*Pic Source: Buddhist newspaper, Korean temple food, Jogye Order, Jinje website
If you have recently had a busy and hectic day, experience a Korean temple stay. The temple stay allows you to experience Buddhist culture and a special opportunity to find your inner peace. The experiences at the temple stay provide you with spiritual and cultural enrichment. See what activities, etiquette, and attire you should wear when visiting or staying in Korean temples.
A temple stay involves engaging in various practices that are part of monastic life. These activities are designed to help visitors focus on mindfulness, personal reflection, and spiritual growth. Here are some typical activities you’ll encounter during a temple stay:
Seon Meditation (left) / Yebul (right)
Seon Meditation (선): Also known as Zen meditation, this practice focuses on stillness and breathing to clear the mind and calm the body. You sit in a cross-legged position and concentrate on your breath, letting go of distractions and stress.
Yebul (예불): This is a Buddhist chanting ceremony that typically takes place in the morning and evening. Participants gather in the temple hall to recite scriptures and chants, creating a serene atmosphere of devotion and unity.
Baru Gongyang (발우공양): This is the traditional temple meal, eaten in silence to practice mindfulness. The meal is served in a specific ritualistic manner, emphasizing gratitude and avoiding waste. Participants eat from special bowls called baru and are encouraged to finish all the food they are given.
108 Prostrations (108배): This is a spiritual exercise involving 108 deep bows, each representing letting go of a specific desire or attachment. Though physically demanding, the practice is meant to cleanse the mind and promote inner clarity.
108 Prostrations (left) / Baru Gongyang (right)
When visiting or staying at a temple in Korea, it’s important to follow proper etiquette to show respect for the sacred space and the people who live there. Here are some key guidelines:
Respect the Silence: Temples are places of quiet reflection, so it’s important to minimize noise. Speak softly, and avoid loud conversations, especially during meditation and ceremonies.
Remove Your Shoes: Always remove your shoes before entering any temple hall or sacred area. This is a sign of respect and cleanliness. Many temples provide shoe racks or slippers for use inside.
Bow When Greeting: When greeting monks or other temple residents, a small bow is appropriate. It’s a sign of respect and acknowledgment of their spiritual practice.
Use Two Hands: When offering or receiving anything (such as food, tea, or gifts), always use both hands to show respect and gratitude.
odesty and comfort are key when dressing for a temple visit or temple stay in Korea. Here's what you should keep in mind:
Modest Clothing: Avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as sleeveless tops or shorts. Shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. Temples are sacred spaces, so dressing conservatively shows respect.
Loose, Comfortable Clothes: You’ll likely spend a lot of time sitting or meditating, so wear loose, comfortable clothes that allow for easy movement. Most temples will also provide simple temple garments (vests and pants) for visitors to wear during their stay.
No Bright Colors or Flashy Accessories: Stick to neutral or muted tones. Bright colors or extravagant accessories may distract from the peaceful, meditative environment of the temple.
In the next post, we will learn about one of the most famous temple stays in our country, Golgulsa Temple. Please look forward to it!
