Travels in China - Temples and Prayers

Historically, "religion" in China has been pluralistic, which frankly sounds much more reasonable and humanistic to me than what is usually foisted - even coerced - on masses of adherents in other areas.  Thus, according to those who know much more about such things than I can ever pretend to, "religions" in China are more appropriately described as "cultural practices," "thought systems," or philosophies.  However one wishes to describe it, nearly one-fifth of Chinese, like many other peoples throughout Asia, practice some form of Buddhism - and have done so since Buddhism was introduced to China in the 1st century.  As a result, Buddhist temples are scattered prolifically throughout Beijing.

The roof designs and sculptures can give one an idea of the temple's importance.  According to HWMBO, the designs on this one - and unfortunately, I do not know its name - indicate that this building is quite important.

The entrance is also ornate,

while the courtyard promotes peaceful reflection

and expansive meditation.

Prayer wheels abound,

complete with instructions,

which this visitor proceeds to follow, even as she poses for photos.

Lanterns lead the way to a stand

where prayers for intercession can be purchased, and

placed where they will - hopefully - do most good.