한국불교의 다비(茶毘) 현황과 발전방안

Abstract

The Current Status and Development of Cremation in Korean Buddhism Cremation in Korean Buddhism has a history of approximately 2,500 years, dating back to the parinirvana of Buddha (545 BC), and was introduced as a new funeral rite during the Three Kingdoms Period. It has a history and tradition of approximately 1,500 years. In Korean Buddhism, the cremation refers, in its narrow sense, to the simple act of cremating the body. Still, in its broader sense, it encompasses the entire funeral process and rituals, including the mortuary solemnity, the preparation of the funeral hall, entombment, carry the coffin, the creation of paper flowers, the solemnity of the coffin and funeral paraphernalia, buddhist hymns, large scroll painting, buddhist dancing (cymbal dance), temple food, the solemnity of cremation platform, chanting, and cremation tools. The six narrowly defined cremation methods that have been passed down in Korean Buddhism to the present day are practiced at six temples: Beomeosa Temple in Busan, Bongseonsa Temple in Namyangju-si, Baegyangsa Temple in Jangseong-gun, Seonamsa Temple in Suncheon-si, Sudeoksa Temple in Yesan-gun, and Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon-gun. One of the distinctive features of the narrowly defined cremation ritual currently practiced is that it applies the principle of the ondol heating system to the cremation. Therefore, by placing a Gudeuljang and constructing a chimney, the space can also be used as an ondol room. Second, the use of straw (such as straw ropes or straw bundles) as the material for the cremation is also unique. In other words, the fact that straw, a material easily obtainable in the surrounding area in the past, makes Korea Buddhism's cremation ceremony a unique intangible cultural heritage found only in the Republic of Korea. As such, it holds significant cultural, historical, and academic value. Additionally, cremation is not merely a ritual for disposing of the body, but also embodies a culture that respects life and shows consideration for others through its ceremonial aspects. In other words, the cremation ceremony offers an indirect experience of death and provides education about it, thereby helping people recognize the preciousness and dignity of life. Therefore, the establishment of a cremation culture could help reduce the life-related incidents that occur continuously in our society. However, the narrowly defined cremation method passed down in Korean Buddhism is facing a severe crisis that could lead to its extinction. The reason for this is that among the six cremation methods currently being passed down, the monks who are passing on the tradition are aging, and the number of monks who wish to learn the tradition is gradually decreasing. Such issues stem from a lack of understanding and negative perceptions regarding cremation. Therefore, what must be prioritized is a shift in perception within the Sangha to recognize that "cremation is a valuable cultural heritage, and the preparation and conduct of cremation are also precious practices that not everyone can undertake," just as practicing Zen meditation in the Sangha is essential. Additionally, to revitalize traditional cremation practices, it is first necessary to establish a department dedicated to traditional cremation studies within Dongguk University. This will ensure the participation of monks, laypeople, and the general public in cremation practices and secure successors for traditional cremation rituals. Second, it is worth considering the establishment and operation of a department within the Jogye Executive Director of Administration to manage cremation practices directly. Third, it is necessary to establish a system that provides various cremation support funds and scholarships to monks and their successors who inherit traditional cremation practices. Fourth, to reduce cremation costs, monks should perform cremation directly. Fifth, to shorten cremation time, the optimal amount of materials should be used, and eco-friendly cremation materials should be employed. Sixth, as part of monk welfare, establishing and operating a "Cremation Ritual Support Association" under the Jogye Order or as an independent institution is another option. From now on, the task that must be addressed in cremation is the need for safe and environmentally friendly methods that do not cause pollution, particularly during severe weather conditions such as typhoons, heavy rain, heavy snow, and strong winds. One such proposal is to establish a new cremation site in the form of a kiln. By utilizing this method, first, cremation can be safely conducted even during adverse weather conditions such as typhoons, heavy snow, or heavy rain. Second, the kiln-shaped structure allows for higher temperatures in the furnace, enabling complete combustion. Third, it can help prevent the generation and emission of environmental pollutants to some extent. Additionally, it is necessary to research and develop methods for distinguishing between monks and laypeople during cremation, as well as studies on cremation rituals, funeral supplies, and tools related to cremation.