Chungbong Seongpa, daejongsa

Supreme Patriarch of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism

How diligently did you practice during the winter retreat?

With the hwadu vividly present amidst great doubt,

A west wind suddenly stirs the pine trees in the courtyard,

A lone crane soars through the boundless sky.

The monastic sangha at Seon monasteries across Korea has successfully completed the winter retreat. All have confined themselves behind the closed mountain gates and strived single-mindedly to break through the hwadu, thus attaining the wisdom and capacity of a great enlightened master who can liberate all beings from the three realms of samsara.

Now, with the capacity to act as compassionate parents to sentient beings, the monastics step out of the mountain gates and create a field of merit for all. It is a cause for celebration—the pine trees dance and the stream sings songs of praise.

This supreme accomplishment was made possible by the immense merits and support of the outside community, as well as the karmic affinity of the practitioners who encountered the supreme practice.

Sitting upright on the meditation cushion and practicing diligently dispels ignorance, revealing pure wisdom and virtue, much like a bright moon reveals itself when the clouds disperse. 

Monastics now leaving the mountain gate!

If the beings connected to you through karma in the secular world ask about the spring tidings of Mount Yeongchuksan, how shall you answer? What lies within your traveling sacks?

Barley shoots spring forth vigorously after enduring the severe cold of winter. The tranquil waters of Lake Bogyeong reflect the majesty of Mount Yeongchuksan.

Though my lifelong aspiration remains unfulfilled,

After enduring hardship, I finally find the Way.

Gazing anew upon the Vajra Altar,

Crimson plum blossoms in the ancient temple now stand as a forest.