Koreabridge
Silsangsan Sect – Silsangsa Temple (Namwon, Jeollabuk-do)
The Silsangsan sect was headquartered out of Silsangsa Temple, or “True Nature Temple” in English, in Namwon in present-day Jeollabuk-do in the northern part of the famed Jirisan National Park. The founding patriarch of the Silsangsan sect was Hongcheok-guksa (fl. 830 A.D.), who built Silsangsa Temple to help spread the teachings of Seon Buddhism. Hongcheok-guksa learned under Zhizang (735-814 A.D.). The sect was first founded in 828 A.D. Hongcheok-guksa was posthumously named Jeunggak. Both Hongcheok-guksa’s stupa and stele can be found to this day on the temple grounds of Silsangsa Temple.
In the early 800’s, Hongcheok traveled to Tang China (618–690, 705–907 A.D.). He did this to help further his Buddhist studies. While there, he studied under the monk Zhizang. Hongcheok-guksa returned to Silla at the beginning of King Heungdeok of Silla’s reign which lasted from 826-836 A.D. Upon his return to Silla, Hongcheok-guksa was able to convert King Heungdeok of Silla and his heir, Seonggang. Silsangsa Temple was later renovated by royal decree around the time of King Heungdeok of Silla’s reign. It was then that the temple became the centre of the Silsangsan sect. Master Hongcheok had numerous disciples including Pyeonnum and Sucheol. Of note, the Silsangsan sect was the first of the Nine Mountain Schools.
The Stele for Buddhist Monk Jeunggak at Silsangsa Temple. The Stupa of Buddhist Monk Jeunggak at Silsangsa Temple —Dale's Korean Temple Adventures YouTube
Passive Verbs Also Mean “Can” or “Can’t” | Korean FAQ
Passive verbs are a bit of a tricky topic for Korean. This is because passive voice is not used in the same way as it is in English, and isn't nearly as common in the same ways.
However, the passive voice is commonly used, just in different ways than it is in English. One of the most common ways passive voice is used is for making adjectives (when used directly before a noun). And one more common way that passive voice is used is to express "can" or "can't" as well.
The post Passive Verbs Also Mean “Can” or “Can’t” | Korean FAQ appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.
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Korea looks at xenotransplantation as a viable solution - The Korea Podcast 147 #covid #ulsan
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March Teaching Job Position in Busan
March Teaching Job Position in Busan
Are you interested in working with the largest English Education academy in Busan, Korea? Read on!
Jingu Lingua Institute is looking for a Full time Engish Teacher in Busan, Korea.
Have you ever taught Korean students English? Read on!
Location : Busan Jingu Lingua Institute.
Job Ad Type : Teaching – Full Time.
Contact Person by E-mail.
*Starting date : March. 2022.
*Teaching Type : Elementary / Middle School.
*Working days : Monday ~ Friday.
*Working hours : 1:00 P.M. ~ 8:30 P.M.
*Monthly pay : 2.3~2.5 million won (depends on experience and interview)
*Housing : Single.
*Vacation : Yes.
*Benefits : One way airfare ticket.
: Severance pay, Health Insurance.
: E-2 Visa support.
Director E-mail : [email protected]
iPhone 7 black 32GB
iPhone 7 Black 32GB
I have upgraded my phone and that's why selling my iPhone 7. The condition of the phone is very good. Speakers, GPS and Fingerprint all working fine. The battery is 85%.
Selling price is 120,000 won
If interested feel free to contact me on kakao ID: azkaban03 or 010-9848-0770
Samsung A 12
Selling my SAMSUNG A12 (Black) 32 GB
Original Box with original charger. I will give screen protector too.
Phone is in ideal condition and not used much. Pick up near Busan National University
Selling price is 80,000 won
If interested feel free to contact me on kakao ID: azkaban03 or direct contact: 010-9848-0770
galaxy a12.jpg A 12.jpg a 12-1.jpgSelling Original Lenovo LP40 TWS Wireless Earphone
Hi!
I accidentally ordered 3 packages of this https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001777223090.html?spm=a2g0o.9042311.... to Korea instead of my home country so now I am selling this for the price of 16 000 won. (same as Aliexpress)
I've got two white and one black (all with cases). One thing I need to mention is that somehow all of them show white earphones on the outside so I don't know which one is black. Maybe the seller shipped 3 white ones by accident?
