The Buddhist Headquarters of the Jogye Order, established 1,700 years ago, was moved into the center of Seoul to provide a place of meditation in the busy city.  Have you noticed it’s not easy to meditate when you are cold.  It was freezing!  But we were grateful we hadn’t come the week before when it was 17 degrees below zero.

The Hall of the Great Hero, Daeungjeon at Jogyesa Temple was covered in symbols and artwork, beautiful and fascinating. The tree on our left is Baeksong,  a 500 year old Lacebark Pine Tree.  It has been preserved as a Korean Natural Asset.

About 50% of Koreans profess no religion.  Our guide told us that these are the enlightened ones.  Of the remaining 50%, about 60% are Christian, just under 40% are Buddhist, with small numbers of other religions. This temple was filled with women.  Our guide explained it was testing time in the schools so the mothers were there praying for their children to be successful.

The Golden Buddha Triad (Samjonbul) is huge and dazzling in person. The central Buddha gained enlightenment through aesthetic practices, the one on the left represents the future and on the right, the past.  All three combine into one consciousness. There were many women kneeling in prayer and meditation before them.

Outside, there were ferocious dragons in many forms around the grounds to protect the temple.  Each one was so unique and detailed.  I wanted to take them home with me.

Just write down the details of what it is you wish for:   health, wealth, happiness, success. Then with your donation, slip it in the slot.  If you are a true believer, you will surely get what you want.  Give and receive.  This laughing Buddha was so happy, cheerful and welcoming that everyone approached him.  

Every dusk and dawn the giant Dharma Drum and Temple Bell fill the air with a sound that resonates from the heavens deep into your soul and those who can unload their mind’s heavy burden, even for a moment, can realize their dream of a happy life.