Teacher of the Law, Won Gwang
People these days use any means they can to achieve their goals. Children may disrespect their parents, the preciousness of life is easily overlooked, and friends can easily turn into enemies. If Korea wants to restore its image as a country of good manners and piety, it must find an answer not in material things but in spiritual ones. Filial piety, friendships based on trust, and respect for life are the timeless values that were taught by the renowned monk and scholar Won Gwang. His universal teachings continue to live on even after a thousand years.

Monk of royal ancestry
Historic documents are split on when monk Won Gwang was born and when he died. Some say he died at age 98, while others say he passed away at age 99. “The History of the Three Kingdoms” says that Won Gwang studied Buddhism in 589. Won Gwang’s relative Kim Dae-mun sparked controversy for describing Won Gwang’s birth in the “Annals of Hwarang.” He wrote that Won Gwang was the illegitimate son of Princess Suk-myeong and her lover, with whom she ran away from her husband.

Studying in the west
Won Gwang presumably went to study to in China in 589 when he was about 34 years old. Won Gwang is said to have left his home to become a Buddhist monk at age 13. He read extensively about Taoism and Confucianism and studied scriptures and history. His name was already very famous in Silla when he decided to go study in China to discover the world. While in China, Won Gwang tried to find answers to his questions. One day he happened to attend a lecture at a Buddhist temple where he learned about Buddha’s teachings. It was an enlightening experience that opened Won Gwang’s eyes to the meaning of life.

After finishing his studies in China, Won Gwang returned to Silla in 600. He was welcomed by people and even the king. Won Gwang spared no effort to help the Mahayana form of Buddhism take firm root in Silla. He wrote books on Buddhism in easily understood terms to help the common people get a better grasp on his thoughts. Won Gwang also did his utmost to train young students and put all donations toward building temples. His robe and bowl were the only things that he left after his death.

Five Commandments for Secular Life


These timeless principles ring true not only for Buddhists but for everybody living in this world. They carry a profound meaning and combine the principles of Confucianism and Buddhism. Monk Won Gwang played a pivotal role in establishing Buddhism in Silla and helping people understand Buddha’s wisdom. His teachings continue to hold the answers to many moral questions to this day.