kuan Yin Temple

     As we were traveling to visit the Foster Botanic Gardens, we happened upon yet another hidden gem (literally next door to the gardens); the KuanYin Temple. This oldest Buddhist temple in Hawaii (established in 1880), is dedicated to Kuan Yin ( an abbreviated name for "One who sees and hears the cries of the human world"). She is not a Buddhist goddess, but rather a "budhistatta", or one who does delay elevation to nirvana in order to save suffering beings. Devotees of Kuan Yin trace the origins of their religion back to the twelfth century. The temple's architecture is in the traditional Chinese style of red-painted pillars and a green roof. While modest in size, compared to other Buddhist temples we've visited, it none-the -less is beautiful. We were fortunate enough to visit this temple at a relatively quiet period, when Tali, the priestess, could spend time with us and explain the ins-and -outs of their devotion. I suppose in Christian religions, Kuan Yin would be called "a patron saint", as she is noted for providing comfort for women, the troubled, the sick, the lost, and the unfortunate. Kuan Yin is also said to be the protector of farmers, travelers, and seafarers. A busy gal! According to Tali, there are temples all over the world dedicated to Kuan Yin. We really enjoyed the visit and felt much safer knowing that this "...slender and graceful..." Buddhist was watching out for us.

This sign on the sidewalk is what caught our attention. Situated next door to the Foster Botanic Gardens, we felt it would be worthwhile spending some time looking at it. We were not disappointed.

Compared to other Buddhist temples we've visited, this one was not very large (i.e. only one room)...

...never-the-less, it was still fascinating.

Tali was gracious enough to spend a half-hour with us in order to show us around and explain some of her religion.

The donation of fruits plays an important part in their devotions. Tali explained that the end of each day, she gives the fruit away to the poor and homeless.

As with other Buddhist temples we've visited, the burning of incense is part of the prayer ritual. Thus, incense pots, like this one, are found everywhere throughout the temple.