Esoteric Buddhism; The Koryo Dynasty; Hoguk-pulgyo; Nation-protecting Buddhism; Korean Tripitaka; Esoteric Buddhist Astrology
摘要
The aim of this presentation is to show that while Esoteric Buddhism under the Koryo developed certain traits reflecting more narrow local developments in accordance with the country`s special cultural and geopolitical situation, it was at the same time part and parcel of a larger pan-East Asian Buddhist development which took place under the Song 宋 (960-1276), the Khitan Liao 遼 (906-1125), the Jurchen Jin 金 (1127-1234), the Tangut Xixia 西夏 as well as late Heian 平安 (782-1185) and Kamakura 렴倉 (1185-1382) of Japan. Therefore, while Esoteric Buddhism under the Koryo on the one hand featured elements that were unique to Korea, on the other hand it shared the over-all concerns for "Nation-protection"(Kor. hoguk pulgyo 護國佛敎) through ritual manipulation of the cosmic and earthly forces, as well as a persuasive interest in magic and disease control among the general population. The paper has been divided into a number of themes covering what is deemed the most important if not significant aspects of Esoteric Buddhism under the Koryo. This includes a historical introduction, a discussion of Esoteric Buddhist denominations, their beliefs and practices, the special historical and cultural circumstances due to which the Korean tripitakas came about, the court`s sponsoring of Esoteric Buddhist rituals and lastly a reconsideration of the concept of "Nation-protecting Buddhism." In addition these themes will also match more directly the rest of pan-East Asian Buddhism that will be discussed here.
