Desert Narrative - Briana Johnson

Trine

The era of the Tang Dynasty is considered to be the golden age of Chinese culture. Population increased, the army grew in intensity, and Buddhism became the predominant religion during their reign. The great rulers of the Tang dynasty developed many ways to preserve their fortune in an attempt to remain the ruling governance in China. It is believed that they hired the most distinguished scholars in the land to create recordings of China and the world at large so that they would have full control over who would access this sacred information. Scholars and scientists of this time did not use compasses or maps to travel and collect information but rather used their knowledge of the desert, its landmarks, wind direction, sun position, and the stars to navigate.

The Dunhuang Astronomy Map dates back to the years 690 - 705

The year is 1900 and the discovery of the Magao caves becomes one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the current time. Preserved since the time of the Tang dynasty, the great astronomical map of Dunhuang is discovered. Astronomers find that 13 current constellations are represented on the map and it is recognized as one of the first astronomical maps ever to be recorded.

In present day the Magao caves are not only considered a haven for great archaeological artifacts, but also act as a sacred space for many Buddhists. Those who follow the Buddhist religion are guided to seek refuge in the Triple Gem - The Buddha, The Dharma, and The Sangha. Legend has it that if you follow the Dunhuang Astronomy Map and use its projected astronomical path as a guide on the desert land a place of great refuge, called Trine, can be found.

Trine - As depicted in ancient Chinese folklore

While this myth appeals to many Buddhists, astronomers also seek to find Trine because surrounding Trine resides one of the greatest points of observation in the Northern Hemisphere. By following the Three Precious Gems Buddhists can reach enlightenment. By following the three points indicated on the Dunhuang map astronomers are sure to observe the stars like nowhere else in the world. These three points are depicted on the map as follows:

The Buddha

The Buddha is the ideal or highest spiritual potential for which all Buddhists seek. This too is the point on the Dunhuang map that indicates the observation point that astronomers seek.

The Dharma

If Buddhist follow the Dharma, or the great teachings of Buddhism, they are sure to reach The Buddha. The Dharma as indicated on the Dunhuang map is a projected path that leads astronomers to and from Trine.

The Sangha

The community for which all enlightened Buddhists are to congregate and join in called the Sangha. Trine is the Sangha where Buddhists and astronomers can come together in refuge to rest during their journey and honor the many wonders of the Dunhuang desert.