The History of Choijin Lama Temple Museum
The Choijin Lama Temple Museum is a historical and cultural gem located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This Buddhist monastery complex was built between 1904 and 1908, dedicated to the brother of the 8th Bogd Khaan, Choijin Lama Luvsankhaidav, who was a state oracle at the time. The complex consists of four temples and other buildings which are richly decorated. The museum is a testament to the religious art and architecture of Mongolia, showcasing the country’s deep Buddhist heritage.
The museum was spared from the communist purges of the 1930s that saw many other religious buildings destroyed. It was converted into a museum in 1942, showcasing the best of Mongolian and Tibetan religious art. The museum houses a collection of religious artifacts, thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), sculptures, and masks used in religious ceremonies.
The main temple, known as the Dashchoilin Khiid, houses the statue of Choijin Lama and other deities. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings, depicting various Buddhist deities and scenes from Buddhist mythology. The temple also features a number of Tsam dance masks, which were used in religious ceremonies to ward off evil spirits.
The Zankhang temple houses a collection of thangkas, depicting the life of Buddha and other Buddhist deities. The thangkas are richly detailed, with vibrant colors and intricate designs. They provide a glimpse into the religious and artistic traditions of Mongolia and Tibet.
The Yidam temple is dedicated to the deity Yamantaka, who is considered a wrathful manifestation of Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom. The temple houses a large statue of Yamantaka, surrounded by smaller statues of other deities. The temple is also home to a number of religious texts, providing insight into the Buddhist philosophy and teachings.
The Amgalan temple is dedicated to the deity Amgalan, who is associated with healing and medicine. The temple houses a number of medical texts and artifacts, highlighting the role of Buddhism in traditional Mongolian medicine.
The museum also features a number of other buildings, including a library, a school, and living quarters for the monks. These buildings provide a glimpse into the daily life of the monks who once lived and studied in the monastery.
The Choijin Lama Temple Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism, art, and history. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia, and to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s Buddhist traditions.
Table: Summary of Choijin Lama Temple Museum
| Aspect | Description |
| — | — |
| Location | Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia |
| Built | Between 1904 and 1908 |
| Dedicated to | Choijin Lama Luvsankhaidav |
| Number of temples | Four |
| Converted into a museum | 1942 |
| Main attractions | Religious artifacts, thangkas, sculptures, masks |
FAQ
What is the Choijin Lama Temple Museum?
The Choijin Lama Temple Museum is a Buddhist monastery complex located in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. It was built between 1904 and 1908 and was converted into a museum in 1942.
Who was the temple dedicated to?
The temple was dedicated to Choijin Lama Luvsankhaidav, the brother of the 8th Bogd Khaan and a state oracle.
What can you see in the museum?
The museum houses a collection of religious artifacts, thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), sculptures, and masks used in religious ceremonies.
What are the main temples in the complex?
The main temples in the complex are the Dashchoilin Khiid, the Zankhang temple, the Yidam temple, and the Amgalan temple.
Why should you visit the Choijin Lama Temple Museum?
The Choijin Lama Temple Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism, art, and history. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia and to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s Buddhist traditions.