If you don't want a case, the price is 15 000 won.
Image: https://imgur.com/bWOBhEK
Location to pick up: Jangjeon station (장전역)
What Do Filipinos Think Of Crypto And Axie Infinity? | Street Interview
Our Friends Opened a Restaurant! | Wane's Kitchen
Burger n' Kimchi are excited to share with you our friends' new restaurant in Busan! Wane's Kitchen serves the healthiest coconut oil fried chicken you can get in all of Korea. They are pioneering something that hasn't been done before in Busan. HEALTHY FRIED CHICKEN.
Kimchi and I ordered basically everything off the menu at Wane's Kitchen. We ordered: Coconut Oil Fried Chicken, Sauced Coconut Oil Fried Chicken, Fried Squid Rings, Sauced Fried Squid Rings, Whole Fried Shrimp, Sauced Whole Fried Shrimp, and Paratha Strips. It was the ultimate fried feast!
Since Kimchi is back in this video, I also shouldn't forget that she had a Lion Beer Lager and some fancy mixed drinks.
If you're dying for some healthy coconut oil fried chicken in Busan, you can get to Wane's Kitchen easily from either Gwangan Station Exit 5 or Gwangalli Beach. From Exit 5, you just simply need to walk towards the beach. You can't miss it!
*When a location on Google Maps shows up, I will update the location. Until then, my directions will just have to suffice.
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Burger’s Snack Recommendations
REST IN PIECES If You Dare Try This Spicy Chip - https://amzn.to/3Dk0HuM
A Slightly Sweet and Savory Black Ramen - https://amzn.to/3xZx29g
Gently Spicy Ramen to Mix with the Above Ramen! - https://amzn.to/3Gf9RL0
2X SPICY Noodles for a Decent Challenge - https://amzn.to/3y2H49t
The Most Addicting Candied Almonds EVER - https://amzn.to/3IpUdhQ
—Burger n' Kimchi are the most unlikely, wildest husband-and-wife team consisting of Burger (an American Expat living in Busan) and Kimchi (a born and bred Busanite). We absolutely love Busan, South Korea and would like to share a glimpse with you through our own unique lens.
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Learn Korean Ep. 123: ~아/어/etc. 하다 & 싶어 하다
The 아/어 하다 form has more than one use. One of the most common places you'll see it is in the form ~고 싶어 하다, but it can also be used with descriptive verbs to turn them into action verbs.
This form is especially useful when speaking about someone in the 3rd person, which we'll cover how to do in this lesson.
In other news, I think I might need to get a new back scratcher....
Also make sure to get your free PDF version of this lesson (and every lesson in the "Learn Korean" series) by clicking the download link right below this video~!
Click here to download a free PDF of this lesson!
The post Learn Korean Ep. 123: ~아/어/etc. 하다 & 싶어 하다 appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.
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Religion in Korean – The modern and traditional beliefs
In this article, we will discuss Religion in Korean and in Korea including the past and present religions on the Korean peninsula. An interesting fact about the Korean nation is that, unlike many other countries in the world, it does not have an official state religion.
That’s just one of the facts about religions in Korea and we’ll be learning more below. Hopefully, this topic is both educational and fun for you!
How to say “religion” in KoreanThe Korean word for “religion” is 종교 (jonggyo). We will also be introducing you to some Korean vocabulary and sample sentences related to the matter. As we go through this article, you will notice that the Korean words for the specific religions also end with -교 (gyo).
What is the traditional religion in South Korea?Around more than half of Koreans have no religious affiliation, while the rest profess affiliation to one – or more – of the religions present in South Korean culture today. This means that there’s no dominant religion in the country. Instead, there is plenty of room for many of the world’s major religions to exist simultaneously.
The specific numbers change depending on the source and year of research you refer to. Of the traditional religions, Shamanism, Confucianism, and Buddhism have the oldest roots in traditional Korean culture. All of them have also had a large cultural influence in Korea and impacted Korean society as a whole, beyond religious beliefs.
Korean Buddhism (불교)Buddhism 불교 (bulgyo) arrived in Korea in 372 from China and was predominant during the Three Kingdoms period. It was a dominant religious influence that has been shaping the country since then, evidenced by the tens of thousands of temples built across Korea.
