Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 27
Photo Credit: Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Gilt-bronze Amitabha Buddha Statue of Bulguksa Temple
(Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
🏯 1. The Buddha of Infinite Light and Compassion
Within the tranquil halls of Bulguksa Temple, facing east toward the morning sun, sits the Gilt-bronze Amitabha Buddha Statue — a radiant symbol of mercy and enlightenment.
Created during the Unified Silla period (8th century), this statue represents Amitabha (the Buddha of Infinite Light), who welcomes all beings into the Western Paradise, a realm of eternal peace. To the people of Silla, Amitabha embodied the hope of salvation and rebirth in the Pure Land, guiding souls from suffering toward liberation.
The golden figure glows softly under temple light, its serene expression inviting stillness and compassion in all who stand before it.
🪨 2. Artistic Harmony and Detail
The statue, cast in gilt bronze, stands about 1.66 meters tall. Every aspect — from the gentle folds of the robe to the tranquil face — reflects the profound artistry of Silla’s metal sculptors.
The hands are raised in the gesture of meditation and blessing (abhaya mudra), expressing calm assurance and benevolent protection. The soft smile conveys boundless compassion, while the balanced composition evokes both physical perfection and spiritual tranquility.
Compared with the Vairocana Buddha of the same temple, this Amitabha figure conveys a more personal and emotional warmth — the tenderness of a Buddha who listens to human sorrow.
🌄 3. Light as Salvation
In Buddhist tradition, Amitabha’s light is said to reach across the universe, saving all who call upon his name with sincerity. The Silla artisans translated this belief into form: the luminous gold surface and gentle downward gaze evoke the Buddha’s light descending upon the world.
This statue is not just an image of faith but a visual prayer — a message that redemption and peace can be found within the quiet light of compassion.
Standing before it, one feels that this Buddha does not gaze down from heaven, but rather meets the eyes of humankind with empathy.
🌿 4. Preservation and Legacy
For over twelve centuries, the Gilt-bronze Amitabha Buddha Statue has watched over Bulguksa Temple in silence. Though centuries of history have passed, the statue’s golden hue still glows softly, carrying the devotion of the people who once knelt before it.
Designated National Treasure No. 27, it remains one of Korea’s finest examples of Buddhist sculpture — a work where artistry and spirituality meet in perfect harmony. Together with the Vairocana Buddha, it completes Bulguksa’s dual expression of enlightenment and compassion — the two wings of the Buddhist heart.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“In the gentle light of Amitabha, sorrow finds rest.
The Buddha’s smile tells us that compassion, not distance,
is what truly bridges the worlds between suffering and peace.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉National Heritage Portal