The Temple of Haeinsa, Gaya-san

Founded in 802 CE under King Aejang of Silla, Haeinsa became one of Korea's most significant Buddhist sites when it received the Tripitaka Koreana in 1398. The temple represents the Dharma Jewel in Korea's Three Jewel Temple system and has maintained continuous monastic practice for over 1,200 years, surviving invasions, fires, and wars.

In the early ninth century, two monks returned to Silla Korea from Tang China, bearing teachings and practices that would transform Korean Buddhism. Suneung, of royal Daegaya descent, had studied the Avatamsaka Sutra and esoteric Buddhist rituals. His disciple Ijeong accompanied him.

Traditional accounts tell that when King Aejang's wife developed a tumor that no physician could cure, Suneung and Ijeong were summoned. They tied a silk thread from the tumor to a nearby tree and began chanting esoteric verses. The tumor transferred to the tree, which withered and died while the queen recovered. The grateful king ordered a temple built on Mount Gayasan, in the style of the Chinese temples where Suneung had trained.

Historical records by Choe Chi-Won, writing in 900 CE, suggest the founding involved royal patronage through a queen dowager who had converted to Buddhism. Whether miraculous healing or political alliance sparked the construction, by 802 CE Haeinsa had begun its centuries-long residence on the mountain.

The name Haeinsa derives from Suneung's lineage. His teacher Sillim had studied with Uisang, the monk who first brought Avatamsaka teachings to Korea. The Ocean Seal Samadhi from which the temple takes its name was not merely a philosophical concept for these practitioners. It was the goal of their lives.