Buddhism was also the major religion on the peninsula until Confucianism was founded and considered as the state ideology of the Joseon dynasty. Confucian scholars strongly opposed any efforts to revive Buddhism during this time. Buddhism in Korea evolved slightly into its own form, Korean Buddhism because the monks felt there were some inconsistencies in the “original” version of Buddhism (Mahayana Buddhism) that was brought into the country.
Korean Confucianism (유교)Confucianism 유교 (yugyo), on the other hand, was born during the Joseon dynasty when it was developed by Korean intellectuals, and was the biggest religion for the Koreans for centuries, until the introduction of Christianity.
More so than a religion, Confucian values are viewed as an ethical and moral code by South Koreans and were an important part of the government systems. It especially emphasizes filial piety, loyalty, and ancestor worship. It can be said that of all the different religions in Korea, Confucianism was stronger over South Koreans throughout time.
Korean Shamanism (샤만교)Shamanism 샤만교 (syamangyo) has also been present in South Korean culture since ancient times and has played a significant role in shaping up daily life in South Korea. Shamanistic beliefs have existed in Korea since its founding back in 2333 BC. Until the introduction of Confucianism and Buddhism, it was the sole religion on the Korean peninsula.
Upon the arrival of the two other religions, Korean Shamanism took more of a backseat position. Despite that, it is still surprisingly influential in Korea even today. Meaning, while Korean Shamanism has all but disappeared in other regions upon the introduction of major religions like Buddhism, it has persisted to exist on the peninsula.
Koreans usually visit shamans for advice, perform rituals for good fortune, or ask for talismans to drive away evil spirits from human beings in the natural world. Female shamans are also prevalent in this Korean tradition.
Modern-day religion in South KoreaAlthough Buddhism and Confucianism remain large religions in the modern society of Korea today, with various different factions of Buddhism being practiced among the South Korean Buddhists, there is another big religion present as well.
Christianity (기독교)Christianity 기독교 (gidokgyo), or more specifically, Protestantism has gone major in Korea. This was mainly after the Korean War and with the arrival of American missionaries and Catholic priests to the country. Catholicism was also introduced to Korean culture during the Joseon dynasty, though far later than Confucianism.
Initially, the Korean government at the time prohibited Christianity, as the Catholic converts did not want to follow Confucian rituals. Christians lived in the north where Confucian influence was lesser compared to the south. It was later followed by persecution of Roman Catholics, though the anti-Christian law wasn’t strictly enforced.
However, the introduction of Protestantism and Protestant churches, and then the times after World War II, quickly transformed Christianity into the biggest religion in South Korea. This also results in most Christians belonging to Protestant denominations in South Korea.
Why is Christianity popular in Korea?Christianity has become hugely popular in Korea. Here are a few reasons why.
They place high regard on education and medical services
The first Protestant Korean church was founded in the year of 1897. They quickly gained the interest of Korean people through their services in the medical and educational fields as they established schools and hospitals. Even in today’s South Korea you can find numerous schools (from middle school to university) and medical centers that have direct ties to Protestantism.
This is one reason why Protestantism and Christianity, in general, are seen as such a formidable force in Korea. It has also been statistically proven that, among all the different religious groups in Korea, those of the Catholic faith tend to educate themselves highest. Catholic Church was also the first religious institution that adopted Hangul into official use, and it was mandatory for all of the children to learn.
The nationalism of Korean Christians
A clear sign of Christianity’s popularity is the number of Protestant missionaries coming from the country. Only the U.S. has more missionaries worldwide than South Korea does. One of the most significant factors for Christianity’s popularity lies in Korean nationalism, during a trying time when the Koreans were under Japanese rule, and groups of Christians would show resistance against the Japanese.
Other religions in KoreaVarious other religions also exist in Korea. This includes major world religions like Islam led by the first Korean imam in 1955. There were also local religions, some of them are Won Buddhism, Cheondogyo, and Daejonggyo.
Won Buddhism is a modern religion that is considered reformed Buddhism. Cheondogyo was founded on the basis of Eastern learning which goes in contrast with Western Learning. On the other hand, Daejonggyo was created to worship, Dangun, the founder of the first Korean state. Daoism has also been active in Korea at some points in history.
