Friday, May 21, 2010

Happy Birthday Buddha!

석가탄신일 (Seokga tansinil), meaning "the day of Buddha's birthday" or 부처님 오신 날 (Bucheonim osin nal) meaning "the day when Buddha arrived". Lotus lanterns cover the entire temple throughout the month in anticipation...








We decided to check out the temple that is located about a mile from our apartment. We originally had plans to go down south and visit one of the oldest and biggest temples in the country, but we decided not to at the last minute. We were thinking we should save the money for next week when my parents arrive from the US.

The temple was decorated beautifully. The whole park that encircles it was covered in lanterns as well and in the distance you can hear the concert and fair at City Hall. As you walk in the lanterns illuminate the korean folk musicians in their traditional garb. Unfortunately we arrived just as they were finishing their concert so I do not have video. Monks are sprinkled about the crowd with shoes off and seated on the ground. Hundreds of people observe the singing and tour the temple. The main temple where many go to pray is open to the public to enter, but only if you take off your shoes. I went in to take pictures and was able to observe several families and some monks bowing and praying. It was interesting to say the least.


I hope you enjoy the pictures we took. You can find more in our online gallery, but here is a sampling. :)

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