Cheonchuksa Temple (Seoul)

Cheonchuksa Temple is a traditional temple under the direct jurisdiction of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism (Nowon No. 9-1), with a history of over 1,300 years. During the Unified Silla period in 673 (the 13th year of King Munmu), Master Uisang founded the temple and called it Okcheonam due to the exceptionally clear water. During the Goryeo Dynasty, the Indian monk Zhigong told Monk Naong, 'The scenery here resembles Yeongchuksan Mountain in Cheonchukguk (present-day India).' Later, in 1398, King Taejo Yi Seong-gye performed a 100-day prayer at Okcheonam and founded the Joseon Dynasty. In the 7th year of King Taejo's reign, the temple was rebuilt, and he bestowed the name Cheonchuksa, using the characters for 'heaven' (cheon) and 'country name' (chuk), meaning 'a peaceful place where the Buddha always resides.' Cheonchuksa Temple was directly involved by the royal court, being rebuilt in 1474 (the 5th year of King Seongjong) by royal command. During the reign of King Myeongjong, Queen Munjeong donated a Hwaryuyongsang (Treasure No. 366, currently stored in the Buddhist Central Museum) to be used as an altar. In 1812 (the 12th year of King Sunjo), Gyeonghak rebuilt it as a royal prayer hall. It was renovated in 1959 and underwent several subsequent reconstructions, maintaining its current appearance. Cheonchuksa Temple is a fundamental sanctuary that has continued the tradition of pure practice, having rebuilt Korea's first Mumungwan (a meditation hall without a gate) in 1964.