How do religions affect Korean culture?These religions in general can clearly be seen in daily South Korean life. For example, the aforementioned schools and medical centers with Protestant affiliations. Big exams and events are typically preceded by Buddhist prayer practices and rituals, and Buddha’s birthday is a national holiday celebrated in the country.
And of course, the major holidays Lunar New Year and Chuseok have deep traditions deriving from Korean Buddhism practices. Herbal remedies and some ritualistic-looking dances, which have roots in Shamanism, can still be seen used in traditional settings today.
Religion in North KoreaMuch like South Koreans, North Korean people also follow Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity as their primary religions. However, due to the government discouraging any religious practices by organized groups, these religions are hardly ever practiced. Even so, the country claims to technically have freedom of religion.
Although 300 Buddhist temples exist in North Korea, they are seen more as cultural relics, rather than as places for worship. Some religious educational programs and colleges also exist, but their graduates commonly find work within the field of foreign trade, rather than in religion.
Korean Vocabulary on ReligionNow that you’ve been introduced to the different religions dominating in South Korea, as well as their background, perhaps you would also be keen to learn some related vocabulary?
KoreanEnglish 종교 (jonggyo)Religion 독실하다 (doksilhada),종교적이다 (jonggyojeokida)Religious 유교 (yugyo)Confucianism 불교 (bulgyo)Buddhism 기독교 (gidokgyo)Christianity 가톨릭 교회 (gatollik gyohoe)
Catholic Church 개신교 교회 (gaesingyo gyohoe)
Protestantism 루터 교회 (luteo gyohoe)
Lutheran Church 감리 교회 (gamri gyohoe)Methodist Church 정교회 (jeonggyohoe)Orthodox Church 침례 교회 (chimrye gyohoe)Baptist church 샤만교 (syamangyo),
목속 (moksok)
Shamanism 무신론 (musinron)Atheism 믿음 (mideum)
Belief 충실 (chungsil),
충성 (chungseong)
Loyalty 예배하다 (yebaehada),
숭배하다 (sungbaehada)
Worship 조상 (josang),
선조 (seonjo)Ancestor 민속 (minsok), 전통 문화 (jeontong munhwa)Folklore 종교의 자유 (jonggyoui jayu)Freedom of religion 종교 생활을 실천하다 (jonggyo saenghwareul silcheonhada)
Practicing a religion 종교적인 믿음 (jonggyojeokin mideum)Religious belief 종교에 귀의하다 (jonggyoe gwiuihada)Turn to a religion, be converted X를 믿다 (Xreul mitda)To believe in X religion 종교를 연구하다 (jonggyoreul yeonguhada)To study religion 교회 (gyohoe)Church 예배당 (yebaedang)Chapel 사원 (sawon),
신전 (sinjeon)
Temple 이념 (inyeom)
Ideology 무당 (mudang)
Shaman Sample Korean sentences related to religion KoreanEnglish 종교가 있으세요?
(jonggyoga isseuseyo?)Do you have a religion? 어떤 종교를 믿어요?
(eotteon jonggyoreul mideoyo?)What is your religion? 나는 루터교 신자요.
(naneun luteogyo sinjayo.)I am a Lutheran. 일요일마다 교회에 가서 종교 생활을 실천해요. (illyoilmada gyohoee gaseo jonggyo saenghwareul silcheonhaeyo.)I practice my religion by going to church on Sundays.
What is the top religion or belief systems in your country? Is it similar or different to Korea’s religious systems? We’d also love to know in the comments you telling us a little bit about your religion – in the Korean language, of course!
The post Religion in Korean – The modern and traditional beliefs appeared first on 90 Day Korean®.
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Lunar New Year Promotion
BGN Eye Hospital wishes everyone Happy Lunar New Year!
Lunar New Year is a great time to proceed with Laser Vision Correction surgery!
Why? Because BGN Eye Hospital provides maximum discounts and great promotions for all types of surgeries!!!
- Get 200,000 KRW discount for LASIK/LASEK surgeries
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*PRIME LASEK is excluded from event
Hurry up to book your appointment these holidays as we work on the 29th and 30th of January!
Number of appointments is limited.
