This Hambai (which means commandment stone, I think) states that everyone passing by Jongmyo should get off his horse to respect his ancestors’ honor. The Jongmyo Shrine (nearby) is dedicated to the spirits of Korea's royal ancestors. The royal family of the Joseon Dynasty (1394 to 1910) paid homage to their forefathers in the time-honored Confucian tradition. In February 1413 the custody department recommended this sign of respect for officials, of both high and low rank, and commoners passing by Jongmyo that they should get off of their horses. This memorial stone was erected in October 1633, the forth year of King Heonjong. It stands at 132 cm high, 58 cm wide and 20 cm long.
The inscription reads “All should get off their horses when they arrive here”.
I would have added exclamation points myself, but I'll concede that that is a matter of personal style.
1 comment:
Well said.
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