Jungbong Seongpa, Supreme Patriarch

The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism

The barley field within the bamboo fence is clear, untainted by dust,

The moon over the hill shines through the half-open window.

As the incense fades, a gentle breeze stirs the incense in the burner,

Dewdrops on pine branches startle the crane from its dream.

O assembly of Seon practitioners entering the summer retreat!

We have commenced the intensive retreat in accordance with the ancient Buddha’s teachings.

The splendor of the assembly at Vulture Peak is manifested on this earth, with the assembly pure, the lay supporters devoted, and the monastic community harmonious in their administrative and spiritual roles.

We refrain from leaving the monastery gate and devote ourselves entirely to hwadu practice so that we may clearly perceive the inherently enlightened foundation of our mind. Only by accomplishing this perfectly can we repay our benefactors’ kindness and fulfill our great vows to save all sentient beings.

The retreat assembly must strive with all their heart, as urgently as if extinguishing a fire on their head; the lay supporters must watch over and protect them with care so that nothing hinders their practice; and the devout lay followers must focus on their practice wholeheartedly.

A drizzle falls on the mountain overnight,

A hundred flowers bloom in brilliant splendor.

A gentle breeze blows from the distant woods,

A subtle fragrance fills the valley