Trúc Lâm Zen Buddhism (Thiền Phái Trúc Lâm) is a unique sect of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism, established during the Trần Dynasty by King Trần Nhân Tông. Trúc Lâm, meaning “Bamboo Forest,” was not only King Trần Nhân Tông’s Dharma name but also the title of his spiritual predecessor, Zen Master Đạo Viên, the second patriarch of this tradition. Trúc Lâm is renowned for uniting three prominent Vietnamese meditation schools of the 12th century: Thảo Đường, Vô Ngôn Thông, and Tỳ-ni-đa-lưu-chi.
After relinquishing his throne to his son, King Trần Anh Tông, in 1293, King Trần Nhân Tông dedicated his life to monastic practice. He began his spiritual journey at Khai Phúc Temple in Ninh Bình and later continued at Yên Tử Mountain in Quảng Ninh, where he founded the Trúc Lâm Zen School in 1299. This school is also referred to as Trúc Lâm Yên Tử and is celebrated for its three patriarchs: Nhân Tông (Trúc Lâm Đầu Đà), Pháp Loa, and Huyền Quang.
Trúc Lâm Bảo Chí Zen Buddhist Temple was established in 2015 in Lawrenceville, Georgia, by Venerable Thích Đạo Tỉnh. Our temple serves the vibrant Vietnamese-American community in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas.
We aim to honor the teachings of Trúc Lâm by promoting mindfulness, compassion, and unity within the Sangha. Whether you are seeking spiritual guidance, meditation practices, or a supportive community, we welcome you to join us. Feel free to stop by the temple or contact us for more information.
Whether you’re skilled in gardening, cooking, teaching, or simply want to lend a helping hand, your time and talents are invaluable to our mission.