Sacheonwangmun, the Gate of the Four Heavenly Guardians, of Gwaneumsa

[Curator]

After passing through “Iljumun,” the One Pillar Gate, “Sacheonwangmun,” the Gate of the Four Heavenly Guardians comes into the view. This is a place where, once you attain enlightenment and Buddhahood, even the heavenly beings that manage all four directions – the east, the west, the north and the south - in heaven will honor you and learn Buddha-dharma from you. In 1948, this gate was burnt down during the April 3rd Massacre in Jeju, where many locals were killed in a time of violent political instability. It was finally rebuilt in 1973.

The four heavenly guardians are always nearby the Buddha, protecting him. So, anyone who’d like to pay homage to him must pass through the gate first. That’s why the gate was built there.

King Dhrtarastra of the east, in blue, holds a sword in his left hand, and either makes a fist or holds a gem with his right. King Virudhaka of the south, in red, has a dragon in his right hand and a Mani gem in his left one. King Virupaksa of the west, in white, has a trident and a stupa. At last, King Vaisravana of the north, in black, has a lute.

[Visitor]

It makes me feel a little bit solemn. On the other hand, I also want to try those poses.

[Curator]

Many people are scared of their facial expressions, but you may not be when you consider why they are there. The guardians just want you to put down all your worldly desires and worries before going into the temple.