Labrang Monastery, nestled in Xiahe County of Gansu Province, is one of the
most significant centers of Tibetan Buddhism outside the Tibet Autonomous
Region.
Founded in 1709 by the first Jamyang Zhepa, Ngawang Tsondru, it belongs to the
Gelug school—also known as the Yellow Hat sect—established by Tsongkhapa. The
monastery sits at a cultural crossroads between Tibetan and Mongolian
influences, and historically served as both a religious and political hub in
the Amdo region. Its strategic location along the Daxia River made it a vital
monastic university and pilgrimage site, drawing thousands of monks and
devotees over the centuries.
Architecturally, Labrang Monastery is a sprawling complex that blends Tibetan
and Indian Vihara styles. It features 18 halls, six monastic colleges
(tratsang), a gilded stupa, and a vast sutra debate courtyard. At its peak,
the monastery housed nearly 4,000 monks, though modern numbers are capped at
around 1,800. The colleges specialize in esoteric Buddhism, medicine,
astrology, law, and theology, making Labrang a vibrant intellectual and
spiritual center. Visitors can witness monks engaged in intense scriptural
debates, often beginning their studies as early as 4 a.m. and continuing for
up to 15 hours a day.
One of Labrang’s most captivating features is its 3-kilometer prayer wheel
circuit—the longest in the world—with over 2,000 wheels that pilgrims turn in
reverent clockwise procession. The monastery also hosts several important
festivals throughout the year, including elaborate rituals and chanting
ceremonies that echo through the surrounding hills. Despite the challenges it
faced during the Cultural Revolution, Labrang has reemerged as a thriving
spiritual sanctuary, offering a deeply immersive experience into Tibetan
Buddhist tradition for both pilgrims and curious travelers alike.
|
Plan of Labrang Monastery
|
|
Prayer wheel circuit
The prayer wheel circuit, is one of the
most iconic and spiritually significant features of this Tibetan
Buddhist site.
-
Stretching approximately 3 kilometers, it is considered the longest
prayer wheel corridor in the world. The circuit encircles the
monastery and is lined with over 2,000 prayer wheels, each inscribed
with sacred Buddhist mantras. Pilgrims and visitors walk clockwise
along the path, spinning each wheel as they pass. This act is believed
to accumulate spiritual merit equivalent to reciting the prayers
aloud, making it especially meaningful for those who cannot read or
chant the scriptures themselves.
-
The experience of walking the circuit is deeply immersive. The
rhythmic clatter of spinning wheels, the scent of incense, and the
sight of devoted pilgrims create a powerful atmosphere of reverence
and reflection. Many locals complete the circuit daily, often with a
bowed head and quiet determination. Some even prostrate themselves
fully at intervals, a gesture of profound humility and devotion. The
circuit begins at the main entrance of the monastery and winds past
temples, stupas, and prayer halls, offering glimpses into the monastic
life and architectural beauty of Labrang.
-
Beyond its religious function, the prayer wheel circuit serves as a
cultural and communal space. It draws not only monks and pilgrims but
also curious travelers seeking insight into Tibetan traditions. During
major festivals, the circuit becomes a vibrant procession route,
filled with chanting, colorful robes, and ceremonial rituals. Whether
walked in solitude or shared with others, the path around Labrang
Monastery offers a rare chance to engage with centuries-old spiritual
practice in a setting that feels both timeless and alive.
|
|
Panorama of the ticket office square
|
|
Panorama of the main square of Labrang Monastery
|
|
Central Flagpole
In Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, the
central flagpole—often referred to as a "dhvaja" or victory banner—is a
deeply symbolic structure that represents the triumph of Buddhist
teachings over ignorance.
-
Traditionally placed in the main courtyard or square, this tall wooden
or metal pole is adorned with colorful prayer flags, sacred cloths,
and sometimes yak tails or other ritual items. The pole itself is not
merely decorative; it serves as a spiritual beacon, channeling
blessings and acting as a vertical axis that connects the earthly
realm with the divine. Its presence is a constant reminder of the
monastery's role as a guardian of wisdom and compassion.
