Beomeosa
Beomeosa, meaning 'Temple of the Nirvana Fish,' is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Busan, South Korea, and a head temple of the Jogye Order. Established in 678 CE, it is renowned for its Seon Buddhist spirit and its historical role in defending against foreign invasions, earning it the title 'Great Headquarters Temple of Seon Buddhism.' The temple complex features several designated treasures and is situated amidst the scenic beauty of Geumjeongsan mountain.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 678 CE during the Silla period.
- ›One of the three major temples in southeast Korea.
- ›Known as the 'Great Headquarters Temple of Seon Buddhism'.
- ›Home to several designated national treasures, including a three Story Stone Pagoda and the Daeungjeon main hall.
- ›Monks from Beomeosa are historically noted for defeating Japanese invaders.
- ›Participates in the Templestay program, offering cultural immersion for visitors.
Important Relationships
- Wonhyo (monk associated with Wonhyoam hermitage)
- King Munmu (decreed establishment)
- Ven. Myojeon (monk involved in renovation)
- Ven. Haemin (monk involved in renovation)
- Seon Master Gyeongheo (opened Seon center)
- Seongwol (abbot who established Seon centers)
- Master Jiyu (first spiritual patriarch of Geumjeong Chongnim)
Jogyemun, Daeungjeon, Three Story Stone Pagoda, Wild Wisteria, Geumsaem
- Founded In 678 Ce During the Silla Period.
- Destroyed By Fire During the Japanese Invasion .
- Renovated In 1613.
- Became A Seon Center In 1900.
- Designated A Geumjeong Chongnim In 2012.
Unified Shilla Era, Joseon Dynasty
About Beomeosa
Beomeosa Temple
Beomeosa (범어사), translating to 'Temple of the Nirvana Fish,' stands as one of the principal temples of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and is situated on the slopes of Geumjeongsan mountain in Busan, South Korea. It is recognized as one of the country's most significant and well-known Buddhist establishments.
History and Significance
Established in 678 CE during the Silla period by decree of King Munmu, Beomeosa was initially one of ten major temples of the Avatamsaka School. The temple's name is derived from a local legend about a golden fish residing in a mystical pool, the Geumsaem, on the mountain peak. Despite suffering extensive damage during the Japanese invasions of 1592–1597, it was later renovated in 1613, with structures like the Main Buddha Hall and the One Pillar Gate dating from this reconstruction period. Beomeosa is distinguished by its strong Seon Buddhist tradition, earning it the title 'Great Headquarters Temple of Seon Buddhism.' Historically, monks from Beomeosa are noted for their bravery in defending against foreign invaders.
Notable Features and Hermitages
The temple compound boasts several structures and objects designated as national treasures and cultural assets. These include the Jogyemun (One Pillar Gate), the Daeungjeon (Main Temple Hall), and a Three Story Stone Pagoda from the Unified Shilla era. The surrounding area is known for its extensive wild wisteria, historically called 'Wisteria Blossom Valley.' Beomeosa also presides over numerous hermitages, such as Wonhyoam, named after the famous Silla monk Wonhyo, and Kyemyongam. The temple continues to be a center for serious Buddhist practice and in 2012 became one of eight comprehensive monastic training complexes for the Jogye Order.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of the name Beomeosa?
Beomeosa translates to 'Temple of the Nirvana Fish'. The name originates from a legend about a golden fish living in a mystical pool called Geumsaem ('golden fountain') on Geumjeongsan mountain.
What are the most significant treasures at Beomeosa?
Notable treasures include the Daeungjeon, the main temple hall built in 1614, a Three Story Stone Pagoda dating from the Unified Shilla era, and the Iljumun or 'One Pillar Gate'. Other cultural assets include flag pole holders and a stone lamp from the Shilla period.
What is the history of Beomeosa in relation to invasions?
Beomeosa was nearly destroyed during the Japanese invasions of 1592–1597. Monks from the temple are historically recognized for their role in defeating Japanese invaders during that period and again during the Japanese occupation of Korea in the early 20th century.
Does Beomeosa offer visitor experiences?
Yes, Beomeosa participates in the Templestay program. This allows tourists to stay at the temple, experience Buddhist monk cuisine, and engage with the monks' daily routines.
What is Beomeosa's significance in Korean Buddhism?
Beomeosa is a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and is considered one of the three major temples in southeast Korea. It is recognized for its strong Seon Buddhist spirit and serves as a comprehensive monastic training complex.
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