검도의 신묘검, 활인검 사상 -노장사상을 중심으로-

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between Taoism and Kendo. In order to examine the relationship between Taoism and Kendo, the discussion focuses on Taoism's 'Gokshin' (谷神), ‘mysticism' (神妙), and on the ‘save sword’ (活人劍). Considering the relationship between Taoism and Kendo, it will be easier to approach the cultural goals and philosophical meanings of the body and mind that Kendo ultimately pursues. Originally, the idea of a mind method inherent in Japanese Kendo was greatly influenced by Buddhism, Shintoism, and Confucianism. Taoist ideas also had a profound influence on the establishment of Kendo. Among the content of the Mijijiryu-byeon Military Strategy (兵法未知志留邊) is Laozi theory of 'Gokshin' (谷神). Laozi describes the Tao as mysterious, but in the Budongji Shinmyorok (不動智神妙錄) and the Byeongbeop Family Book (兵法家傳書), the highest level of Kendo is presented as mysterious. Jangja explains this situation by comparing Pojeong (庖丁) and Mokgye (木鷄). Subsequently, when one enters a mysterious state, one should be in a state of mind by winning without a fight – without drawing the word. This is called 'Ainuke' (相拔け) and Laozi said that he could win without having to fight as he is one with the Tao. In the end, it is the state of Tao that Japanese Kendo ultimately seeks through the philosophical foundation of Taoism. The highest degree is only possible when the skills of the body and the training of the mind match. Kendo aims to complete the character on the philosophical basis of Taoism's cosmology and cultivation theory.