Event is valid from the 17th to the 30th of January
For booking an appointment and Lasik consultation please refer to the following details:
Phone: 010-7670-3995
kakao: eye1004bgnbusan
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KakaoTalk_20220113_165513404_01.pngYongjangsa-ji Temple Site – 용장사지 (Gyeongju)
Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site is located up the Yongjanggol Valley in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do. The valley, which is named after the former temple, is the longest and deepest of the valleys on Mt. Namsan. The exact date of the temple is unknown. However, and because of archaeological evidence, we know that Yongjangsa Temple must have existed during the early Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.). We also know that it existed until at least the 15th century because it was where the scholar and poet Kim Si-seup (1435-1493) lived and wrote the Geumo Sinhwa, or “The New Stories of the Golden Turtle” in English.
As for Kim Si-seup, he was one of the saengyuksin, who was one of the six people who, after Danjong of Joseon (r. 1452-1455) lost his throne to King Sejo of Joseon (r. 1455-1468), refused government service in protest. Instead of becoming a government official, he became a Buddhist monk at the age of twenty-one. It was during his journeys as a monk, and as recorded in the Donggyeongjapgi, a passage there states, “…a shrine of Maewoldang [Kim Si-seup’s pen name] is located in the eastern hill on the south side of Mt. Geumo [the former name of Mt. Namsan]. That place is the old site of Yongjangsa, and where Kim Si-seup stayed.” It’s believed that Kim Si-seup wrote Geumo Sinhwa at Yongjangsa Temple from 1465-1470, when Kim was between the ages of thirty-one and thirty-six. The Geumo Sinhwa is a collection of five short stories written in Chinese characters. The collection was Korea’s first collection of short stories. The short stories take the form of fantasy about people experiencing supernatural events.
During Japanese Colonial rule (1910-1945), archaeological evidence was discovered on the temple site with the inscription of Yongjangsa Temple on it. This helped to definitively identify the name of the temple. Currently, the clearings where Yongjangsa Temple once stood occupy some seventy metres from east to west and forty metres from north to south.
In total, the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site is home to three Korean Treasures. These Korean Treasures are the Three-Story Stone Pagoda in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain, which is Korean Treasure #186; the Stone Seated Buddha in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain, which is Korean Treasure #187; and the Rock-Carved Seated Buddha at Yongjangsa Temple Site in Namsan Mountain, which is Korean Treasure #913.
Temple Site LegendIn addition to the historical significance associated with Yongjangsa Temple and Kim Si-seup, the temple was also home to another famous monk. According to the Samguk Yusa, or Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms in English, the monk Taehyeon, who also just so happened to be the founder of the Yuga-jong sect, lived at Yongjangsa Temple. It was his regular practice to walk around a sixteen foot tall stone statue dedicated to Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) in the courtyard of the temple. And the statue of Mireuk-bul would always turn its head to face Taehyeon. This is the very same Stone Seated Buddha in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain that still stands on the temple site grounds to this day.
The Samguk Yusa goes on to detail Taehyeon’s study of the Yuga-jong teachings by the monk. It states, “The doctrines of the Yuga-jong [Consciousness-Only sect] were difficult to understand that a famous Tang poet and other Chinese scholars gave up its study, saying that they were unable to follow the labyrinth of its reasoning. But Taehyeon, by his superhuman wisdom and intelligence, easily mastered it, and soon his mind was enlightened concerning its obscurities, enabling him to perceive what was wicked and corrupt in the light of its revelations. For this reason, all his juniors in the East [Korea] followed his teachings and many scholars in the Middle Kingdom [China] took him as a model.”
The Samguk Yusa goes on to say about Taehyeon, but not about Yongjangsa Temple, that “When rain did not fall as usual…King Gyeongdeok summoned Taehyeon to the inner palace to chant the Geumwang-gyeong [Golden Light Sutra] and to pray for rain. As he was chanting the scripture and offering sacrifices to the Buddha one day, he uncovered his wooden bowl so that it could be filled with water for purification. But the King’s servant was late in bringing the water, and a palace official rebuked him. The servant excused himself, saying ‘The palace well is drained to the bottom and I had to go to a spring deep in the mountains.’
“When Taehyeon heard this, he raised the burning censer in his hands, and fresh, cool water leaped from the palace well seventy feet into the sky in a solid jet like the flagpole at a temple, to the amazement of the King and the palace officials. From that time the well was known as Geumwang-jeong [The Well of Golden Light].”
