Guardians of History: The Wang Family and the Tiefo Temple 

Guardians of History: The Wang Family and the Tiefo Temple 
At 78, Wang Gaiying carries on a legacy stretching over four generations, deeply rooted  within the walls of the Tiefo Temple in Gaoping, Shanxi province. For Wang, the temple  is more than an architectural marvel; it is home, a place where her life's journey has  been intimately intertwined with the preservation of cultural heritage. The temple,  renowned for its 24 exquisite statues inspired by Black Myth: Wukong and the Chinese  classic Journey to the West, reflects the spiritual depth and historical significance that  have attracted devotees and admirers alike. 

Constructed in 1168, and surviving through the Ming and Qing dynasties, Tiefo Temple  has been a bastion of Buddhism. With the recent public restoration and reopening in  August, it now offers a glimpse into its storied past to a wider audience. Wang, whose  stewardship began when she married at 20 and joined her mother-in-law in guarding  the temple, took full responsibility in 1988. This role has been both a privilege and a  profound duty. 

Wang’s dedication is matched by the sense of duty that her daughter, Meng Xuezheng,  and son-in-law, Wang Wendian, feel towards the temple. Having recently moved closer  to assist Wang, they share her commitment to its preservation. Together, they  represent a familial line that not only maintains the physical structure but also the  spiritual ethos that the temple embodies. 

The temple's artifacts, including its Buddhist sculptures and murals, have been  catalogued as national treasures. Over 28,027 ancient buildings in Shanxi are  protected, but Tiefo stands out due to the family’s tireless efforts. Meng poignantly  recalls her childhood discussions with her mother about the temple's care,  emphasizing that it has become a core part of their identity: "The temple is our root, our  home, our faith—passed down through generations." 

With the temple now open to the public, the Wang family continues to serve as its  protectors, embodying a living connection to their ancestry and cultural heritage. They  are not merely custodians of history; they are its active preservers, ensuring that the  teachings and tranquillity of the Tiefo Temple are safeguarded for future generations.