108 Sangwol Ascetics Embark on 1,167km Indian Pilgrimage... "Praying for National Well-being and Happiness"

Waking Up at 2 AM to Walk 25 km Daily Pilgrimage... Visiting 8 Major Sacred Sites in India and Nepal

[Asia Economy Reporter Seo Mideum] The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is organizing the ‘Sangwolgyulsa India Pilgrimage,’ hosted by the Buddhist organization Sangwolgyulsa, embarking on a 43-day journey from the 9th of this month to the 23rd of next month. Sangwolgyulsa is an organization founded by Monk Jaseung, former head of the Jogye Order’s General Affairs Office, aiming to promote Buddhism and harmony in the Republic of Korea. Since 2020, it has continued initiatives such as the ‘National Crisis Overcoming Compassion Pilgrimage’ and the ‘108 Cheonri Pilgrimage of the Three Jewels Temples.’

Hosang, the chief monk of the Buddhist group Sangwol Gyeolsa, who will embark on a 1,167 km pilgrimage on foot for about 40 days in India and Nepal, is explaining the purpose of this pilgrimage at a press conference held on the morning of the 7th at the Korean Buddhist History and Culture Center in Jongno-gu, Seoul. [Image source=Yonhap News]

According to the press conference held on the morning of the 7th at the Korean Buddhist History and Culture Memorial Hall in Jongno-gu, Seoul, the pilgrimage group consisting of 108 members will travel through India and Nepal from the 9th of this month to the 23rd of next month. Under the banner of ‘Respect for Life, Walking the Path of Buddha,’ they will walk 1,167 km while performing walking meditation, Buddhist services, 108 prostrations, and prayers.

Jogye Order spokesperson Monk Jongho stated, “Respect for life is the noble value we must uphold, as it is the path to saving all life,” adding, “We will walk following the footsteps of the Buddha, reflect on his teachings, and pray that they be widely known throughout the world.”

He continued, “We will pray for the development and revival of the Republic of Korea, and for the well-being and happiness of all people in Korea and India,” and “We hope that difficulties and suffering will disappear from the global community, which is facing issues such as war and climate crises, and that all people will be happy.”

This pilgrimage, held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and India, involves waking at 2 a.m. for Buddhist services and walking, covering 25 to 30 km daily. The group will visit eight major sacred sites in India and Nepal, including Bodh Gaya, where Sakyamuni attained enlightenment.

They will mainly camp at local schools and also stay at Hindu temples, police stations, and wedding halls. While they plan to mostly relieve themselves in nature, managing sanitation for female pilgrims remains a challenge. The organizers are considering using screens or temporary tents.

Regarding security, Monk Jongho said, “We have agreed with the governments of India and Nepal to receive support from local police,” and added, “We are paying close attention to security issues.”

Addressing various challenges, pilgrimage leader Monk Hosan said, “We have prepared extensively for food, water, security, and restroom facilities,” but emphasized, “Difficulties encountered locally are part of the practice, as pilgrims faced similar challenges during the Buddha’s time. The most important thing is one’s mindset.”

The departure ceremony will be held at 6 a.m. on the 9th in the front yard of the Daeungjeon Hall at Jogyesa Temple.