-
the central flagpole stands prominently in front of the Grand Sutra
Hall, anchoring the vast open square where monks gather for ceremonies
and debates. This particular pole is wrapped in layers of vibrant
prayer flags that flutter in the wind, each carrying mantras meant to
spread peace and merit across the land. The base of the pole is often
surrounded by offerings—such as butter lamps, incense, and small
ritual items—left by pilgrims and monks alike. During major festivals,
the flagpole becomes a focal point for processions and ritual dances,
reinforcing its role as a spiritual and communal centerpiece.
-
The flagpole at Labrang also reflects the monastery's unique position
at the crossroads of Tibetan and Mongolian cultures. Its design
incorporates traditional Tibetan elements, but its scale and
ornamentation speak to the grandeur of Labrang's historical influence.
Standing tall against the backdrop of gilded rooftops and whitewashed
walls, the pole is more than a religious symbol—it is a cultural
landmark. For visitors, it offers a striking visual introduction to
the monastery's sacred geometry and spiritual ethos. For the monks and
pilgrims, it is a daily touchstone of devotion, aspiration, and
continuity.
|
Medical College
|
Medical College
The Labrang Monastery Medical College, known
as Menpa Dratsang, is one of six major monastic colleges within Labrang
Monastery in Xiahe, Gansu Province.
-
Established in 1784 by the Second Jamyang Zhepa, Konchok Jigme Wangpo,
the college was founded to preserve and advance the study of
traditional Tibetan medicine and astrology in the Amdo region. Its
curriculum is rooted in centuries-old practices, blending spiritual
insight with empirical healing methods. Students at the college
undergo rigorous training in diagnosis, herbal pharmacology, pulse
reading, and astrological calculations, all of which are considered
essential to holistic Tibetan medical practice.
-
The college operates within a monastic framework, meaning that its
students are also monks who balance their medical studies with
religious duties. Instruction is typically oral and text-based,
relying on classical Tibetan medical texts such as the Four Tantras.
Senior practitioners, often referred to as "menpas," guide younger
monks through years of apprenticeship, ensuring that knowledge is
passed down with precision and reverence. The integration of astrology
into medical diagnosis is a distinctive feature of Tibetan medicine,
and students learn to interpret celestial patterns to determine
auspicious times for treatment and to understand the energetic
constitution of their patients.
-
Menpa Dratsang plays a vital role in sustaining Tibetan cultural
identity and healthcare traditions in the region. Despite modern
challenges, including limited resources and political pressures, the
college continues to attract students from across Qinghai, Gansu,
Sichuan, and Inner Mongolia. Its graduates often serve as community
healers, offering treatments that are both spiritually grounded and
physically restorative. For visitors to Labrang Monastery, the Medical
College offers a glimpse into a living tradition where medicine,
spirituality, and scholarship converge in a uniquely Tibetan way.
|
|
Central courtyard
The courtyard in front of the Medical
College, is a serene and contemplative space that serves as both a
physical and symbolic threshold into the world of Tibetan medicine.
-
Surrounded by traditional monastic architecture, the courtyard is
paved with stone and framed by covered galleries that offer shelter
and reflection. It is here that students and visitors pause before
entering the college’s inner sanctum, absorbing the quiet atmosphere
and the visual teachings embedded in the walls around them. The space
is not merely functional—it is designed to evoke a sense of reverence
and readiness for learning.
-
What makes this courtyard especially unique are the painted leafy
plants that adorn the walls of the surrounding galleries. These
botanical illustrations are not just decorative; they are pedagogical
tools, carefully rendered to reflect the healing traditions of Tibetan
medicine. Each branch is accompanied by written inscriptions—short
teachings, aphorisms, and medical principles—that guide students in
their studies. The leafy vines seem to grow organically across the
walls, intertwining with wisdom, and creating a living metaphor for
the interconnectedness of nature, health, and spiritual insight.
