On May 26, 2017, a release ceremony was held at Yunlin Library of Lingyin Temple for the new book Fo Fa Zhi Yuan (The Origin of Buddhism – A Photo Collection of the History of Four Grand Buddhist Temples in Hangzhou) co-compiled by Lingyin Temple and Professor Shen Hong of Zhejiang University and his team. Distinguished guests included scholars and collectors of historical photos, as well as officials and staff from Zhejiang Photography Publishing House, Zhejiang University Library, Zhejiang Library, Hangzhou Public Library, and Hangzhou Buddhist Academy Library.

The book Fo Fa Zhi Yuan is a collection of precious photos scattered all over the world during the late Qing dynasty and the Republic of China period, the themes of which covered a wide spectrum including temple architecture, sculptures, wall paintings, stone inscriptions, as well as social and cultural features of the time. Such a historic pictorial record is of great historical value and practical significance, with which we can better understand the social life and the development of Buddhist temples during the late Qing dynasty and the Republic of China period.

The temple supervisor of Lingyin Temple Master Kuoren delivered a speech on behalf of Abbot Ven. Guangquan at the ceremony and expressed sincere gratitude to all the guests and all the staff who were dedicated to the compilation and publishing of the book. The chief compiler of the book Fo Fa Zhi Yuan Professor Shen Hong of Zhejiang University said at the ceremony:

The book Fo Fa Zhi Yuan is a photo collection co-compiled by Lingyin Temple and Shen Hong Research Group. Lingyin Temple gave strong support for the compilation of the book. For example, it invited old photo collectors both at home and abroad and held an international forum on old photo collection. With joint efforts from many entities for three years, the book Fo Fa Zhi Yuan has been finally released. I hope there will be more opportunities to collaborate with Lingyin Temple in the future on cultural endeavors.

The book release event at Yunlin Library of Lingyin Temple


The temple supervisor of Lingyin Temple Master Kuoren delivering a speech


Professor Shen Hong of Zhejiang University delivering a speech


Guests and enthusiasts at event Venue