In the depths of the South China Sea in Sanya, Hainan Province, there is a 108-meter-high statue of Guanyin in the South China Sea, a giant sculpture supported by a golden lotus throne, which not only shocked the hearts of countless people with its grandeur, but also became a legend with the story behind it. The creator of this statue of Guanyin, Zhang Hui, is an entrepreneur with a deep Buddhist belief. The successful man's life came to an abrupt end four years after the statue was completed, and he mysteriously died in the water.
In 1999, Zhang Hui had an extraordinary dream on an ordinary night. In the dream, a white Guanyin slowly rose from the blue waters of the South China Sea, and the Buddha's light shone brightly, which made him feel awe. The former soldier, now an entrepreneur, was deeply influenced by his family's Buddhist culture and decided to turn this dream into reality.
Zhang's decision was not a whim. When he was young, he had an epiphany in front of the statue of Guanyin at the low point of his life, and this experience made him firmly believe that he could not do without the blessing of the Bodhisattva today. He wanted to repay the Bodhisattva's kindness by building this statue of Guanyin, and at the same time, he hoped to bring more benefits to Hainan.
At that time, Hainan was not the tourist hotspot it is now, but a barren land that relied on fishing for a living. Zhang Hui took a fancy to the geographical location and superior natural environment of Nanshan, and believed that it was the best place to build the Guanyin statue. He believes that a statue of a Bodhisattva standing in the South China Sea can not only protect the safe return of fishermen who go out to sea, but also become a new engine for local economic development.
Such a grand project is naturally full of challenges. From raising capital to designing and constructing, every step requires careful planning and consideration. Zhang Hui was not afraid of difficulties, mobilized all resources and contacts, and finally on the 19th day of the ninth lunar month in 1999, the construction of the 108-meter-high Guanyin statue costing 800 million yuan and using more than 100 kilograms of gold was officially started.
It took eight years for the statue to finally stand above the South China Sea. Zhang Hui kowtowed three times in front of the statue of Guanyin, thanking the Bodhisattva for his guidance and protection. At the same time, this statue has gradually become a landmark attraction in Hainan, attracting countless tourists to come and worship, which has greatly promoted the local tourism and economic development.
Just as Zhang Hui's career was in full swing, one night in 2009, he suddenly disappeared and was subsequently found dead in the water, and the cause of death was a mystery. Some say it was karma because he built the statue to make a profit, while others speculate that it was because Zhang Hui touched the interests of some people and was framed.
Local legends and folk beliefs can sometimes add a layer of mystery to events. Some people believe that Hainan was originally a sacred place for Mazu, and Zhang Hui built a statue of Guanyin, which may have violated the taboo of the gods. Although there is no scientific basis for this statement, it reflects the people's reverence for nature and the gods.
Zhang Hui's former friends recalled that he mentioned many times that the construction of the Guanyin statue was a gift from him to Nanhai and a manifestation of his personal beliefs. Zhang Hui himself has high hopes for this statue, hoping that it can become the sustenance of people's hearts, and at the same time promote the development of culture and tourism in Hainan.
Zhang Hui's sudden death brought deep sadness and incomprehension to his family, friends, and the statue. To date, there are various theories about the cause of his death, and there is no conclusive evidence to support any of the speculations. This also makes this event surrounded by more mystery and becomes an unsolved mystery.
After Zhang Hui's death, the story about him and the statue became known to more people. Both Buddhists and ordinary tourists are fascinated by this legend. People come here not only to see this world-class statue, but also to find that subtle solace in their souls.
Zhang Hui's story and the statue of Guanyin he left behind have become a symbol of faith, dreams and mystery. He used his life and energy to interpret the ultimate pursuit of faith, even if he left behind countless questions and legends, this dedication and enthusiasm are enough to be remembered.
Zhang Hui's life seems to be a legend, from an ordinary soldier to a successful entrepreneur to the construction of the world's tallest statue of Guanyin. His stories are a blend of dreams, beliefs, mysteries, and controversies. Although his sudden death left the world with endless speculation and regret, his pursuit of faith and persistence in his dreams will always inspire everyone who comes to Nanshan for pilgrimage. Although Zhang Hui is gone, his dream and spirit are still alive and well over the South China Sea.