-
This fusion of art and instruction transforms the courtyard into an
open-air classroom. As students walk through or gather in the space,
they are surrounded by visual reminders of their purpose and the
lineage they are part of. The leafy murals echo the “tree metaphor”
found in classical Tibetan medical texts, where knowledge is
structured like a branching tree of interrelated concepts. In this
way, the courtyard becomes a place of quiet transmission—where the
walls themselves speak, and the path to healing begins not with a
textbook, but with a walk among painted leaves and words of wisdom.
|
|
Facade of the prayer hall
|
|
Portico of the prayer hall
|
|
Sword and Bird Logo
The Sword and Bird Logo painted on the
entrance porch of Labrang Monastery Medical College in Gansu, China, is
a striking emblem of Tibetan Buddhist symbolism and medical philosophy.
-
At the base of the image lies a serene lake, rendered in soft blues
and greens, representing the depth of wisdom and the source of
healing. From the center of this lake rises a radiant lotus flower, a
classic symbol of purity and spiritual awakening. The lotus, untouched
by the murky waters below, signifies the emergence of enlightened
knowledge from the depths of worldly suffering—a fitting metaphor for
the healing arts taught within the college.
-
Emerging from the heart of the lotus is a flaming sword, its blade
ablaze with stylized flames that curl upward in vibrant reds and
oranges. This sword represents the sharpness of wisdom, capable of
cutting through ignorance and illusion. Its hilt is shaped like a
vajra, the thunderbolt symbol of indestructible truth and spiritual
power in Vajrayana Buddhism. The combination of flame and vajra
suggests that the medical teachings at Labrang are not only practical
but also deeply rooted in spiritual clarity and strength. The sword’s
vertical ascent reinforces the idea of transcendence and the
transformative power of knowledge.
-
Flanking the central motif are two pairs of birds, each perched
gracefully atop lotus flowers. On the left side are two light-colored
birds, often interpreted as symbols of compassion and clarity. On the
right side sit two darker birds, representing depth, mystery, and the
hidden aspects of healing. The symmetry of the birds and their
placement on lotus blooms reflects balance—between light and dark,
seen and unseen, body and spirit. Together, these elements form a
visual mandala that encapsulates the mission of the Medical College:
to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and healing in harmony with the
profound teachings of Tibetan Buddhism.
|
|
Four Harmonious Friends
The mural of the Four Harmonious
Friends on the entrance porch of the Medical College, is a vivid and
symbolic depiction of cooperation, respect, and interdependence—values
deeply rooted in both Tibetan Buddhism and traditional medicine.
-
The image typically features four animals stacked vertically: an
elephant at the base, a monkey standing on its back, a hare above the
monkey, and a bird perched at the very top. Each animal represents a
different stage of life and a different kind of wisdom, and their
peaceful collaboration is said to bring harmony to the environment.
This story is often used to teach ethical behavior and the importance
of working together despite differences.
-
In the context of the Medical College, the mural serves as more than a
moral tale—it reflects the collaborative nature of Tibetan medical
practice. Just as the animals rely on one another to reach the fruit
of the tree, medical practitioners must rely on accumulated knowledge,
mentorship, and spiritual insight to heal effectively. The elephant,
symbolizing strength and stability, mirrors the foundational teachings
of the Four Tantras. The monkey and hare represent agility and
intuition, while the bird, often seen as the embodiment of wisdom,
crowns the group with clarity and foresight. Together, they form a
metaphor for the layered learning and mutual respect that define the
college’s approach to healing.
-
The mural’s placement at the entrance is intentional, greeting
students and visitors with a reminder of the values that underpin
their studies. Painted in rich earth tones and framed by traditional
Tibetan motifs, the image stands out against the whitewashed walls of
the porch. It invites reflection before entering the space of learning
and healing, encouraging all who pass beneath it to embody the spirit
of cooperation and humility. In a setting where spiritual and medical
teachings intertwine, the Four Harmonious Friends offer a timeless
lesson in unity and purpose.
|
|
Wheel of Life
The Wheel of Life mural at the entrance porch
of the Medical College, is a vivid and intricate representation of
samsara—the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Buddhist cosmology.
-
Painted with striking detail and symbolic precision, the mural serves
as both a teaching tool and a spiritual reminder for monks and
visitors alike. At its center is a circle divided into six realms of
existence: gods, demi-gods, humans, animals, hungry ghosts, and hell
beings. These realms illustrate the various states of suffering and
desire that beings experience depending on their karma, and they are
surrounded by the twelve links of dependent origination, which explain
how ignorance leads to the perpetuation of this cycle.
