The Inner Lives of Korean Monks
Almost entirely cut off from the world, enclosed by mountains that resemble the petals of a lotus flower, lies one of the jewels of Korean Buddhism. As winter melted into spring, I lived alongside the monks, privileged to witness their daily lives and rituals.
“Temple of the Spreading Pine”
Looked upon as one of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea and renowned for its teaching of dharma — the eternal law of the cosmos, inherent in the very nature of things — today Songgwangsa is one of the foremost temples in the world for practising Korean Buddhism.
In search of spiritual awakening, monks, pilgrims, believers and tourists all find their way here, to learn, meditate and exchange ideas.
Around 1190, Jinul, who was a master of seon, the Korean variant of Zen, stopped in front of an abandoned temple at the centre of a mountainous valley, where an abundant stream was flowing. He planted his stick in the ground and announced to his followers that in this place — from then on known as Gilsangsa — they were going to build a new temple.
Get free access to
all stories.
Enter your email address,
and get an instant sign-in link.
Already have an account? Sign in
Essential cookies only.
We only use cookies that are necessary for signing in and hiding this notification. Nothing more. We do not track you using cookies.