조계종 기초교육의 변화와 행자의 退寺 문제 검토 – 2010년 입문교육의 시행 이후를 중심으로 -

Abstract

The number of Haengjas(trainees) in the Jogye Order(曹溪宗) has decreased by half over the past 10 years. The decrease in their number will accelerates the aging of the monks and the entering of Jogye sect into an ultra-aged society. In this respect, stable management and basic education for Haengjas are of paramount importance for the maintenance and development of the temple. This paper examines the basic education for Haengjas changed from 2010 and draws out the problems in it. In addition, it attempts to suggest an alternative to overcome this after comparing the number of Haengjas who entered the introductory class in the basic education and the number of final survivors and quantifying the rate of resignation (drop-out) of Haengjas. To this end, first of all, it was explained that the Haengjas' education is difficult because of their vague position in Buddhism as a middleman between home-stayers and monks. Therefore, it is necessary to clearly recognize their peculiarity, deal with them as subjects of education, and clarify that they are the future of the Jogye Order. And, as an alternative to the problem, the author suggests to establish a separate Haengjas institute to ensure the stable and systemic management and education of Haengjas. The resignation rate of Haengjas is apparently 6-20%, but it may reach a maximum of 25-50%. Therefore, a systematic approach through the establishment of Haengjas institute can have effect to increase the number of high-quality Haengjas and lower the rate of their resignation.