-
Encircling the entire wheel is the fearsome figure of Yama, the Lord
of Death, who holds the wheel in his grasp. His presence underscores
the inevitability of mortality and the urgency of spiritual practice.
The outer ring of the wheel depicts the twelve nidanas—symbolic scenes
that trace the chain of causation from ignorance to aging and death.
Each image is rendered with clarity and emotion, making the mural not
only a doctrinal diagram but also a deeply human portrayal of
suffering and hope. The use of bold colors and dynamic composition
draws the viewer in, encouraging contemplation and introspection.
-
Positioned at the entrance to the Medical College, the Wheel of Life
mural takes on added significance. It reminds students that healing is
not merely physical but also spiritual, and that understanding the
nature of suffering is essential to the practice of Tibetan medicine.
The mural’s placement ensures that every person entering the college
is greeted by this profound visual teaching, reinforcing the unity of
Buddhist philosophy and medical ethics. In this way, the Wheel of Life
becomes more than a painting—it is a gateway to wisdom, compassion,
and the pursuit of liberation.
|
|
Milarepa
Milarepa, one of Tibet’s most revered yogis and
poets, is depicted with quiet intensity on the wall of the entrance
porch of the Medical College.
-
His image is instantly recognizable: a slender figure seated in
meditation, with one hand cupped to his ear—a gesture symbolizing deep
listening and the transmission of spiritual songs. Clad in a simple
white cotton robe, Milarepa’s ascetic appearance contrasts with the
ornate surroundings, reminding viewers of the power of inner
transformation over material wealth. His mural serves as a spiritual
beacon for students entering the college, emphasizing the importance
of perseverance, self-discipline, and devotion.
-
The background of the mural often features rugged mountains and caves,
evoking the remote Himalayan landscapes where Milarepa practiced
intense meditation and overcame personal suffering. These natural
elements are not just decorative—they reflect the harsh conditions
under which he attained enlightenment. Painted with earthy tones and
subtle shading, the scene captures both the solitude and serenity of
his spiritual journey. The inclusion of rays of light or a halo around
his head signifies his awakened state, while nearby symbols such as
the sun, moon, or birds may represent harmony with nature and the
transcendence of duality.
-
At Labrang’s Medical College, Milarepa’s presence carries layered
meaning. His life story—marked by repentance, rigorous practice, and
ultimate liberation—mirrors the path of a healer who must confront
suffering with compassion and clarity. The mural invites students to
reflect not only on medical knowledge but also on the ethical and
spiritual dimensions of their work. In a place where science and
spirituality intertwine, Milarepa stands as a timeless guide, urging
all who pass beneath his gaze to seek wisdom through humility and
inner strength.
|
|
Marpa
The mural of Marpa Chokyi Lodro on the entrance porch
of the Medical College, presents a vivid tribute to one of Tibetan
Buddhism’s most influential figures.
-
Marpa, known as the great translator, journeyed to India multiple
times during the 11th century to bring back sacred teachings and
tantric texts that would shape the future of Tibetan spiritual
practice. In the mural, he is depicted seated in a dignified posture,
wearing a white robe and a flowing red cloak. His large earrings and
ornate red shoes add a touch of regal elegance, while the skullcup in
his left hand and the mudra formed by his right suggest his mastery of
esoteric rituals and transmission of profound wisdom.
-
The artistic rendering of Marpa at Labrang is especially striking
given the monastery’s Gelug affiliation, as Marpa is a central figure
in the Kagyu lineage. His presence here reflects a broader reverence
for enlightened masters across traditions, emphasizing the unity of
purpose in Tibetan medicine and spiritual practice. The mural’s
placement opposite Milarepa—Marpa’s most famous disciple—creates a
symbolic dialogue between teacher and student, reinforcing the
importance of lineage, discipline, and inner transformation. The
contrast between Marpa’s richly adorned appearance and Milarepa’s
austere figure highlights the diverse paths to realization within
Tibetan Buddhism.
