Ordination Platform

Lama Temple, Beijing

This ordination platform, one of only two in China, was built in 1780 by Emperor Qianlong for the Sixth Panchen Lama, who was visiting Beijing to celebrate the Emperor's 70th birthday. Unfortunately the Lama died in Beijing later that year, but a statue of him has been placed on top of the platform. He looks much as he would have in life, when he gave lectures and conducted ordination ceremonies from the lofty, three-storey height.