5.2 The flourishing of Buddhism and its influence on literature
5 min read•august 16, 2024
Buddhism flourished in Goryeo, becoming the state religion with royal support. Temples and monasteries spread across the country, becoming centers of learning and culture. This led to unique Korean forms of Buddhism and influenced art, literature, and daily life.
Buddhist schools like Seon, Gyo, and Jeongto gained popularity, each with distinct teachings. Syncretic movements emerged, blending different schools. Buddhism's influence on literature grew, with Buddhist themes appearing in poetry and prose, shaping Goryeo's cultural landscape.
Buddhism's Rise in Goryeo
State Support and Cultural Integration
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- Buddhism became the state religion of Goryeo received official patronage and support from the royal court and aristocracy
- Tripitaka Koreana created as a national project carved over 80,000 wooden printing blocks with complete collection of Buddhist scriptures
- Buddhist temples and monasteries proliferated across the country became centers of learning, art, and cultural production
- Integration of indigenous Korean beliefs with Buddhist practices led to development of unique Korean forms of Buddhism (Temple Stay programs, Templefood cuisine)
- Foreign Buddhist monks invited to Goryeo facilitated cultural and religious exchange (particularly from Song China)
- Buddhism's popularity among all social classes contributed to widespread influence on Goryeo society and culture
- Shaped art, architecture, literature, and daily life
- Influenced moral and ethical values of the society
Expansion and Dissemination
- Establishment of Buddhist educational institutions spread Buddhist teachings
- Monastic schools trained new generations of monks and scholars
- Public lectures and ceremonies increased lay understanding of Buddhism
- Development of printing technology aided in mass production of Buddhist texts
- Woodblock printing allowed for wider distribution of sutras and commentaries
- Increased literacy rates among the general population
- Pilgrimage routes to sacred Buddhist sites emerged across the Korean peninsula
- Facilitated the spread of Buddhist ideas and practices
- Boosted local economies and cultural exchange
Buddhist Schools in Goryeo
Major Schools and Their Teachings
- Seon (Zen) school emphasized meditation and direct insight into one's true nature as path to enlightenment
- Practiced "hwadu" meditation focusing on key phrases or questions
- Emphasized sudden enlightenment over gradual cultivation
- Gyo schools focused on doctrinal study and philosophical interpretation of Buddhist texts
- (Huayan) school taught the interpenetration and mutual containment of all phenomena
- Cheontae (Tiantai) school emphasized the Lotus Sutra and the concept of "3,000 realms in a single thought-moment"
- Jeongto (Pure Land) school gained popularity taught salvation through faith in Amitabha Buddha
- Practiced recitation of Amitabha's name (nianfo) for rebirth in the Western Pure Land
- Appealed to lay practitioners with its accessible practices
- Vinaya school emphasized strict adherence to monastic rules and discipline
- Focused on proper conduct and ethical behavior for monks and nuns
- Played crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the Buddhist sangha
Syncretic Movements and Esoteric Practices
- Syncretic movements emerged attempted to harmonize teachings of different Buddhist schools
- Integration of Seon meditation practices with Gyo doctrinal study
- Development of "Tongbulgyo" or Syncretic Buddhism unique to Korea
- Esoteric Buddhist practices incorporated into various schools during this period
- Use of mantras and mandalas for spiritual cultivation
- Rituals for protection, healing, and spiritual attainment (Yongsan Jeonghwa-sa Temple's fire ritual)
- Adaptation of Buddhist practices to address practical concerns of the populace
- Rituals for good harvests, protection from natural disasters, and national defense
- Integration of Buddhist and indigenous shamanic practices
Buddhism's Influence on Goryeo Literature
Buddhist Themes in Poetry and Prose
- Buddhist themes and imagery became prevalent in Goryeo poetry particularly in sijo and forms
- Use of Buddhist concepts like and in lyrical expressions
- Nature imagery as metaphors for Buddhist teachings (lotus flowers, moon reflections)
- Prose works proliferated during this period included biographical accounts of eminent monks and miracle tales
- "Lives of Eminent Korean Monks" compiled stories of notable Buddhist figures
- Miracle tales served to popularize Buddhist teachings and inspire faith
- Buddhist sutras translated into Korean made religious texts more accessible to general population
- Vernacular translations allowed for wider dissemination of Buddhist ideas