-
For students and visitors entering the Medical College, the image of
Marpa serves as a reminder of the rigorous pursuit of knowledge and
the transmission of authentic teachings. His life story—marked by
hardship, determination, and spiritual accomplishment—mirrors the
challenges faced by those studying Tibetan medicine. The mural invites
reflection on the value of perseverance, the importance of mentorship,
and the transformative power of wisdom. In this sacred space where
healing and learning converge, Marpa’s presence stands as a timeless
symbol of dedication and enlightened guidance.
|
|
Dhrtarastra, the Heavenly King of the East
Dhrtarastra, the
Heavenly King of the East, is one of the Four Great Kings who guard the
cardinal directions in Buddhist cosmology.
-
At Labrang Monastery’s Medical College in Gansu, China, his image is
prominently painted on the wall of the entrance porch, greeting
visitors with a commanding presence. Traditionally depicted in armor
and holding a lute, Dhrtarastra symbolizes vigilance and harmony. His
role is to protect the Dharma and foster spiritual growth through
music and discipline. In Tibetan iconography, he is often shown with a
stern expression, reminding viewers of the seriousness of his
guardianship and the sacredness of the space they are entering.
-
The mural at Labrang captures Dhrtarastra in vivid colors and
intricate detail, consistent with the monastery’s rich tradition of
religious art. He stands tall, surrounded by swirling clouds and
celestial motifs, with his lute held firmly across his chest. The
instrument is not merely decorative—it represents his power to
harmonize the world and subdue discord through sound. His armor gleams
with gold and red accents, and his crown is adorned with jewels that
signify his divine authority. The background often includes stylized
flames or lotus petals, reinforcing his spiritual purity and
protective energy.
-
Positioned at the entrance to the Medical College, Dhrtarastra’s image
serves a dual purpose. On one hand, he guards the threshold, ensuring
that only those with sincere intent may enter the space of healing and
learning. On the other, he embodies the balance between strength and
compassion—qualities essential to the practice of Tibetan medicine.
His presence reminds students and visitors that the pursuit of
knowledge must be grounded in ethical discipline and spiritual
awareness. In this way, the mural is not just decorative but deeply
symbolic, anchoring the college in the broader cosmological and moral
framework of Tibetan Buddhism.
|
|
Virudhaka, the Heavenly King of the South
Virudhaka, the
Heavenly King of the South, is one of the Four Great Kings who serve as
guardians of the cardinal directions in Buddhist cosmology.
-
At the entrance porch of the Medical College of Labrang Monastery in
Gansu, China, his image is painted with commanding intensity.
Traditionally depicted wielding a sword, Virudhaka symbolizes the
forceful protection of the Dharma and the suppression of ignorance and
conflict. His fierce gaze and upright posture convey vigilance and
strength, qualities essential to the preservation of spiritual and
ethical order within the monastery’s sacred space.
-
In the mural at Labrang, Virudhaka is shown clad in ornate armor,
standing amidst swirling clouds and stylized flames that emphasize his
dynamic energy. His sword, often held in a downward position,
represents the cutting away of delusion and the defense of truth. The
colors used—deep reds, metallic golds, and bold blues—highlight his
martial role and divine status. Behind him, decorative motifs such as
lotus petals and thunderbolts reinforce his connection to purity and
power. The mural’s placement at the Medical College is especially
meaningful, as it signals the importance of discipline and clarity in
the study and practice of Tibetan medicine.
-
Virudhaka’s presence at the threshold of the Medical College serves
both a symbolic and practical function. He guards the entrance,
ensuring that those who enter do so with sincere intent and respect
for the teachings within. His image reminds students and visitors that
healing is not only a physical act but also a moral and spiritual
pursuit. In Tibetan tradition, the Four Kings are more than mythic
figures—they are embodiments of cosmic balance and ethical vigilance.
Virudhaka, as the southern guardian, anchors the space in strength and
integrity, making his mural a powerful introduction to the college’s
mission.
|
|
Virupaksa, the Heavenly King of the West
Virupaksa, the
Heavenly King of the West, is one of the Four Great Kings who guard the
cardinal directions in Buddhist cosmology.