Temple Site LayoutYou first make your way to the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site up the Yongjanggol Valley. The first seven hundred metres of the journey skirt the side of the deep valley. You’ll then cross over a wooden bridge. It’s here that the trail becomes nearly vertical for the next four hundred metres. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the first ridge that houses Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site. To the left, where the trail forks, you’ll find a stone wall where former parts of the temple once stood. Now, however, you’ll find older earthen tombs.
Back at where the trail forks, and now headed towards the right, you’ll find another clearing where Yongjangsa Temple once stood. Here, and looking up, you’ll finally see the Three-Story Stone Pagoda in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain a further thirty metres up the mountainside. It’s also in this area that you’ll see two pieces of a former stone pagoda. You’ll also get a beautiful view down at the valley that you just hiked.
Now climbing a set of stairs, you’ll come face-to-face with the stunning Stone Seated Buddha in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain. This mid-8th century statue believed to be dedicated to Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) is missing its head. Uniquely, the statue has a small body when compared to the ringed pedestal that it sits upon. The pedestal almost looks like a three-story pagoda. The top level of the pedestal has lotus relief patterns on it. As for the statue, it resembles that of a monk. The robe covers both the shoulders, and it hangs down to the upper part of the pedestal.
Looking up, and past the stone image of Mireuk-bul, you’ll see the Three-Story Stone Pagoda in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain. But before climbing the stairs that will lead you up to this pagoda, you’ll find the Rock-Carved Seated Buddha at Yongjangsa Temple Site in Namsan Mountain to the rear of the Stone Seated Buddha in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain. This rock carving is an image of a seated Buddha. It appears on the face of a rock cliff. This carving is believed to date back to some time between 977 to 1022 A.D. The Buddha appears with curly hair and a gentle smile. The right hand is placed upon its knee, and its fingertips point down towards the ground. Additionally, there is an inscription of ten Chinese characters that are now illegible. Overall, the stone relief is well-preserved.
Finally mounting the steep, side-winding stairs, you’ll finally arrive at the top of this part of the mountain where the picturesque Three-Story Stone Pagoda in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain stands. The three-story pagoda was first constructed during Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.). The base of the pagoda is two-layered with the lower layer made from natural rock. The four corners of each body-stone turns upwards. Unfortunately, the finial is missing from the top of the pagoda. In 1922, the three-story pagoda was rebuilt; however, the sari reliquary inside has long since gone missing. Rather interestingly, the entire mountain looks as though it supports the entirety of the pagoda, as it looks out towards the western part of Mt. Namsan and the city of Gyeongju.
How To Get ThereFrom the Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal, the easiest way to get to Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site is by taxi. When you get into the taxi, you’ll need to ask the driver to take you to “Yongjang Juchajang – 용장주차장” (which is a parking lot for the valley). The taxi ride will take you about ten minutes, and it’ll cost you about 10,000 won (one way). From where the taxi drops you off, you’ll need to walk about nine hundred metres towards Mt. Namsan and the entry of the Yongjanggyegok Valley. Having passed by several stores and houses, you’ll next pass through this part of the Gyeongju National Park system at Mt. Namsan; and more specifically, the Yongjanggol Valley. From the entry of the valley, you’ll need to walk about one kilometre down the long valley. Finally, you’ll find the Seoljang-gyo Bridge to your left. Across this bridge, and up a steep climb, you’ll make your way towards the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site for an additional four hundred metres.
Overall Rating: 8/10The views alone from this part of Mt. Namsan make the journey up towards the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site well worth the trip; but when you add the three Korean Treasures into the mix at the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site, you’ll have more than enough reason to visit this southern part of Gyeongju. The headless Mireuk-bul statue is stunning. And it’s joined by the picturesque three-story pagoda above it. Added all together, and Yongjangsa Temple, when it still operated, must have been one amazing place to have visited. Even still, as a temple site, it’s still a pretty special place to see.
