Minjung Buddhism

Definition

Minjung Buddhism is a social and political movement within Korean Buddhism that emerged in the late 20th century, emphasizing the liberation of the marginalized and oppressed in society. This form of Buddhism seeks to integrate spiritual practices with social justice, addressing the struggles of ordinary people, particularly during periods of political oppression and economic hardship. It connects deeply with the concept of minjung, which refers to the common people, emphasizing their voices and experiences in a religious context.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Minjung Buddhism gained prominence during South Korea's democratization movement in the 1980s, responding to the needs of those suffering under authoritarian rule.
2. Key figures in Minjung Buddhism include prominent monks and scholars who advocated for social justice and human rights, blending traditional Buddhist teachings with contemporary social issues.
3. The movement often employs elements of traditional Korean spirituality, merging them with Buddhist philosophy to resonate with the cultural identity of the Korean people.
4. Minjung Buddhism has been influential in creating a bridge between religious practice and activism, encouraging Buddhists to engage directly with social issues like poverty and inequality.
5. The impact of Minjung Buddhism extends beyond Korea, inspiring similar movements in other countries that seek to incorporate social action into religious life.

Review Questions

• How does Minjung Buddhism connect with the struggles faced by marginalized groups in society?
  • Minjung Buddhism specifically focuses on the liberation and empowerment of marginalized groups by emphasizing their experiences and struggles. It seeks to address social injustices that affect ordinary people, aligning spiritual practices with activism. This connection enables a dialogue between Buddhist teachings and the realities faced by these communities, fostering a sense of hope and agency among them.
• In what ways does Minjung Buddhism differ from traditional forms of Buddhism?
  • Minjung Buddhism diverges from traditional forms by integrating social activism into its practice. While conventional Buddhism often emphasizes personal enlightenment and meditation, Minjung Buddhism prioritizes collective liberation and addressing societal issues. This approach is rooted in the cultural context of Korea's historical struggles, aiming to make Buddhist teachings relevant to contemporary social challenges rather than solely focusing on individual spiritual pursuits.
• Evaluate the significance of Minjung Buddhism in shaping modern Korean society and its relevance to global movements for social justice.
  • Minjung Buddhism plays a crucial role in modern Korean society by intertwining religious beliefs with social justice advocacy. Its emergence during South Korea's democratic movements illustrates how spiritual practice can galvanize collective action against oppression. This significance extends globally as it resonates with movements advocating for social change, showing that faith can be a powerful force for justice. By blending traditional teachings with contemporary issues, Minjung Buddhism inspires similar frameworks in other cultures seeking equitable solutions.

Related terms

Minjung: A Korean term meaning 'the masses' or 'the common people,' often used to denote those who are marginalized or oppressed in society.

Engaged Buddhism: A movement within Buddhism that emphasizes applying Buddhist teachings to social, political, and environmental issues, advocating for social change.

Seon (Zen) Buddhism: A school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and direct experience of enlightenment, influencing various aspects of Korean Buddhist practices.