- Contributed to the development of Korean linguistic and literary traditions
Buddhist Historiography and Philosophy
- Development of Buddhist historiography led to creation of works like "Samguk Yusa" by monk Iryeon
- Integrated Buddhist narratives with Korean historical accounts
- Preserved important cultural and historical information through a Buddhist lens
- Literary works exploring Buddhist philosophical concepts became more sophisticated
- Treatises on emptiness, dependent origination, and Buddha-nature
- Commentaries on major sutras and philosophical texts (Diamond Sutra, )
- Popularization of Buddhist narratives and parables influenced storytelling traditions of Goryeo literature
- Jataka tales (stories of Buddha's previous lives) adapted into Korean context
- Buddhist moral lessons incorporated into popular folklore and legends
Buddhism and the Goryeo Elite
Royal Patronage and Political Influence
- Royal family and aristocracy actively patronized Buddhist institutions funded construction of temples and commissioned religious artworks
- Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto exemplify royal support for Buddhist architecture
- Commissioning of Buddhist paintings and sculptures for merit-making
- Buddhist monks often served as advisors to the king wielded significant political influence in the court
- Monks like Uicheon and Jinul held influential positions in the royal court
- Buddhist concepts of kingship and governance integrated into political ideology
- State examination system included tests on Buddhist scriptures integrated Buddhist knowledge into selection of government officials
- Candidates required to demonstrate proficiency in Buddhist texts and philosophy
- Created a class of scholar-officials well-versed in Buddhist thought
Monastic Power and Social Dynamics
- Royal princes often became Buddhist monks created strong ties between monastic community and ruling family
- Prince Uicheon became a renowned Buddhist master and reformer
- provided alternative path for royal family members
- Buddhist rituals and ceremonies incorporated into state functions reinforced religion's role in governance
- National protection rituals performed by monks for the state's welfare
- Buddhist ceremonies marking important events in the royal calendar
- Accumulation of wealth and land by Buddhist monasteries sometimes led to tensions with secular aristocracy and attempts at reform
- Monasteries became major landowners and economic powers
- Periodic attempts to limit monastic wealth and influence (King Gongmin's reforms)
- Buddhist institutions provided social services and education
- Temples operated as schools, hospitals, and social welfare centers
- Contributed to the spread of literacy and cultural refinement among the elite
Key Terms to Review (17)
Compassion: Compassion is a deep awareness of the suffering of others, coupled with the desire to alleviate that suffering. In literature influenced by Buddhism, compassion emerges as a fundamental virtue that emphasizes empathy, kindness, and moral responsibility towards all beings. This theme resonates strongly within various narratives, driving characters' motivations and shaping their actions as they seek to cultivate understanding and support for one another.
Dahui zonggao: Dahui zonggao is a prominent figure in the history of Chan Buddhism in China, known for his emphasis on direct experience and meditation. He played a crucial role in the development of the Chinese Zen tradition, significantly influencing not only Buddhist practices but also literature and artistic expressions during his time. His teachings advocate for the importance of awakening through personal experience rather than relying solely on scriptures, which shaped how Buddhist ideas were represented in various literary forms.
Emptiness: Emptiness is a central concept in Buddhist philosophy, often interpreted as the absence of inherent existence in all phenomena. This idea suggests that things do not possess an independent, unchanging essence, but rather exist in relation to other factors and conditions. Understanding emptiness can lead to a profound shift in perception, helping individuals see beyond the illusions of permanence and self, which is essential for achieving enlightenment.
Gasa: Gasa is a longer form of Korean poetry that emerged during the Joseon Dynasty, characterized by its narrative and lyrical qualities. It often explores themes of love, nature, and social commentary, reflecting the cultural and historical context of the time.
Goryeo Dynasty: The Goryeo Dynasty was a Korean dynastic kingdom that lasted from 918 to 1392, known for its cultural achievements, the flourishing of Buddhism, and the establishment of a unified Korean identity. This period was significant in shaping Korean literature and arts, influenced by both Chinese culture and local traditions.