The trail leading up to the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site. The bridge that tells you you’re nearing the vertical climb towards the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site. The lower portion of the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site. Another lower clearing with two parts of a historic pagoda that once stood at the Yongjangsa-ji Temple Site. The amazing Stone Seated Buddha in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain. A fuller look. One more closer look up at the Stone Seated Buddha in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain. The Rock-Carved Seated Buddha at Yongjangsa Temple Site in Namsan Mountain. A closer look at the face of the Buddha. The serene and picturesque Three-Story Stone Pagoda in Yongjangsagol Valley of Namsan Mountain. A different angle. And an up-close with Gyeongju down below. —Dale's Korean Temple Adventures YouTube
Indians React To Raising Legal Marriage Age In India | Street Interview
Other Early Gyo Sects
In addition to the five main Gyo sects that thrived during the Three Kingdoms Period in Korea (18 B.C. – 660 A.D.), there were lesser known Gyo sects that were also established at this time. And while they might have been less popular than the other five major Gyo sects, they survived up until the end of the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). These sects are:
1. Chongji-jong (Esoteric Sect)Jineon, which is also known as Chongji-jong, is a form of Esoteric Buddhism (Vajrayana). The primary text of this sect were the Dharanis. The Dharanis are Buddhist chants, incantations, and/or recitations. And they are Sanskrit or Pali phrases. These phrases can, and were, transliterated into Korean. These phrases are believed to be protective. And they are believed to generate merit for those Buddhist that recited them. Also another name that this sect was known as was the Jinyeom-jong sect.
This sect was first established on the Korean peninsula by the monk Hyetong during the reign of King Munmu of Silla (r. 661-681 A.D.). Rather oddly, Hyetong was influenced to become a monk after witnessing a warning sign from an otter. And later, Hyetong went to Tang China (618–690, 705–907 A.D.), where he searched for the teachings of Śubhakarasiṃha (637-735 A.D.), or Seonmuoe – 선무외 in Korean. Originally, Śubhakarasiṃha said of Hyetong, “How can a person from Silla become an instrument of the dharma?” Afterwards, Hyetong faithfully studied under Śubhakarasiṃha for three years; and yet, his master still refused to give the Korean monk his consent. Angry, Hyetong put a burner on his head and stood in the garden of their temple. Suddenly, Hyetong’s head cracked open with a thundering sound. Śubhakarasiṃha was impressed, so he cured Hyetong with his finger. Hyetong’s wounds healed completely except for a scar that resembled the Chinese character for “king.” Afterwards, Hyetong was known as Wang-hwasang. It was from this point onward that Śubhakarasiṃha started to teach Hyetong all of the secrets and teachings of the sect. Eventually, Hyetong would return to Silla in 665 A.D.
Upon his return to Silla, King Sinmun of Silla (r. 681-692) was suffering from an ulcer on his back. Hyetong was asked to cure this disease. Hyetong then recited a few mantras and cured the king completely. In part, Bongseongsa Temple was created out of appreciation. This sect would grow with the addition of other temples like Chongjisa Temple in Kaeseong. Also, and rather interestingly, there were 8th century scrolls discovered inside Seokgatap Pagoda at Bulguksa Temple that were Dharani texts. These texts are considered the oldest known printed texts in the world.
Seokgatap Pagoda at Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju from September, 2004. 2. Sinin-jong (Mudra Sect)The Sinin-jong sect is a translation of the Sanskrit word for mudra. In English, this sect is known as the Mudra sect, which means “Munduru-jong” in Korean. This sect, which studied ritualized hand gestures, which are known as “suin” in Korean, were the very essence of it teachings. It was first started on the Korean peninsula by the monk Myeongnang during Queen Seondeok of Silla’s reign (r. 632-647 A.D.). It was centred around Geumgwangsa Temple.
Additionally, Myeongnang had a hand in protecting Silla from a Tang invasion. Sacheonwangsa Temple in Gyeongju started to be built after King Munmu of Silla (r. 661-681) consulted Myeongnang about what he should do. Myeongnang told King Munmu of Silla to build a temple, which would be Sacheonwangsa Temple, in an attempt to gain favour from the Buddha to protect Silla. With a force of half a million soldiers, Tang approached the Silla Kingdom from the sea. King Munmu of Silla instructed the yet to be completed Sacheonwangsa Temple, as directed by Myeongnang, to be hidden with silk and grass. King Munmu of Silla then invited twelve prominent monks to perform the Mudra Rite of Esoteric Buddhism. This ritualized work, rather amazingly, resulted in a massive storm in the middle of the sea destroying the invading Tang military ships.
