Tragic Fire Claims Life of Revered Monk Da Seung at Chiljangsa Temple

Tragic Fire at Chiljangsa Temple Claims the Life of Revered Monk Da Seung

Chiljangsa Temple, South Korea – In a devastating fire that broke out at Chiljangsa Temple, 69-year-old Monk Da Seung tragically lost his life. The funeral procession and memorial service were held at Yongju Temple, the headquarters of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, with over 1,500 attendees.

Funeral Procession and Attendees

The funeral procession began with the transportation of Monk Da Seung’s remains in a vehicle, circling Yongju Temple. Attendees included Kim Dong-yeon, the Governor of Gyeonggi Province, and Hong Ki-hyun, the Chief of Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police Agency. Additionally, more than 1,500 Jogye Order officials and followers were present.

Expressions of Grief and Reflection on Monk Da Seung’s Legacy

During the memorial service, participants expressed their condolences and reflected on Monk Da Seung’s significant contributions and unfulfilled aspirations. Yoon, one of his disciples, highly praised his achievements within the Buddhist community, while Park acknowledged the difficulty of self-sacrifice and recalled Monk Da Seung’s goal of enlightening sentient beings.

Commitment to Carry Forward Monk Da Seung’s Spiritual Legacy

Jin Woo, the General Affairs Director of the Jogye Order, conveyed the heavy responsibility that remains with the followers and pledged to continue walking the path of Buddha’s teachings, following in the footsteps of Monk Da Seung. The memorial service concluded with devotees offering incense and flowers at the memorial hall and performing prostrations in the main hall.

Investigation into the Fire Incident

Last month, a fire broke out at Monk Da Seung’s residence, known as Yosachae, resulting in his untimely death. The Jogye Order determined that Monk Da Seung’s act of self-immolation in front of the Buddha constituted a sincere offering. The police are conducting a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the fire based on the results of a thorough inspection conducted on the 30th of last month.

Mourning and Funeral Preparations

While the funeral service took place at Seoul Jogyesa Temple, gunshots were heard at Yongju Temple. Some devotees followed the sound of the gunshots, offering condolences and paying respects in the Daeungjeon Hall. Despite the suddenness of Monk Da Seung’s passing, devotee Lim prepared with the hope that he would find peace and solace.

Remembering Monk Da Seung’s Great Virtues and Spiritual Legacy

As investigations continue, the Jogye Order and its followers mourn the death of Monk Da Seung, reflecting on his immense contributions and the spiritual legacy he left behind.