Heart Sutra: The Heart Sutra is a fundamental text in Mahayana Buddhism that encapsulates the essence of Buddhist teaching on emptiness (śūnyatā) and the nature of reality. It is known for its concise form and profound depth, emphasizing that form is emptiness and emptiness is form, reflecting the interdependence of all phenomena. This sutra has significantly influenced Buddhist thought and literature, especially in the context of its flourishing across Asia.
Hwaeom: Hwaeom is a term derived from the Korean Buddhist concept of 'huayan,' which refers to the interpenetration of all phenomena and the idea that everything is interconnected. This concept emphasizes the non-duality of existence and the profound unity within diversity, influencing not only Buddhist philosophy but also Korean literature, where it inspired themes of harmony, nature, and the human experience.
Impermanence: Impermanence refers to the concept that all things are transient, constantly changing, and ultimately destined to fade away. This idea is central in both Buddhist philosophy and much of Korean literature, reflecting a deep awareness of life's fleeting nature and the inevitability of change. It encourages a perspective that appreciates the momentary aspects of existence while recognizing that nothing lasts forever.
Joseon Dynasty: The Joseon Dynasty was a Korean dynastic kingdom that lasted from 1392 to 1910, marking a significant period in Korean history characterized by political stability, cultural advancement, and the development of Neo-Confucianism as a guiding philosophy. This era played a pivotal role in shaping Korea’s literature, culture, and social structure, influencing various aspects of life that are still relevant today.
Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that describes an object or action in a way that isn’t literally true, but helps explain an idea or make a comparison. By linking two seemingly unrelated things, metaphors enhance the meaning and emotional resonance of literature, allowing for deeper cultural and philosophical insights.
Monastic life: Monastic life refers to a religious way of living that is dedicated to spiritual practice, asceticism, and community living, often within a monastery. It encompasses a structured lifestyle focused on discipline, meditation, and adherence to religious rules, significantly influencing the development of Buddhism and its cultural expressions.
Symbolism: Symbolism is a literary device that uses symbols to represent ideas, concepts, or emotions beyond their literal meaning. In various forms of literature, including poetry and prose, symbolism enhances the depth and richness of the narrative by imbuing objects, characters, or events with layered significance that resonates with the reader's understanding and experience.
Tale of Sim Cheong: The Tale of Sim Cheong is a classic Korean folktale that tells the story of a devoted daughter named Sim Cheong who sacrifices herself to save her blind father and ultimately wins his sight and her own happiness. This tale reflects the deep-rooted values of filial piety and compassion prevalent in Korean culture and highlights the influence of Buddhism on literature through its themes of sacrifice, redemption, and moral lessons.
Temple stays: Temple stays are programs offered by Buddhist temples that allow individuals to experience monastic life, including meditation, rituals, and teachings. These experiences provide insight into the spiritual practices of Buddhism and foster a deeper understanding of its cultural significance, particularly during the flourishing of Buddhism in Korea and its impact on literature.
The Diamond Sutra: The Diamond Sutra is a key Buddhist text that emphasizes the concept of emptiness and the importance of transcending attachment to material existence. As one of the most influential scriptures in Mahayana Buddhism, it has significantly shaped Buddhist thought and practices, as well as inspired various literary works throughout history, reflecting its deep impact on culture and philosophy.
The Tale of Hong Gildong: The Tale of Hong Gildong is a classic Korean story that tells the adventures of Hong Gildong, the illegitimate son of a nobleman who seeks acceptance and recognition in society. This tale is significant as it embodies cultural values, critiques social hierarchies, and explores themes of identity, justice, and the search for belonging, connecting deeply with cultural narratives and traditions.
Wonhyo: Wonhyo was a prominent Korean Buddhist monk and philosopher during the Silla Dynasty, known for his efforts to integrate Buddhist teachings with indigenous Korean beliefs. His works significantly shaped Korean Buddhism and its literature, highlighting the importance of enlightenment and spiritual practice while influencing narratives and cultural identity.