From Sacheonwangsa-ji Temple Site in Gyeongju.Rather interestingly, Myeongnang was a nephew of Jajang-yulsa (590-658 A.D.). Additionally, all three brothers became monks: Gukgyo, Uian, and Myeongnang. Myeongnang went to Tang China in 632 A.D. to study Buddhism. And in 636 A.D., he returned to Silla. After the defeat of the Tang forces, the Sinin-jong sect thrived throughout Silla. Temples dedicated to this sect included Wonwonsa Temple and Dolbaeksa Temple in Gyeongju, and Hyeongseongsa Temple in Kaeseong.
And while Chongji-jong and Sinin-jong were both esoteric in tradition, they developed in Korea as two distinct sects. At the start of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the Chongji-jong sect was absorbed into the Namsan sect, where it was finally joined to the Seon sect. The Sinin sect, on the other hand, was absorbed into the Jungdo-jong sect. Together, they would form the Jungsin-jong sect that was later absorbed into Gyo (the doctrinal sect).
3. Seongsil-jong and Gusa-jong (Lesser Vehicle Sect)Unfortunately, we don’t know who or when the Lesser Vehicle sect was founded on the Korean peninsula; however, we do know that it exerted some power up until the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). This is easily understood from the “Royal Mandate to the Chief Lecturer of the Lesser Vehicle Sect,” or “Dongmun-seon” in Korean, which is divided into two separate schools: the Seongsil-jong sect (Emptiness) and the Gusa-jong sect (Existence). Amazingly, the two sects had two different textual traditions. However, in the royal mandate, they are simply referred, together, as the Lesser Vehicle. As a result, it’s impossible to distinguish one from the other. However, in the opening of the royal mandate, it states, “All dharmas are ultimately empty, only the Mind exists.” From this, we can infer that it’s referring to Seongsil-jong.
However, if we look at another piece of writing; notably, Choe Chiwon‘s “Stone Inscription of National Preceptor Jijeung,” or Jijeung guksa-bi” in Korean, it states, “The Abidalma Daebibasa-ron was the first to be introduced, and the four noble truths were the first to turn the wheel of the dharma. When the doctrine of the Great Vehicle was introduced, the whole country dazzled in the mirror of the one vehicle.” From this, we can understand that the Gusa-jong sect was introduced to the Korean peninsula first.
As for the Seongsil-jong sect, and written in the biography of Wongwang contained in the “Further Lives of Eminent Monks Compiled in Tang,” it states, “After mastering The Treatise that Accomplishes Reality and the Nirvana Sutra, and memorizing them, he was the first to understand The Treatise that Accomplishes Reality…” Wonhyo-daesa also wrote the “Commentary to The Treatise that Accomplishes Reality” in ten rolls. And in the Biographies of Eminent Japanese Monks, it states, “After Bojang of Baekje came to the Eastern Country [Japan], he wrote a commentary to The Treatise that Accomplishes Reality, and as far as lecturing on The Treatise that Accomplishes Reality was concerned, there was nothing that was not based on the scriptures.” This makes it plain that the two schools of the Lesser Vehicle were probably established during both the Silla and Baekje Kingdoms.
4. Cheontae-jong (Tiantai Sect)Cheontae-jong is known as the “Dharma Flower Sect” in English, or more commonly as Tiantai Buddhism. It was transmitted, at this time, to the Korean peninsula by the monk Hyeongwang, who went to Tang China to study the Lotus Sutra. He learned under the second patriarch Nanyue Huisi (515-577 A.D.), who was the teacher of the Great Master Zhiyi (538-597 A.D.). After learning under Nanyue Huisi, Hyeongwang returned to Silla.
Later, the monk Beopyung learned from the ninth patriarch Jingxi Zhanran (711-782 A.D.), and he transmitted these teachings to his disciple Ieung. And Ieung transmitted these teachings to his disciple Sungyeong.
During the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), in an open Buddhist lecture at the newly founded Gukcheongsa Temple, Uicheon (1055-1101) said, “In ancient times the Bodhisattva Wonhyo said that it [Cheontae] was worth praise.” After this speech, Uicheon re-founded Cheontae-jong. And Cheontae-jong and Seon Buddhism, at this time, were called the Two Meditation sects (but more on this later).
Uicheon (1055-1101). (Picture courtesy of Wikipedia) —Dale's Korean Temple Adventures YouTube
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