Ba Chua Xu Nui Sam Temple is one of the most prominent spiritual relics in An Giang, known for its mystical beauty and strong religious beliefs. Located at the foot of Nui Sam (Sam Mountain), Chau Doc, the temple not only serves as a pilgrimage site for locals but also holds significant cultural and historical value.
1. Ba Chua Xu Temple – The Premier Spiritual Destination in the Mekong Delta
Ba Chua Xu Temple is situated in Nui Sam ward, Chau Doc city, An Giang province, at the foot of Sam Mountain, a sacred mountain of this region. The temple is a famous pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to offer incense, pray, and worship, especially during the festival seasons.
2. The Sacred Legend of Ba Chua Xu
According to legend, the statue of Ba Chua Xu was discovered on the summit of Sam Mountain and initially could not be moved. Only when a virgin girl from the village participated were they able to bring the statue down from the mountain. Because of this, the locals believe that Ba Chua Xu is a manifestation of divine protection, guarding the village throughout the ages.
3. Architecture of Ba Chua Xu Temple
The temple’s architecture stands out with its curved, green-tiled roofs, reflecting a harmony between traditional Vietnamese design and the solemn characteristics of a sacred worship place. The temple has the shape of the Vietnamese character “Quoc” (Nation), symbolizing the spirit of national defense. Inside, the statue of Ba Chua Xu, crafted from solid green stone and standing 1.2 meters tall, exudes majesty on its ornate altar.
4. The Vía Ba Chua Xu Festival at Nui Sam
One of the most notable aspects of Ba Chua Xu Temple is the Vía Ba Chua Xu Festival, which takes place from the 23rd to the 27th of the lunar calendar’s fourth month each year. This is the largest spiritual festival in the Mekong Delta, attracting people from all over the country. The festival includes many traditional activities such as:
– Procession of the statue of Ba Chua Xu from the summit of Sam Mountain to the temple.
– Solemn ceremonial rites.
– Dragon dance, boat races, and various other vibrant cultural activities.
The festival is not only an occasion for prayer and respect but also an opportunity to honor the traditional cultural values of the Mekong Delta.
5. Religious Beliefs and Spiritual Significance
Ba Chua Xu Temple is where locals and visitors come to seek blessings for wealth, health, and prosperity. People believe that Ba Chua Xu is highly sacred, always ready to protect and help those who sincerely pray. Hence, the worship of Ba Chua Xu has become deeply ingrained in the spiritual life of the people of this region and has become an essential cultural feature of An Giang.
6. Nearby Attractions
Besides Ba Chua Xu Temple, visitors can also explore several other famous landmarks in the area, including:
– Tay An Pagoda: A pagoda with a unique architecture that blends Vietnamese and Indian styles.
– Thoai Ngoc Hau Mausoleum: The final resting place of General Thoai Ngoc Hau, who made significant contributions to the development and defense of An Giang province.
– Cave Pagoda: An ancient pagoda with many legends tied to the local history.
Additionally, Chau Doc Market is a popular destination known for its regional specialties like fish sauce, dried goods, and tropical fruits, offering visitors a taste of the Mekong Delta’s rich cultural experiences.
