stone steles remain valuable for future generations. Research and preservation projects, along with tours to the site, provide a deeper understanding of Buddhism and contribute to enhancing the cultural heritage of Vietnam.
The Ma Nhai Stele at Ngũ Hành Sơn stands as a vibrant testament to the harmonious blend of nature, culture, and spirituality, reflecting the importance of Ngũ Hành Sơn in the historical development of Buddhist culture in Central Vietnam.
