Tripitaka Koreana

Definition

The Tripitaka Koreana is a comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures that was carved onto wooden blocks in Korea during the 13th century. This monumental work is considered one of the most complete and accurate versions of the Buddhist canon and serves as an essential resource for understanding Buddhist teachings. Its creation reflects both religious devotion and artistic craftsmanship, showcasing the significance of illuminated sutras and Buddhist painting in the broader context of East Asian art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Tripitaka Koreana was created during the Goryeo Dynasty and consists of over 80,000 woodblocks that contain the entire Buddhist canon.
2. It was initiated in response to an invasion by the Mongols, as a means to preserve Buddhist teachings and cultural heritage.
3. The woodblocks used for the Tripitaka Koreana are made from high-quality timber, which has allowed them to survive intact for centuries.
4. The meticulous carving process required highly skilled artisans and reflects advanced artistic techniques prevalent in East Asian culture.
5. Today, the Tripitaka Koreana is housed at Haeinsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and serves as a major center for Buddhist studies.

Review Questions

• How does the Tripitaka Koreana reflect the artistic and cultural values of its time?
  • The Tripitaka Koreana showcases the artistic values of the Goryeo Dynasty through its intricate woodblock carvings and high-quality materials. The dedication required for its creation demonstrates the importance placed on preserving Buddhist teachings during a tumultuous period marked by Mongol invasions. This endeavor not only highlights the artistic skill of Korean artisans but also illustrates the deep commitment to Buddhism as a central aspect of cultural identity at that time.
• Discuss the significance of the woodblock printing technique as seen in the production of the Tripitaka Koreana and its impact on Buddhist scripture dissemination.
  • The woodblock printing technique employed in creating the Tripitaka Koreana significantly impacted how Buddhist scriptures were disseminated across East Asia. This method allowed for mass production of texts, making them more accessible to monks and laypeople alike. As a result, it facilitated a wider understanding of Buddhist teachings and practices, fostering a sense of community among followers while reinforcing shared beliefs and values throughout the region.
• Evaluate how the historical context surrounding the creation of the Tripitaka Koreana influenced its content and preservation methods.
  • The historical context during which the Tripitaka Koreana was created played a crucial role in shaping both its content and preservation methods. The Mongol invasions prompted an urgent need to protect Buddhist teachings from potential loss or alteration, leading to a concentrated effort to compile an accurate version of the canon. The choice to use durable timber for woodblocks not only ensured longevity but also reflected a conscious decision to safeguard cultural heritage amid external threats. This focus on preservation has allowed the Tripitaka Koreana to remain one of the most revered sources for understanding Buddhism today.

Related terms

Buddhist Canon: A set of texts that are considered authoritative in Buddhism, which includes teachings attributed to the Buddha and various commentaries.

Woodblock Printing: An ancient printing technique used to reproduce images and text, particularly in East Asia, that played a key role in disseminating Buddhist scriptures.

Sutra: A type of religious scripture in Buddhism, often containing teachings, discourses, or narratives attributed to the Buddha.