Geumsansa Temple: Cheonwangmun Gate

[Narration]
In order to protect Buddha and prevent the entry of evil sprits from outside, Cheonwangmun Gate is a chamber enshrined with the Sacheonwang (the four outside protectors). The phrase Oehoshin means: the spirits protecting and guarding the fringes of paradise from all sides: from the north, south, east, and west respectively.

However, the overriding meaning here refers to a cleansing of trials and frustrations from the follower’s mind, unifying his/her mind in order to achieve devotion.

In 1994, Geumsansa Temple’s Cheonwangmun Gate was recreated, as the temple was undergoing a re-modification.

So, let’s examine everything here one by one in a clockwise direction.

The first thing that we see on our left is the Deva Jeungjangcheonwang.

Jeungjangcheonwang is pointing towards the right with a dragon in his right hand, and holding a cintamani (jewel) in his left. With his strikingly fierce eyes, he has the role of reviving all things.

In front of this, the Deva Gwangmokcheonwang controls the western side, holding a trident in his right hand and a tower in his left. He bestows pain on any evildoers and promotes moral consciousness.

Located opposite this and pointing towards the north, is the Deva Damuncheonwang. Your gaze is drawn to the image of him playing a bipa (Korean mandolin). Damuncheonwang saves all those wandering in darkness.

Lastly, the Deva Jigukcheonwang points towards the east, holding a sword in his right hand with his left clenched into a fist. He bestows good luck onto those who do good, and punishment onto those who do the evil.

Next let’s move over to the Dangganjiju Pillars, Geumsansa Temple’s first treasure.

The Dangganjiju Pillars are located about fifty meters away from Geumgangmun Gate to the northeast.