성호(星湖)와 순암(順菴)의 사제관계(師弟關係)

Abstract

This study analyzes the Hamjangrok (函丈錄) written by Sunam and the letters he exchanged with Seongho to determine the nature of teaching and learning that transpired between the teacher and student. It aims to offer insight into the mindset and attitude that today's teachers and students should have. Seongho was polite in everything he did, calling himself “the one who cannot hear” and “the one who sits in the last seat of his friends.” He asked his students questions during class and listened to their thoughts, such as “I want to learn”, “I want to hear accurate comments”, “What do you think?” Meanwhile, Sunam approached learning with a humble attitude and acknowledged his foolishness and shortcomings. Students must have a heart that desires development, strives to know for oneself, and longs for virtue. With this mindset, rather than readily accepting the content of the text, students should doubt every phrase, ask questions, and appreciate themselves. Analysis of the relationship between the teacher Seongho and the student Sunam shows that: First, the most basic academic attitude is politeness. Teachers and students must recognize their own immaturity and inadequacy and humbly approach the educational process. Second, a reciprocal relationship between teachers and students, in which both can freely ask each other questions, is essential to cultivate virtue. Third, teachers and students must aim to learn from each other. Teachers must also learn from their students and listen to their thoughts. In conclusion, teachers and students should have a polite attitude, ask each other questions, and constantly listen to and learn from each other.