Introduction


“When walking towards Baegundae Peak of Mt. Bukhansa, Doseonsa, the thousand-year-old temple which has kept the spirit of patriotism in Buddhism, comes into view. At the entrance are two giant rock tablets: ‘The Compassion Gate’ and ‘The Heaven and Earth Gate.’ On these tablets are written “Jabi Mujeok,” and “Bangsaeng Doryang”, which mean “Compassion is unbeatable,” and “The Temple of Mercy.”

“Still further up on the roadside comes “Iljuseok,” two standing rocks carved with, “Samilsu Simcheonjaebo Baengnyeontammur Iljojin.” That is, “The mind practiced for three days will be treasured for a thousand years, whereas a hundred years of materials gathered out of greed will become dust overnight.”

“Doseonsa has long offered a place of comfort to passersby as it wishes for peace and enlightenment. Furthermore, since the time of the Silla Dynasty over a thousand years ago, whenever any crisis has erupted in the country, this traditional temple has offered its assistance, sharing in the suffering of the Korean people.


The Buddhist teaching of Doseonsa espouses, “When cultivating the compassionate mind, there is neither ‘You’ nor ‘I’ in the world, and then society will be equal without borders or race discrimination.” We, Doseonsa of Mt. Samgaksan, offer our prayer for everyone in the world to attain enlightenment and peace.