On May 5, 2025, a significant event unfolded in Ho Chi Minh City as the heart relic of Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc was ceremoniously transported to Vietnam Quoc Tu, marking a momentous occasion for the Buddhist community. The relic, revered for its historical and spiritual significance, was brought from its long-term storage at the State Bank of Vietnam, where it has been preserved since 1991.
The ceremony commenced at 15:00, when representatives of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha arrived at the State Bank located on Vo Van Kiet Street. The heart relic was covered in a red silk cloth, symbolizing reverence and respect. Venerable Thich Le Trang, the head of the Ho Chi Minh City Buddhist Association, along with Thich Duc Thien, Vice Chairman and General Secretary of the Buddhist Council, led the procession.
At 16:10, the motorcade departed from the State Bank, taking a route that included Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, and Ba Thang Hai Street. This route was particularly poignant as it passed through the intersection of Cach Mang Thang Tam and Nguyen Dinh Chieu, a site of great historical significance where Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc self-immolated in 1963 to protest the oppression of Buddhism under the regime of Ngo Dinh Diem.
As the procession made its way to Vietnam Quoc Tu, a large crowd of devotees and onlookers gathered along the streets, many of whom clasped their hands in prayer as a sign of respect. The heartfelt atmosphere underscored the deep reverence the community holds for the relic, which is considered a symbol of compassion, wisdom, and the enduring spirit of Buddhism in Vietnam.
Upon arrival at Vietnam Quoc Tu at approximately 16:20, the heart relic was welcomed by Venerable Thich Tri Quang, the Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Church. The relic will be enshrined in a designated area within the temple, allowing the public to pay their respects during the upcoming United Nations Vesak Celebration.
The opening ceremony for public worship is scheduled to begin at 14:00 on May 6 and will continue until May 10, 2025. This period coincides with the Buddha's Birthday celebration, making it an especially auspicious time for devotees. Over 50,000 people have registered to participate in the worship of the heart relic, reflecting its profound significance to the faithful.
Venerable Thich Le Trang expressed the importance of this event, stating, "The heart relic of Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc is a sacred treasure of Vietnamese Buddhism. Its enshrinement and public worship is a major spiritual event as we commemorate the legacy of our beloved Bodhisattva during the Vesak celebrations."
The Da Bao Tower, where the heart relic will eventually be permanently housed, stands as a 63-meter tall structure with 13 floors. This tower is not only a religious monument but also a historical symbol of the peaceful struggle for religious equality that took place in 1963. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the freedom of belief and the rights of the Buddhist community in Vietnam.
As the days of worship approach, the organizing committee has encouraged groups and individuals to register in advance to manage the large number of attendees effectively. With more than 1,088 delegations already registered, the event is expected to draw significant crowds. The hotline number 077 966 1173 has been established for those seeking assistance with registration and logistics.
The heart relic of Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc, which remained intact despite being subjected to flames during his self-immolation, is a poignant reminder of his dedication and sacrifice. His act of self-immolation on June 11, 1963, was a powerful statement against religious oppression and has since become a pivotal moment in Vietnam's history.
As the community prepares to honor this relic, the atmosphere at Vietnam Quoc Tu is charged with anticipation and reverence. The event not only commemorates the legacy of a revered figure in Buddhism but also serves to unite the community in a shared expression of faith and remembrance.
In conclusion, the transportation and public worship of the heart relic of Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc represent a historic moment for Vietnamese Buddhism, reinforcing the enduring values of compassion and resilience within the community. As the relic takes its place at Vietnam Quoc Tu, it is set to inspire countless devotees and serve as a lasting symbol of the Buddhist faith in Vietnam.
