Uisang: The Founder of the Korean Hwaeom School
Uisang (625–702) stands as one of the most influential scholar-monks of the early Silla period in Korea. A master of Buddhist philosophy and a prolific temple builder, he played a pivotal role in importing and establishing the Huayan (known in Korea as Hwaeom) school of Buddhism, which emphasizes the interpenetration of all phenomena in the universe.
Key Facts
- Lifespan: 625–702 AD.
- Primary Contribution: Founder of the Korean Hwaeom school.
- Major Work: The Beopseongge (Hwaeom ilseung beopgye do).
- Key Association: Close friend and contemporary of the monk Wonhyo.
- Legacy: Known as the "Temple Builder" for his extensive establishment of religious sites.
Academic Journey and the Huayan Doctrine
Uisang's pursuit of wisdom led him to Tang China, where he immersed himself in the study of Buddhist metaphysics. He studied at Mount Zhongnan under the guidance of the influential Huayan master Zhiyan. During this time, he also formed a lifelong professional correspondence with Fazang, another senior colleague and prominent figure in the school.
Through these studies, Uisang became an expert in Huayan doctrine. Upon returning to Korea, he founded the Hwaeom school, adapting these complex teachings for the Silla people. His most celebrated literary contribution is the Beopseongge, also known as the Hwaeom ilseung beopgye do (Diagram of the Avataṃsaka Single Vehicle Dharmadhātu). This text serves as a commentary on his haein do ("Ocean Seal"), a mandala-like diagram consisting of 210 Chinese characters that encapsulate the essence of Huayan philosophy.
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The Journey to China with Wonhyo
Uisang's path to enlightenment was shared initially with his close friend, Wonhyo. Their journey to Tang China was fraught with difficulty; at one point, they were captured by border guards and detained for ten days under suspicion of being spies before eventually being expelled.
The paths of the two monks diverged when Wonhyo experienced a sudden spiritual awakening. After unknowingly drinking water from a skull in the dark, Wonhyo realized that truth is found within the mind, rendering the physical journey to China unnecessary. While Wonhyo returned to Silla, Uisang remained determined to complete his formal studies, eventually reaching China by sea.
Legend of Myo Hwa and Buseoksa Temple
Korean folklore adds a romantic and supernatural dimension to Uisang's life. According to tradition, as a young man, Uisang loved a woman named Myo Hwa ("Delicate Flower"). Their relationship was severed when the King of Silla selected Myo Hwa to be sent as a gift to the Chinese Emperor, an event that prompted Uisang to enter the monastic life.
Legend says that Myo Hwa, in a state of desperation during her journey, attempted suicide by jumping into a river. She was rescued and adopted by a local family. Years later, she reunited with Uisang in China, but he explained that his commitment as a monk prevented him from returning to Silla with her. He promised to visit her once his studies were complete.
When Uisang finally returned to Silla ten years later, he missed Myo Hwa by a narrow margin. In her desperation to follow him, she leapt into the sea and was magically transformed into a dragon. She followed his ship back to Korea and later helped Uisang establish Buseoksa, a temple in the Gyeongsangbuk-do mountains. The name Buseoksa means "Floating Rock," referring to a legend where Myo Hwa, in dragon form, lifted a boulder into the air to scare away bandits. It is said she eventually transformed into a rock to eternally protect the temple and Uisang.
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Summary of Uisang's Life and Legacy
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Name | Kim (Father: Hin-sin) |
| Religious School | Hwaeom (Huayan) |
| Key Text | Beopseongge (Hwaeom ilseung beopgye do) |
| Key Diagram | Haein do (Ocean Seal) |
| Notable Temple | Buseoksa (Floating Rock Temple) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Uisang?
Uisang was a prominent Silla scholar-monk (625–702) who founded the Korean Hwaeom school of Buddhism after studying the Huayan doctrine in Tang China.
What is the Beopseongge?
The Beopseongge is a commentary on Uisang's haein do (Ocean Seal) diagram. It uses 210 Chinese characters to express the core essence of the Huayan Buddhist doctrine.
How did Uisang's journey differ from Wonhyo's?
While both initially traveled to China, Wonhyo had a sudden enlightenment experience and returned to Silla, believing that wisdom is found internally. Uisang continued his journey by sea to complete his formal education under Master Zhiyan.
Why is Uisang called the "Temple Builder"?
He earned this title due to the significant number of Buddhist temples he either established or expanded throughout his lifetime in Korea.
What is the legend behind Buseoksa Temple?
Buseoksa, or "Floating Rock Temple," is linked to the legend of Myo Hwa, who transformed into a dragon to follow Uisang to Silla and later used her magic to lift a boulder to protect the site from bandits.