Guanlin: A Timeless Monument to Loyalty and Righteousness in Luoyang

In the ancient capital of Luoyang, every inch of land is etched with the marks of time. Guanlin, like a shining pearl radiating loyalty and righteousness, exudes a unique charm across the ages, attracting countless visitors to explore its secrets. With reverence for the spirit of loyalty and curiosity about history, I set foot on this legendary land.​ From afar, the gate of Guanlin appears solemn and simple. The grayish-blue bricks, weathered by time, still stand firm, as if silently narrating the magnificent history of the Three Kingdoms period. The two characters "Guanlin" above the gate are written in powerful strokes, seemingly bearing the weight of a thousand years. Stepping through the gate, a wide sacred path unfolds before you. Stone animals line both sides, each with a unique posture, some majestic, others lively. Like loyal guards, they silently protect this sacred place.​ Walking along the sacred path, you first arrive at the Yi Men (Ceremonial Gate). Its architectural style is elegant, with flying eaves, brackets, carved beams, and painted rafters. Every detail showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Passing through the Yi Men, you enter the Bai Dian (Hall of Worship). The hall is solemn and respectful, filled with the lingering fragrance of incense. Here, people bow in reverence to the statue of Guan Yu, expressing their admiration and remembrance for this paragon of loyalty and righteousness. The statue of Guan Yu is lifelike, depicting him in a green robe, with phoenix eyes, silkworm eyebrows, a face like a ripe date, a flowing beard, and the Green Dragon Crescent Blade in hand. He exudes heroic spirit, as if bringing to life his battlefield prowess and dominance in ancient China.​ The most distinctive feature of Guanlin is the main hall, Da Dian. It is magnificent, with glazed tiles shimmering gold under the sunlight. Inside, a seated statue of Guan Yu is enshrined, wearing a crown and imperial robes, dignified and solemn. The surrounding walls are adorned with exquisite murals, vividly depicting the legendary stories of Guan Yu's life, from the Oath of the Peach Garden to the flooding of the Seven Armies, from the single-handed meeting to his defeat at Maicheng. Each mural is vibrant in color and smooth in lines, perfectly presenting Guan Yu's image of loyalty and righteousness, leaving viewers in awe of the ancient painting skills.​ Beyond the magnificent architecture, the cultural significance of Guanlin is even more touching. Guan Yu, revered as the "God of War," has become a moral exemplar for the Chinese nation with his spirit of loyalty, righteousness, benevolence, and courage. Here, the culture of loyalty and righteousness is not just a historical memory but a spiritual force passed down through generations. During important festivals, grand ceremonies are held at Guanlin, attracting people from all directions to commemorate Guan Yu and carry forward the spirit of loyalty and righteousness.​ Strolling through the courtyard of Guanlin, ancient trees tower into the sky, providing ample shade. Several thousand-year-old cypresses, with thick trunks and lush foliage, have witnessed the rise and fall of Guanlin and the unwavering adherence to the spirit of loyalty and righteousness by countless people. Occasionally, a gentle breeze rustles the leaves, as if whispering those timeless stories of loyalty and righteousness.​ Guanlin in Luoyang is not just a temple commemorating Guan Yu but a sanctuary of Chinese loyalty and righteousness. Here, you can feel the weight of history, appreciate the charm of ancient architecture, and understand the profound meaning of loyalty and righteousness. If you visit Luoyang, be sure to visit Guanlin. You will undoubtedly be captivated by its unique charm and embark on an unforgettable spiritual journey.