Tripitaka Koreana

Definition

Tripitaka Koreana, also known as the Palman Daejanggyeong, is a complete collection of Buddhist scriptures carved onto over 80,000 woodblocks during the 13th century in Korea. This monumental work serves as an important religious and cultural artifact, reflecting the craftsmanship and dedication to Buddhism in Korean history while influencing the development of book arts and printing techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tripitaka Koreana is composed of three main sections: Vinaya Pitaka (rules for monastic discipline), Sutta Pitaka (Buddha's discourses), and Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical and doctrinal analysis).
2. It was created under King Gojong of the Goryeo Dynasty to preserve Buddhist teachings and counter the influence of other religions during a turbulent period in Korean history.
3. The Tripitaka Koreana is recognized for its exceptional quality, precision, and aesthetic value, showcasing advanced woodblock printing techniques and meticulous attention to detail.
4. This collection survived invasions and wars, notably the Mongol invasions in the 13th century, making it one of the oldest complete Buddhist texts still in existence.
5. Tripitaka Koreana was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, highlighting its significance as a cultural treasure and a symbol of Korea's dedication to preserving Buddhist heritage.

Review Questions

• How does Tripitaka Koreana exemplify the intersection of religion and artistry in Korean culture?
  • Tripitaka Koreana exemplifies the intersection of religion and artistry by showcasing not only the depth of Buddhist teachings but also the intricate craftsmanship involved in its creation. The woodblock printing process required skilled artisans to carve detailed images and texts with precision. This dedication reflects a cultural commitment to both spiritual practice and artistic expression, illustrating how religious texts can serve as important cultural artifacts.
• In what ways did the creation of Tripitaka Koreana influence subsequent book arts and printing methods in Korea?
  • The creation of Tripitaka Koreana significantly influenced subsequent book arts and printing methods in Korea by setting a high standard for quality and precision in woodblock printing. Its successful production demonstrated the capabilities of this technique for mass-producing texts, encouraging further experimentation with printing methods. As a result, Tripitaka Koreana paved the way for advancements in both artistic design and printing technology that would shape Korean literature for generations.
• Evaluate the cultural impact of Tripitaka Koreana on Korean identity and its role in preserving Buddhism throughout history.
  • The cultural impact of Tripitaka Koreana on Korean identity is profound, as it not only serves as a repository of Buddhist knowledge but also embodies national pride in Korea's historical dedication to Buddhism. By preserving these teachings through meticulous woodblock printing, it played a crucial role in maintaining Buddhist practices and philosophies during times of upheaval. This collection symbolizes resilience against foreign influences and highlights the importance of Buddhism in shaping Korean culture, spirituality, and identity across centuries.

Related terms

Woodblock Printing: A printing technique where an image or text is carved into a block of wood, inked, and pressed onto paper, which was crucial in the creation of texts like the Tripitaka Koreana.

Buddhism:

A spiritual tradition based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) that emphasizes ethical conduct, meditation, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

Silla Dynasty:

One of the three ancient kingdoms of Korea (57 BC – 935 AD) known for its cultural achievements, which laid the groundwork for the flourishing of Buddhism and literary arts in Korea.