-
At the entrance porch of the Medical College, his mural stands as a
powerful symbol of spiritual oversight and protection. Traditionally
depicted holding a serpent or a stupa, Virupaksa represents
clear-seeing wisdom and the ability to perceive truth beyond illusion.
His role is to safeguard the Dharma and ensure that practitioners
remain grounded in ethical conduct and spiritual clarity.
-
In the mural at Labrang, Virupaksa is portrayed in full warrior
regalia, his gaze penetrating and unwavering. His armor gleams with
gold and bronze tones, and his crown is adorned with celestial motifs
that mark his divine status. The serpent he holds is not a symbol of
danger but of transformation and insight—an emblem of his ability to
pierce through ignorance. Surrounding him are swirling clouds and
lotus petals, reinforcing his connection to purity and transcendence.
The artistry is meticulous, with bold lines and vibrant colors that
bring his commanding presence to life.
-
Placed at the threshold of the Medical College, Virupaksa’s image
serves as a guardian of knowledge and healing. His presence reminds
students and visitors that the pursuit of medical wisdom must be
accompanied by spiritual discipline and moral integrity. In Tibetan
medicine, clarity of perception is essential—not only in diagnosing
illness but in understanding the deeper causes of suffering.
Virupaksa, as the western protector, anchors the space in discernment
and vigilance, making his mural a vital part of the college’s symbolic
and spiritual architecture.
|
|
Vaisravana, the Heavenly King of the North
Vaisravana, the
Heavenly King of the North, is a commanding figure in Buddhist
cosmology, known as the guardian of wealth and protector of the northern
direction.
-
At the entrance porch of the Medical College of Labrang Monastery in
Gansu, China, his mural is painted with bold strokes and rich
symbolism. Traditionally depicted holding a banner of victory and a
jewel-spitting mongoose, Vaisravana embodies both spiritual authority
and material generosity. His presence at the threshold of the college
signals the safeguarding of sacred knowledge and the prosperity of
those who pursue healing and wisdom within its walls.
-
In the mural, Vaisravana is shown clad in ornate armor, seated or
standing with regal poise. His face is stern yet benevolent,
reflecting his dual role as a warrior and benefactor. The
jewel-spitting mongoose at his side is a unique emblem, symbolizing
the dispelling of greed and the offering of abundance. Surrounding him
are motifs of clouds, flames, and lotus petals, which reinforce his
divine nature and his connection to purity and transformation. The
colors—deep golds, reds, and blues—are chosen to evoke power,
protection, and spiritual richness, making his image both visually
arresting and deeply meaningful.
-
Placed at the entrance to the Medical College, Vaisravana’s mural
serves as a spiritual sentinel, reminding students and visitors of the
values that guide Tibetan medicine: compassion, clarity, and ethical
strength. His role as a guardian of wealth takes on a broader meaning
here—not just material wealth, but the wealth of knowledge, healing,
and spiritual insight. In this context, Vaisravana becomes a symbol of
the rewards that come from disciplined study and altruistic service.
His image anchors the space in a sense of purpose and reverence,
making the mural a vital part of the college’s sacred architecture.
|
Butter Sculpture Temple
|
Entrance to the Butter Sculpture Temple
Colored butter
sculpture is one of the most unique and ephemeral art forms in Tibetan
culture, blending devotion, craftsmanship, and ritual into a vivid
expression of Buddhist belief.
-
Made primarily from yak butter mixed with mineral pigments, these
sculptures are shaped into intricate figures, deities, animals,
flowers, and symbolic motifs. The butter is kept cool to maintain its
form, and monks train for years to master the delicate techniques
required to mold it. These sculptures are not permanent—they are
created for specific festivals and ceremonies, especially during the
Monlam Prayer Festival, and are meant to dissolve over time,
symbolizing impermanence and the transient nature of life.
-
At Labrang Monastery in Gansu, China, the Butter Sculpture Temple is a
celebrated site where this tradition reaches extraordinary heights.
