Myobeobyeonhwagyeong(1991)

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.1081

Category

Books & Records

Era

1399년

Designated year

1991

Location

용산구, 서울특별시— 서울특별시 용산구 서빙고로 137 (용산동6가, 국립중앙박물관)

Coordinates

37.524041, 126.980350

Saddharmapundarika Sutra (Lotus Sutra) is the principal scripture of the Cheontae Order of Korean Buddhism. The main idea of the book is that the way to become a Buddha is open to everyone. Along with the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra), this sutra was a principal scripture that wielded great influence on the establishment of Buddhist thoughts in Korea. This book was translated into Chinese by Kumarajiva of the Later Qin, annotated by Jiehuan of the Song Dynasty, and printed on mulberry paper with woodblocks in 1399 (first year of the reign of King Jeongjong of the Joseon Dynasty). Volumes 1 to 3 and Volumes 4 to 7 are bound in a book, which measures 15.9 cm wide and 27.2 cm long. At the end of Volume 7 is a record written by Nam Jae, a meritorious subject at the founding of the Joseon Dynasty. According to the record, Haerin published this book with the donation of Jeong Cheon-ik and Yi Yang. In addition, the first page of Volume 4 is stamped “Hakjo,” suggesting that this book was originally owned by a Buddhist monk named Hakjo. This book was printed with woodblocks carved in small letters very elaborately. It is the same edition as the woodblock-printed book among the Excavated Relics from the Wooden Seated Child Manjusri of Sangwonsa Temple in Pyeongchang (Treasure No. 793). It is regarded as a precious material in researching Buddhist history as well as bibliography.

Location