Sammun of Yongjoosa


“Upon entering Yongjoosa, one may notice that its entrance is a bit different from other temples. Like palaces or loyal tombs, one must pass the Sammun. The Sammun, or Three Gates, of Yongjoosa clearly illustrate the background of the temple’s establishment.”

“Sammun are most often used at palaces or ancestral shrines, and are characterized by the servants’ quarters which are laid out along the sides of the door. Since Yongjoosa enshrines the tablet of Prince Sado, it is considered to be part of a royal tomb or palace.”

“The entrance to the Sammun of Yongjoosa has three doors; two side doors on the east and west and a main door at the center. A sign board written by Sunhwan Ahn, a famous calligrapher who wrote under the pen name Jungnong, stands at the main door and displays his impressively delicate yet strong writing style.”

“The top section of the four pillars of the Sammun is made of wood, while the bottom is made of stone, and each pillar is exceptionally tall and large. Upon each of these pillars is written a poem beginning with the four letters of Yong Joo Sa Bul. The poem goes like this…”

“While a dragon was hiding in the midst of shining clouds, it acquired a legendary precious mani-gem and began to play tricks. However, when it arrived at the temple gate, it learned about Seon, or goodness and virtue, and came to save sentient beings under the teachings of the Buddha.”

“In front of the Sammun of Yongjoosa are two mystical unicorn lions, which were thought to stop the spread of fire. These animals were humorously carved with simple, thick lines, so that they seem to reflect the tranquility of our people.”