Dating back to 1768, the temple has hosted butter sculpture displays
for over 250 years. Each year, monks create new sculptures with themes
ranging from Buddhist cosmology to scenes of daily life, often
incorporating figures like Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, birds, fish, and
trees. These works range in size from just a few millimeters to
towering pieces over two meters tall, and their exquisite detail
continues to astonish visitors. The temple becomes a focal point
during the Lantern Festival, when the sculptures are illuminated and
admired by pilgrims and tourists alike.
-
The Butter Sculpture Temple at Labrang is more than a gallery—it is a
living space of spiritual transmission. The act of sculpting is itself
a form of meditation and offering, and the resulting artworks serve as
visual teachings for those who view them. The butter sculptures also
reflect the harmony between art, healing, and spiritual insight. They
remind students and practitioners that beauty and wisdom can arise
from humble materials, and that even the most intricate creations are
subject to change. This blend of artistry and devotion makes the
Butter Sculpture Temple a rare and deeply moving experience within
Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
|
|
Panorama of the interior of the Butter Sculpture Temple
|
|
Sage of Long-Life
The sculpture of the Sage of Long-Life in
the Butter Sculpture Temple of Labrang Monastery in Gansu, China, is a
remarkable fusion of artistry, devotion, and ephemeral beauty.
-
Crafted entirely from colored butter, this figure is part of a
long-standing Tibetan tradition where monks sculpt intricate deities,
sages, and symbolic scenes using yak butter mixed with mineral
pigments. The Sage of Long-Life—often identified with Amitayus or
other longevity deities—is depicted with serene features, flowing
robes, and a gentle posture that radiates compassion and vitality. His
presence in the temple reflects the deep cultural and spiritual
emphasis on health, longevity, and the blessings of a well-lived life.
-
The Butter Sculpture Temple itself is a seasonal marvel, most active
during the Monlam Prayer Festival, when monks create elaborate butter
sculptures to honor the Buddha and transmit teachings through visual
storytelling. The sculpture of the Sage of Long-Life is typically
surrounded by floral motifs, auspicious symbols, and smaller figures
that represent the interconnectedness of life and spiritual practice.
Despite the fragility of the medium, the level of detail is
astonishing—delicate folds in the robes, expressive eyes, and finely
shaped ornaments all contribute to the sculpture’s lifelike presence.
The butter is kept cool to preserve its form, and the temple is
carefully maintained to protect these sacred creations.
-
For visitors and pilgrims, encountering the Sage of Long-Life in this
form is both humbling and inspiring. The sculpture serves not only as
a devotional object but also as a meditation on impermanence—its
beauty destined to melt away, just as life itself is fleeting. Yet
within that transience lies a deeper message: that wisdom, compassion,
and the aspiration for longevity are timeless values. In the context
of Labrang Monastery’s Medical College, this figure resonates with the
healing traditions taught within, reminding students and practitioners
that true longevity arises from harmony between body, mind, and
spirit.
|
|
Tsongkhapa
Tsongkhapa’s colored butter sculpture at the
Butter Sculpture Temple of Labrang Monastery in Gansu, China, is a
stunning tribute to the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.
-
Crafted from yak butter mixed with mineral pigments, the sculpture
captures Tsongkhapa’s serene expression, his scholar’s robes, and the
symbolic attributes that define his enlightened wisdom. He is often
depicted seated in meditation posture, with hands forming the teaching
mudra, and a lotus supporting a book and a flaming sword rising above
it—symbols of transcendent knowledge and the power to cut through
ignorance. The butter medium, though fragile, is shaped with
extraordinary precision, reflecting both artistic mastery and deep
reverence.
-
This sculpture is a centerpiece during the Butter Lamp Festival, also
known as Ganden Ngamchoe, which commemorates Tsongkhapa’s passing and
celebrates his spiritual legacy. Monks at Labrang spend weeks
preparing these ephemeral works, sculpting in cold conditions to
preserve the butter’s form. The temple becomes a glowing sanctuary of
light and devotion, with thousands of butter lamps illuminating the
sculptures and casting flickering shadows across the walls.
Tsongkhapa’s image, surrounded by floral motifs, deities, and
auspicious symbols, serves as a visual sermon—inviting reflection on
the values of wisdom, discipline, and compassion that he championed.
