E2024-G037

Yaksaam Hermitage: A Sacred Site of the Medicine Buddha on Mudeungsan Mountain

Narrative

Located on Mudeungsan Mountain, Yaksaam Hermitage is said to have been founded by the Buddhist monk Doyun (798-868, also known as Seon master Cheolgam). It was designated as a Gwangju Cultural Heritage Material in 1984 and is currently affiliated as a branch temple of Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon. The main worship hall of the hermitage, Daeungjeon Hall, was constructed in 1980. Enshrined inside is a stone seated Buddha, which was designated a Treasure in 1975. This statue represents the Medicine Buddha (Bhaisajyaguru), believed to heal illness and prolong life, and is estimated to have been created in the 9th century.