Hwaeomsa Temple

SOUTH KOREA, South Jeolla, Gurye

Hwaeomsa, or Avatamsaka Temple, is situated on Jirisan (Unusual Knowledge Mountain). It was the first of the ten temples of the Hwaeom school, and is also the head temple for the 19th district of the Jogye order of Korean Seon Buddhism. It is believed that the temple was built either in 544 during the Silla dynasty by Master Yeongi after he returned from India, or in 754. Since the teaching of the Avatamsaka Sutra was first introduced into Korea by Master Jajang upon his return from China in 644 during the Silla dynasty, the latter founding date is considered to be more probable. The temple underwent major reconstruction by National Master Dousun between the late Unified Silla dynasty (668–935) and the early Goryeo dynasty (918–1392). In 1424 during the Joseon dynasty, it became the head temple of the Seon school. Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598). Master Gakseong rebuilt the Great Hero Hall, Universal Liberation Hall, and Judgment Hall in 1636 during the Joseon dynasty. The Hall of the Enlightened Emperor was rebuilt by Master Gyepa in 1702 with the support of King Sukjong (reigned 1675–1720).
The major buildings within the temple compound include the One Pillar Gate, Diamond Gate, Heavenly King Gate, bell tower, Universal Liberation Hall, Great Hero Hall, and Hall of the Enlightened Emperor, surrounded by a few hermitages. A stone pagoda is on either side of the steps in front of the Great Hero Hall. The hall houses statues of the Trikaya Buddha, including the Dharmakaya (Dharma Body), Samboghakaya (Reward Body), and Nirmanakaya (Manifestation Body).