The unique rice-inscribed horizontal board at Keo Pagoda – Thai Binh

Overview of Zen Master Dương Không Lộ

Zen Master Dương Không Lộ (1016–1094), born Dương Minh Nghiêm, was a renowned monk of the Vô Ngôn Thông Zen sect. Starting as a fisherman, he became a revered Zen master who significantly contributed to the development of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism and left behind many famous poetic works. He also founded Nghiêm Quang Pagoda (the predecessor of Keo Pagoda), which is closely tied to Vietnam’s Buddhist cultural heritage.

The history of Thái Bình's Keo pagoda

Keo Pagoda in Thai Binh, built in 1632, is a renowned Buddhist temple known for its unique wooden architecture. Originating in the 11th century, it has endured many historical events and remains well-preserved to this day.

Introduction to Keo Pagoda

Keo Pagoda (Thần Quang Tự) in Thái Bình is a famous ancient pagoda dedicated to Buddha and Zen master Dương Không Lộ. Recognized as a Special National Heritage Site, the pagoda is renowned for its unique architecture and traditional festival, which has been honored as a national intangible cultural heritage.

Nguyen Huu Cuong – A Patriotic Scholar and Warrior

Nguyễn Hữu Cương was born in the year of Ất Mão, during the 8th year of Emperor Tự Đức's reign (1855). He was the eldest son of Nguyễn Mậu Kiến, an Án sát (provincial judge), from Động Trung village, Kiến Xương prefecture, now known as Vũ Trung Commune (Kiến Xương District).