Geungnakbojeon Hall of Sinheungsa Temple

After passing through Bojeru Pavilion, there is a small dharma hall called Geungnakbojeon. It is the Main Buddha Hall, with three panels in the front and on the sides, that enshrines Amitabha Buddha as the principal deity. This building’s distinctive feature is these decorative flower-patterned door frames.

Pieces of wood are carved into flower patterns. On top, things like birds, turtles and fish were added. The designs are blended to create the overall appearance.

On the front steps, do you see the dragon’s eyes on the handrail? They’re eye-catching, right? This virtuous dragon, with its huge eyes, is the protector of this hall. Next to it is an elf sitting atop clouds.

In the dharma hall, you can see Amitabha Buddha in the center, with the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Bodhisattva of Great Compassion) on the left, and Bodhisattva of the Great Power of Wisdom (Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva) on the right. These statues appear well-balanced and healthy. Amitabha Buddha’s mudra and flowing robes were carved beautifully. It was created by a sculptor monk called Muyeom in 1651, during the Joseon Dynasty period. We are fortunate to know this information because the sculptor’s name and the year a statue was carved are often unknown.