Songgwangsa Temple, Suncheon

Site details

Songgwangsa Temple, known as a "Sangha Jewel" temple for producing 16 national preceptors (Guksa), was founded at the end of the Silla period. It gained prominence during the Goryeo period when National Preceptor Bojo Jinul led a purification movement in Korean Buddhism, significantly expanding the temple. Songgwangsa preserves numerous cultural heritages, including the Portrait Hall of the 16 National Preceptors, the Hwaeomgyeong Byeonsangdo depicting the teachings of the Avatamsaka Sutra, and the intricately carved Wooden Triad Buddha Shrine. It is regarded as one of Korea's Three Jewel Temples, along with Tongdosa in Yangsan and Haeinsa in Hapcheon. Songgwangsa Portrait Hall of the 16 National Preceptors This hall houses the portraits of 16 eminent monks who have brought honor to the nation, celebrating their virtues. Initially a meditation hall, its architectural style reflects the early Joseon period. Believed to have been constructed around the same time as Songgwangsa's Hasadang Hall (a national treasure), it is a significant structure showcasing the mid-Joseon period Jusimpo style with its simple and modest design. Songgwangsa Hwaeomgyeong Byeonsangdo This illustrated depiction of the "Seven Places and Nine Assemblies" from the Avatamsaka Sutra is of significant historical value due to its faithful and effective representation of the teachings. The planned and structured composition, use of red, green, and gold on an ochre background, and the incorporation of relief techniques in the adornments of Bodhisattva Nosana Buddha reflect the vibrant and ornate tendencies of 18th-century Buddhist paintings. Songgwangsa Wooden Triad Buddha Shrine A Buddha shrine, or Bulgak, is a small structure made to enshrine a Buddha statue, crafted from wood, stone, or metal. These shrines provide insights into the architectural styles of their times in addition to the styles of the statues they enshrine. The Wooden Triad Buddha Shrine at Songgwangsa, although small, is highly detailed and meticulously crafted, demonstrating exceptional sculptural techniques. It is considered a rare exampleAMong the surviving shrines in Korea. Songgwangsa is home to a pair of ancient juniper trees, designated as Natural Monument, estimated to be around 800 years old. Standing about 12 meters tall, the two trees grow side by side with their trunks twisted intriguingly. According to legend, National Preceptors Bojo and Damdang planted their juniper walking staffs here upon returning from China, which then took root and grew into trees. The intertwined appearance of the trees is said to symbolize the respectful relationship between the teacher and his disciple, with one tree bowing to the other. The juniper trees at Songgwangsa hold both cultural and biological significance, warranting their protection as natural monuments.