The Wooden Block Inscriptions of Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda are a valuable collection of documents engraved on wooden blocks dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries. These are preserved at Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda, one of the most famous pagodas in Bắc Giang, which played a significant role in Vietnamese Buddhism, especially during the Trần dynasty. The collection was recognized by UNESCO as a World Documentary Heritage in 2015.
1.Origins and History:
Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda has a history of nearly 1,000 years, established during the Lý dynasty and flourishing under the Trần dynasty. It is home to a large collection of wooden blocks containing important Buddhist works, carved onto wood.
The Wooden Block Inscriptions of Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda consist of wooden blocks engraved with Buddhist sutras, sermons, and literary works, created by monks and Zen masters of the Trần era to preserve and spread Buddhist teachings.
2.Content:
The collection mainly includes engraved versions of Buddhist sutras, sermons, and documents related to the development of Buddhism in Vietnam.
Some of the notable engravings include the “Kinh Di Đà” (Amitabha Sutra) and “Kinh Đại Tập” (The Great Compilation Sutra), which were engraved by Zen masters and Buddhist scholars to pass on this knowledge to future generations.
The Wooden Block Inscriptions also contain sermons, teachings on Buddhist philosophy, as well as famous literary works from this period.
3.Materials and Craftsmanship:
These wooden blocks are carved using traditional handcraft methods. The wood is carefully selected to ensure it is durable and will preserve the carvings for centuries.
The Hán and Nôm characters, along with Buddhist illustrations, are meticulously carved, showcasing the skill of the artisans and the dedication to preserving Buddhist teachings.
The craftsmanship in the engravings not only reflects the talent of the artisans but also helps preserve the cultural and religious values of Vietnamese Buddhism during that period.
4.Cultural and Religious Significance:
The Wooden Block Inscriptions of Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda are not only valuable documents for Buddhist studies but also have great cultural and historical value for Vietnam. They contain knowledge about religion, philosophy of life, and the customs of the Vietnamese people of the past.
These inscriptions serve as rich sources for researchers in history, religion, literature, and art.
The collection also plays a crucial role in studying the history of Vietnamese Buddhism, particularly during the Trần dynasty, with outstanding Buddhist works by Zen masters such as Zen Master Vĩnh Nghiêm.
5.Conservation and UNESCO Recognition:
The Wooden Block Inscriptions of Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda were officially recognized as a World Documentary Heritage by UNESCO in 2015. It is one of the rare wooden block collections in the world that has been preserved almost intact over many centuries.
UNESCO’s recognition has enhanced the value of this collection and contributed to its preservation and promotion of its historical and cultural significance.
6.Current Conservation Status:
The Wooden Block Inscriptions are currently preserved at Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda in Bắc Giang. These blocks are not only kept in good physical condition but are also studied and restored by experts to maintain their authenticity.
Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda is now a destination for history enthusiasts, Buddhists, and cultural researchers, particularly those interested in studying this invaluable wooden block heritage.
