Uisang
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Uisang | |
|---|---|
| Hangul: |
의상
|
| Hanja: |
義湘
|
| Revised Romanization: | Uisang |
| McCune-Reischauer: | Ŭisang |
Uisang (625 - 702) was one of the most eminent early Silla scholar-monks, a close friend of Wonhyo (元曉).
He traveled to China, studying at Mt. Zhongnan as a student of the influential Huayan master Zhiyan (智儼) and as a senior colleague of Fazang (法藏). He became an expert in Huayan (華嚴) doctrine and was the founder of the Korean Hwaeom school. Most well-known among his writings is the Hwaeom ilseung peopkye to(Chart of the Avata ṃsaka Single Vehicle Dharmadhātu) (華嚴一乘法界圖).
He is famous for his travel to Tang with his friend Wonhyo. Before reaching Tang, however, Wonhyo leaves Uisang, after drinking the water off of a skull. Dismayed, but nonetheless determined, Uisang continues on his journey to Tang by himself. He travels China, deepens his knowledge, but at the same time, spreads his new knowledge in Buddhism.
Just before Uisang prepares for the return to Silla, a daughter of a wealthy family who helps Uisang, falls in love with Uisang. Uisang, a monk, cannot stay behind with the girl, since he is determined to return to Silla and share his learnings. The girl, heartbroken, follows him to the ocean and promises Uisang that she will die and become a dragon, in order to ensure Uisang's safe passage home.
Safely arrived in Silla, Uisang goes on to found Puseoksa, a temple in the mountain. The dragon is said to have became a rock behind the temple to continue protecting the site and her lover, Uisang.
