Boinjae is the hanging wooden plaque of the hall in Munhoedang, the outer quarters of Samgye Seowon Academy, in Samgye-ri, Bonghwa-eup, Bonghwa-gun. The term ‘Boin’ was taken from a passage in “Yan Yuan” of the Analects of Confucius, in which the philosopher Zeng said, “The superior man on grounds of culture meets with his friends, and by friendship help his virtue. [君子 以文會友 以友輔仁]” Samgye Seowon Academy was established upon the general opinion of local Confucian scholars to commemorate the learning and virtues of Gwon Beol (1478-1548, pen name Chungjae) in 1588 (21st year of King Seonjo) and was royally bestowed the name of ‘Samgye’ taken from its location in 1660 (1st year of King Hyeonjong). It was restored later in 1951 after being pulled down upon the decree of Heungseon Daewongun ordering the demolition of Seowons and Shrines in 1868 (5th year of King Gojong). The outer quarters was added by Gwon Yu, the fourth descendant from Gwon Beol. The faithful mind and virtuous deeds of Gwon Beol had long been admired by many people including Yi Hwang, who expressed his respect for Gwon’s righteous spirit and courageous decision to save others in a volatile situation.
The calligraphy of the hanging wooden plaque is written in the square style by an unknown hand. The brushwork skillfully arranges thick strokes and thin strokes to compose vigorous characters. The generous outer space is not hollow but filled with pure energy. The reposeful posture of ‘仁’ is reminiscent of the feeling of relaxation in one’s true friendship.