동산스님의 계율관

Abstract

The Buddhist Precept is considered as the root of enlightenment, the essential of the Buddhist doctrine And the framework of the Sangha. This Buddhist Monastic Code consists of two factors: one is the śīla which abstains from doing evil conducts, the other, the Vinaya which prohibits wrong doing. Literally, the meaning of the Buddhist Monastic Code is compound of the śīla and the vinaya. This Buddhist Precept is the path and guideline through which Buddhas and Bodhisattvas appear in this world and Buddhists destroy ignorance and achieve what they are. The Buddhist Precept is the practical framework which expounds the doctrine of the Dependant Origin for enlightenment. In this way, the Monastic Code has the meaning and significance in leading to enlightenment and realizing Pureland. The Buddhist Vinaya plays these pivotal roles, that is why the Buddha recommended that you should follow the Vinaya as a teacher. In this context, the Vinaya should be realized based on the viewpoint of the Dependent Origin and be practised in the Middle Way. The Master , Dong San (1890 - 1965) has been said that he observed the precepts firmly and practised meditation incessantly. He emphasised on practising the Vinaya for Bodhisattva. The Bodhisattva Vinaya is considered as the ground on which holy and wholesome dharmas are produced. This Bodhisattva Vinaya removes the defilements and leads us to the teaching of the Buddha. The Master asserted that we could not lead ethical and moral life unless we developed our attitude to observe the Precept and emphasised on following the Vinaya. He preached 23 times at the platform of the vinaya at Beomeo Temple. He reminded us of practising the Three Learning, the Vinaya, the Samadhi and the Prajna through the Short phrase, Dealing, Enduring and Serving which comprehend the Mahayana thought. The Master, Dong San preached the teaching of the Buddha with the method which was easy to understand. This was derived from his experience of practising meditation. It is impossible that if we do not reach the higher stage of practice, we cannot preach appropriate teaching. The Vinaya in the Mahayana is for that we realize and cultivate our mind and become a Buddha. In the Purifying Movement in Korean Buddhism, the Master practised the meaning of the Three Learning, tried to realize the enlightenment and to spread the pure mind through observing the precepts.