Janggyeong

Janggyeong is a term that can refer to several distinct things, primarily within Korean culture. Most commonly, it denotes the Janggyeong Panjeon, the principal repositories of the Tripitaka Koreana, located at Haeinsa Temple in South Korea. These wooden printing blocks, carved between 1237 and 1248, contain over 80,000 Buddhist scriptures and are considered a significant cultural and historical artifact, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The preservation of these blocks is a testament to Korean craftsmanship and dedication to Buddhist texts.

Beyond the physical printing blocks, Janggyeong can also refer to the collection of Buddhist scriptures itself, the Tripitaka Koreana. This vast compilation of Buddhist teachings, rules, and commentaries is one of the most comprehensive and well-preserved versions of the Tripitaka in existence. Its creation was a monumental undertaking, reflecting the religious fervor and scholarly achievements of the Goryeo Dynasty.

In a less common usage, Janggyeong might also be encountered as a personal name or a place name in Korea, though these instances are less widely recognized than its association with the Tripitaka Koreana. The primary significance and widespread recognition of the term "Janggyeong" remain firmly tied to the Haeinsa Temple repositories and the sacred texts they house.