“With this Great Opening of matter, let there be a Great Opening of spirit.” This was the founding motto of Won Buddhism. Today we find ourselves before \uc6d0\ubd88\uad50 \uad11\uba85\uad50\ub2f9. It is a beacon of this modern Buddhist religion right here in Seoul.
\uc6d0\ubd88\uad50, or Won Buddhism, emerged in Korea. Won means circle in Korean. It symbolizes the unity of the world. It also represents the harmony of all inhabitants. This spiritual practice seeks a balance. It wants scientific and economic progress to align with personal development. Ethical values also matter here.
Founded in 1916 by Sotaesan, Won Buddhism was a response. He saw that materialistic pursuits were overshadowing the human spirit. He advocated a return to spiritual fulfillment and communal living. His vision reformed traditional Buddhist principles. He blended them with contemporary needs.
Sotaesan, born Bak Jungbin, grew up in a poor village. He questioned universal phenomena from a young age. At 25, he claimed enlightenment. Won Buddhists celebrate this as Great Enlightenment Day.
Sotaesan’s thought contained Confucian and Taoist elements. After reading the Diamond Sutra, he found himself drawn to Buddhism. He attracted followers. Early principles included diligence, frugality, and abstinence from alcohol and smoking. Equality and modernization were also key.
In August 1919, nine disciples pledged to follow the movement. They even risked their lives. Their thumbprints on the pledge turned red. This event is known as “The Miracle of the Blood Seal”.
\uc6d0\ubd88\uad50 \uad11\uba85\uad50\ub2f9 started small. It began in 1986 in an apartment. A 교무 began holding 법회 there. In 1988, they moved to a 빌딩. 장인관 교무 became the first 교무 in 1990. In 1991, they relocated to a 단독 필지. Finally, in 2000, they moved to this location.
황은규 교무 became the fourth 교무 in 2005. They strive to realize Won Buddhism’s ideal. They want a world of 낙원.
Won Buddhism emphasizes gratitude. It values enlightenment. It promotes selfless service. It encourages practical application of Buddhist teachings.
Won Buddhists express gratitude for four things. They are thankful for the grace of heaven and earth. They appreciate parents. They value fellow beings. They respect laws.
The practice includes the Threefold Study. It involves cultivating the spirit. It needs inquiry into human affairs. It also requires wise choice in action.
Won Buddhism distinguishes itself through several characteristics. It emphasizes beneficial work for others. Spiritual transformation should parallel developments in the material world. The symbol of Il Won Sang represents the essence of the Buddha’s mind.
Here at \uc6d0\ubd88\uad50 \uad11\uba85\uad50\ub2f9, weekly services are held. They include meditation. There are also hymns and a dharma talk. Won Buddhism promotes equality. It integrates spirituality with daily life. It strives for a world where science and morality coexist.
So, as you leave \uc6d0\ubd88\uad50 \uad11\uba85\uad50\ub2f9, consider the circle. Remember its symbolism. Strive for unity. Seek balance in your own life. Let your spirit open.