'Hyeojeong Leading the Monk Army' (1976, by Park Gwang-jin). Hyeojeong (1520~1604), a great monk of the mid-Joseon Dynasty, at the age of 73, led the recruitment and command of 5,000 monk soldiers (monk volunteers) when the Imjin War broke out. He made significant contributions to repelling the Japanese invaders, including the recapture of Pyongyang Castle. 

The history of Korean Buddhism has paralleled the history of defending the nation. The spirit of national salvation embodied by Monk Sa-myeong and Monk Seo-san, who shed their monastic robes to become monk soldiers in times of national crisis, is deeply ingrained in the DNA of our people. 

The fervent cry that saved the nation from imminent crisis over 400 years ago is now being called upon to be revived through a modern form of mobilization.

In the face of this historical call, I have taken on the role of the first commander, laying the groundwork for the National Defense Monk Army (호국승군단) and charting its future course. 

Through this column, I aim to shed light on the vows and the essence of the national defense spirit that I established when founding the National Defense Monk Army. I will also explore the significance of religious vows in national security and social cohesion in contemporary society. 

The Birth of the National Defense Monk Army: 2017, Vows of National Salvation Bear Fruit

I have consistently posed the fundamental question to myself: 'What should Buddhism do in the face of national crisis?' moving beyond mere practice in mountain temples. 

Especially in 2017, as security crises escalated and social divisions deepened, I determined that a central point was desperately needed to unite the patriotic energy scattered across the Buddhist community.

In this process, I found common ground with General Park Hee-do (former Chief of Staff of the Army and former Chairman of the Republic of Korea Veterans Association), who has dedicated his life to national security. 

Joining hands with General Park and founding the National Defense Monk Army based on the spirit of founding a military was a historic event where the monastic and secular realms united under the shared value of national security. 

The National Defense Monk Army finally took shape through the combined wisdom of General Park, a spiritual pillar of the military, and my own monastic vows. At that time, I made the following three vows:

First, spiritual armament. I aim to become a spiritual pillar that instills a correct sense of nationhood and ethics in modern individuals swayed by materialism and individualism. Reminding people of the simple truth that there is no religion without a nation is the first duty of our monk soldiers.

Second, healing social conflicts. In Korean society, where conflicts between ideologies, generations, and classes are deepening, I will walk the path of a mediator, leading reconciliation with Buddhism's spirit of compassion and the logic of harmony and dispute resolution (화쟁).

Third, practical national defense. We aim to be an organization that contributes substantially to national development through practical service, including disaster relief, security education, and support for the underprivileged. This is a modern form of defense, akin to the past monk soldiers wielding weapons.

With Gentle Charisma and the Spirit of 'Hwa-jaeng'

As the first commander, my actions are rooted in 'gentle charisma' and the spirit of 'Hwa-jaeng' (harmony and dispute resolution).

While strengthening the solidarity within the monastic community, I am also striving to foster close cooperation with civilian, government, and military entities, ensuring that the National Defense Monk Army becomes a national asset for the peace and well-being of all citizens, not just a group that exclusively represents the interests of a particular religion.

In particular, military proselytization and strengthening the mental resilience of soldiers are areas to which I dedicate the most effort. I personally meet with soldiers from front-line units to rear-area training centers, listening to their struggles. 

I believe that sowing the seeds of peace and patriotism in the hearts of young soldiers is the most certain and noble investment for the future national security. A strong military is not only built on advanced weaponry but also on the unwavering spirit of those who wield it.

Unceasing Vows and a Historical Calling

The National Defense Monk Army, for which I laid the foundation, is now preparing for a greater leap beyond its founding purpose. Although the path taken since its establishment in 2017 has not been smooth, I pray every day that the seeds I have sown will grow into a strong tree, providing a refreshing shade of national salvation to the people whenever the nation faces difficulties.

My conviction is clear: "Practitioners should not only be in the mountains but also on the front lines where the people's suffering is." 

Like the teachings of the venerable monks who wept and rejoiced with the people during times of calamity, I believe this practical pursuit of enlightenment is the only way for religious individuals to fulfill their social responsibilities.

Moving forward, I and the National Defense Monk Army will not forget our founding spirit and will further illuminate the lamp of compassion and wisdom amidst the rapidly changing international landscape and the security crisis in Northeast Asia. 

This is the living dharma bestowed upon me and an unavoidable calling as a practitioner living in this era. 

◆ Monk Eungcheon

Head of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism

First Commander of the National Defense Monk Army