Monk Dukjo Publishes Essays and Photos from 15 Years at Burilam Hermitage
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Dukjo, a senior disciple of the late Venerable Beopjeong, has published Mu-eonhwa (Silent Flower), an essay and photo collection reflecting 15 years at Burilam (a mountain hermitage). The book mixes short morning reflections on practice—daily chores like hand-washing robes as part of monastic discipline—and intimate photographs taken with a camera gifted by Beopjeong. Dukjo recounts obeying his teacher’s instruction to devote a decade to solitary practice at Burilam, capturing transient natural moments (the ‘‘chara’’, or fleeting instants) and pilgrim scenes, and writing after early-morning ceremonies. He describes practice as “letting go” and living each day as a whole life; the book evokes the calm, austere spirit of Beopjeong while showing Dukjo’s own gentle voice and photographic eye. The collection closes with Dukjo’s return to Gilsangsa temple after 15 years, carrying a renewed “re-entering ordination” mindset to lead the community.
