흥천사(興天寺)와 행호(行乎)에 관한 연구

Abstract

The history of Heungcheonsa temple has been examined through previous studies. Heungcheonsa temple was established as a royal temple and established as an important temple in Buddhism during the first half of the Joseon period. It can be said that right here, there is the flow and thought of Buddhism in the Buddhism world in the first half period. Haengho (行乎), who appears in the history of Heungcheonsa temple, is a priest of high virtue representing the first half of the Joseon period, and it can be said that he also has historical issues. Haengho, appointed by the royal family, is closely related to Baekryeonsa temple, and it is meaningful to examine Haengho's record of performances through Heungcheonsa temple. Although Haengho carried out the office of temple head of Heungcheonsa temple for only one year, looking at Haengho's activities and thoughts, his influence can be said to be enormous. He preserves the status of Buddhism within the national system and revitalizes the Buddhist denomination by defending the rights and interests of monks, whereas by reflecting the views of the Buddhist community in the policies, he played a significant role in restoring/maintaining the tradition of Buddhism. In this process, Haengho, as the head of the Buddhist world at the time, provided the driving force to lead the Buddhist world, although his period of activities at Heungcheonsa temple was short. It is Haengho's achievement that Heungcheonsa temple served as the head temple. He needs to be evaluated again in that he has established the position of Joseon(朝鮮) Buddhism despite many objections at the time.