temple gate; Buddhism
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
main gate of a Buddhist temple; temple gate
Originally referred to the outermost gate of a Buddhist monastery, often built between two hills or mountains. It is often used to symbolize the boundary between the secular world and the sacred space of the temple.
The main gate of this thousand-year-old temple is magnificent, with upturned eaves and exquisite carvings.
As we passed through the temple gate, it felt as if we had entered another pure and tranquil world.
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There are two tall ginkgo trees in front of the temple gate, already five hundred years old.
noun
Buddhism; the Buddhist community; monastic life
literaryUsed as a metonymy where 'mountain gate' stands for Buddhism itself or the community of monks. Often used in phrases describing entry into the monastic life or conversion to Buddhism.
After middle age, he became disillusioned with the secular world and eventually retreated into Buddhism, shaving his head to become a monk.
Since entering the monastic life, he has lived a pure and ascetic life, chanting sutras and meditating every day.
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She decided to convert to Buddhism, seeking inner peace in the monastery.