Location and Significance
Donggar Temple (stong-dgav-dgon) is situated in the Doilung Dechen District and stands as one of the three major Dharma protector temples in Tibet. The other two are the Qujiong Dharma Protector Temple of Naichung Monastery and the Drepung Monastery.
Unique Reputation Despite Its Size
Although Donggar Temple is small, housing only a few dozen monks, it commands high esteem in the region. Some of its temple owners have been honored with the title “Dharma Kings” (chos-rgyal), considered the highest level of living Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism, and also known as “Hutuktu.”
The Cliff Statues Near Donggar Temple
At the southern foot of Dongga Mountain, close to the temple, stand two significant cliff statues:
- Jamyang Choejay Tashi Palden Statue: Measuring 1.45 meters in height, this statue represents Jiangyang Quejie (1379–1449), the founder of Drepung Monastery.
- Sakyamuni Buddha Statue: This larger statue, at 3.2 meters tall, depicts Sakyamuni Buddha with a precious bun on his head. He is dressed in a cassock with a monk’s robe underneath, holding an alms bowl in his left hand and making the magic subduing seal with his right. Seated in the lotus position on a lotus seat, the statue features a simple outline and a dignified expression.
Donggar Temple, with its rich history and cultural significance, continues to be a site of reverence and spiritual importance in Tibetan Buddhism.
