Chiljangsa Temple七長寺

Chiljangsa Temple, located at the foot of Chilhyeonsan Mountain, is said to have been founded by Monk Jajang in the 5th year of Queen Seondeok's reign during the Silla Dynasty. It was rebuilt by State Preceptor Hyeso in 1014 during the Goryeo Dynasty by royal decree. The names Chiljangsa and Chilheonsan originated from a legend that State Preceptor Hyeso, while staying here, enlightened seven wicked individuals and transformed them into wise men. Located deep within the Charyeong mountain range, the temple also played a role in history when, in 1383, due to the invasion of Japanese pirates, the Annals of the Goryeo Dynasty, which were kept at Gaechonsa Temple in Chungju, were moved to Chiljangsa and stored there for eight years, thus avoiding destruction. It was completely burned down during a Japanese pirate invasion in 1389, falling into ruins, and is said to have been rebuilt by Heungjeong in 1506. Later, in 1623, Queen Inmok designated it as a prayer temple for her father, Kim Je-nam, and her son, Grand Prince Yeongchang, and it is said that she greatly expanded and rebuilt the temple. Within the temple grounds, there are many designated cultural properties, including Daeungjeon Hall and National Treasure No. 296, Obulhoe Gwaebultaeng (hanging scroll painting of the Five Buddhas), as well as the Stele for State Preceptor Hyeso and an iron banner pole (cheoldanggan). Additionally, several oral traditions are passed down at Chiljangsa. There remains an archery ground where Gung Ye is said to have spent his childhood, practicing archery until the age of 10. There is also the story of the Kkeokjeong Buddha, dedicated by the righteous bandit Im Kkeok-jeong to the cobbler monk Byeonghae Daesa. Furthermore, a legend tells that before taking the civil service examination, Royal Secret Inspector Park Mun-su prayed in the Na han-jeon (Arhat Hall) and fell asleep. In his dream, an Arhat appeared and taught him the passages for the examination, enabling him to pass with top honors. Consequently, it is a place frequented by many people who pray for success in their exams.