Cheontae School

Definition

The Cheontae School is a prominent sect of Korean Buddhism that emerged during the Goryeo Dynasty, characterized by its unique interpretation of the Lotus Sutra and an emphasis on the concept of 'One Mind.' This school blends elements of both the philosophical and meditative practices of Buddhism, contributing to the rich tapestry of Buddhist thought in Korea.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cheontae School was founded by the monk Sŏnch'uk during the late Goryeo period and has played a significant role in the development of Korean Buddhism.
2. One of the defining features of Cheontae teaching is its focus on the idea that all phenomena arise from the mind, aligning with its interpretation of Buddhist texts.
3. The Cheontae School emphasizes both study and meditation, promoting a balanced approach to spiritual practice that appeals to a wide range of followers.
4. Cheontae's influence extended beyond its founding period, impacting later Buddhist movements and contributing to the syncretism observed in Korean Buddhism.
5. The school faced challenges during the Joseon Dynasty when Confucianism was promoted over Buddhism, but it managed to survive and adapt through various reforms.

Review Questions

• How did the Cheontae School's interpretation of the Lotus Sutra influence its teachings and practices?
  • The Cheontae School's interpretation of the Lotus Sutra centers on the idea that all beings can attain Buddhahood, which promotes inclusivity within its teachings. This emphasis on potentiality encourages practitioners to engage deeply with both meditation and philosophical inquiry. By integrating these elements, Cheontae establishes a holistic approach to spiritual growth that appeals to a diverse following, highlighting its significant role in shaping Korean Buddhism.
• Discuss the historical context of the Goryeo Dynasty and how it contributed to the establishment of the Cheontae School.
  • The Goryeo Dynasty provided a fertile ground for Buddhist thought due to its state support for religion and cultural development. During this period, numerous Buddhist texts were translated, and monastic institutions flourished. The emergence of Cheontae can be seen as a response to this environment, where monks like Sŏnch'uk sought to refine Buddhist teachings through rigorous study of scriptures like the Lotus Sutra. This context allowed Cheontae to gain prominence as a distinctive school within Korean Buddhism.
• Evaluate the impact of Confucianism on the development and survival of the Cheontae School during the Joseon Dynasty.
  • The rise of Confucianism during the Joseon Dynasty significantly challenged Buddhist institutions, including the Cheontae School. Confucian ideals often placed emphasis on morality and social order over spiritual practice, leading to a decline in support for Buddhism. However, Cheontae adapted by focusing on lay participation and incorporating Confucian values into its teachings. This ability to evolve allowed it to survive despite adversity and maintain relevance within Korean society.

Related terms

Lotus Sutra: A key Mahayana Buddhist text that emphasizes the potential for all beings to attain Buddhahood and serves as a foundational scripture for several Buddhist schools, including Cheontae.

Goryeo Dynasty: A Korean dynasty that ruled from 918 to 1392, during which Buddhism became a dominant spiritual force and gave rise to various sects, including the Cheontae School.

Meditative Practice: A core aspect of Buddhism that involves techniques for cultivating concentration, mindfulness, and insight, which are integral to the teachings of the Cheontae School.