-
For pilgrims and students of the Medical College nearby, Tsongkhapa’s
butter sculpture is more than a festival decoration—it is a living
embodiment of the teachings they strive to uphold. His presence in the
Butter Sculpture Temple bridges art and spirituality, reminding
viewers that true healing and insight arise from clarity of mind and
purity of heart. The sculpture’s impermanence also echoes a core
Buddhist truth: that all things are subject to change, and that beauty
lies not in permanence, but in the sincerity of creation and the depth
of meaning it conveys.
|
|
Four Harmonious Friends
The colored butter sculpture of the
Four Harmonious Friends at the Butter Sculpture Temple of Labrang
Monastery in Gansu, China, is a joyful and deeply symbolic creation that
celebrates unity, respect, and interdependence.
-
Crafted from yak butter mixed with mineral pigments, the sculpture
depicts four animals stacked atop one another: an elephant at the
base, a monkey on its back, a hare above the monkey, and a bird
perched at the very top. This arrangement is based on a beloved
Buddhist parable that teaches the importance of cooperation and
honoring seniority. The butter medium allows for vibrant colors and
delicate details, bringing each animal to life with expressive
features and graceful postures.
-
During the Monlam Prayer Festival, when butter sculptures are
prominently displayed, the Four Harmonious Friends become a favorite
among both pilgrims and visitors. The sculpture is often surrounded by
floral motifs, trees, and auspicious symbols, reinforcing the theme of
natural harmony and collective well-being. Despite the fragility of
the butter, the monks sculpt with extraordinary precision, capturing
the warmth and charm of the animals and the gentle humor of their
stacked formation. The bird, often shown with wings slightly spread,
adds a sense of lightness and aspiration to the composition, while the
elephant anchors the group with strength and stability.
-
In the context of the Butter Sculpture Temple and the nearby Medical
College, this sculpture carries layered meaning. It reminds students
and practitioners that healing and wisdom flourish through
collaboration, humility, and mutual support. The Four Harmonious
Friends are not just decorative—they are visual teachings, embodying
values that resonate across spiritual and medical traditions. Their
presence in butter form, destined to melt away, also speaks to the
Buddhist truth of impermanence, encouraging viewers to cherish harmony
while it lasts and to cultivate it in their own lives.
|
Golden Temple
|
Golden Temple
Nestled within the sprawling Labrang Monastery
complex in Xiahe County, Gansu Province, the Golden Temple—also known as
the Serkung Temple—is one of its most revered and visually striking
structures.
-
Labrang Monastery itself is a cornerstone of the Gelug school of
Tibetan Buddhism and ranks among the six great monasteries of this
tradition. The Golden Temple stands out with its gilded roof and
ornate architectural details, blending Tibetan and Han Chinese
influences. Its shimmering exterior, adorned with bronze finials and
golden Dharma wheels, reflects both spiritual grandeur and artistic
mastery, making it a focal point for pilgrims and visitors alike.
-
The temple is part of a guided tour circuit within Labrang, which also
includes the Grand Sutra Hall and the Institute of Medicine. Visitors
are drawn not only to its aesthetic beauty but also to the deeply
spiritual atmosphere that permeates the space. Inside, the halls are
illuminated by flickering yak-butter lamps, casting a warm yellow glow
over intricate murals and statues. Though photography is strictly
prohibited, the experience is immersive—chanting monks, the scent of
incense, and the rhythmic turning of prayer wheels create a sensory
tapestry that leaves a lasting impression.
-
Historically, Labrang Monastery was founded in 1709 by the first
Jamyang Zhepa, Ngawang Tsondru, and has served as a major center for
Buddhist learning and ritual in the Amdo region. The Golden Temple,
like other key halls in the monastery, plays a vital role in religious
ceremonies and daily monastic life. It symbolizes the spiritual heart
of Labrang, where teachings are preserved, prayers are offered, and
the community gathers in devotion. Despite the challenges of
history—including the Cultural Revolution—the temple remains a beacon
of resilience and faith, continuing to inspire generations of monks
and pilgrims.
|
See Also
Source
Location
