Yeongsanjeon, the Hall of Disciples or Arhats, of Bongeunsa

[Curator]

The Hall of Disciples or Arhats has the best view in Bongeunsa. It enshrines the Sakyamuni Buddha. Behind him, there is a Buddhist painting called Sinjung Taenghwa, where the guardian devas of Buddha-dharma are depicted.

[Visitor]

Okay, I see. Who are those statues?

[Curator]

Inside the Hall, the Sakyamuni Buddha is in the middle, and there are eight Arhats on each side, for a total of sixteen. Nahan is a shortened version of Arhats (阿羅漢) which refers to an awakened one who is worthy of people’s offerings, as he attained enlightenment without any afflictions. If you look at each one closely, they all have different looks and expressions. Some have their hands on their laps, while another holds a sutra in his right hand. It is quite interesting to look for their differences. If you look for Arhats who resemble yourself or your future among the sixteen, it will be more fun, yet also more meaningful.

[Visitor]

Let me look for Arhats who look like me.