선수행 프로그램 개발을 위한 담론

Abstract

Before developing a program for Seon (Zen) practice, this article attempted to examine some aspects of Seon practice, especially essential points of Seon, Seon practice system, and Seon practice leaders. First, the theory of original enlightenment, i.e., the advocacy of the possession by sentient beings of enlightenment as their basic nature, gives psychological discomfort to modern people. And this is a view of sentient beings and the world from the standpoint of enlightened teachers, which I wanted to make clear. Also, I suggested that the term ‘original enlightenment’ be changed to ‘freedom and equality,’ which represent a civic spirit of the modern and present age. Thus, we may approach the theory of original enlightenment in terms of ‘the spirit of freedom and equality which is equivalent to the discerning eye toward the objects of perception.’ Then, we can effectively convey the teaching of Seon to the public without causing psychological discomfort. The practice of Seon originally does not allow the gradual attainment of enlightenment or step-by-step approach of cultivation. However, considering such factors as the Mahāyāna spirit ‘to seek bodhi above and to save sentient beings below,’ the principle of edifying sentient beings based on their natural capacity, and a living Seon practice thoroughly rooted in everyday lives, we may positively examine the effects of gradual approach to Seon and the step-by-step understanding of it in today’s situation. From this standpoint, I suggested a plan for a gradual approach to Seon practice. Lastly, when we say we are discussing program development, the focus may be on the subject, but the leader is as important as the subject. The most important requirement of a leader is compassion in one word. When the leader arouses compassion, making a great vow to remove the suffering of the subject, and when his/her compassionate mind leads to a careful observation, the leader is considered to be able to act as a means of wisdom. The modern application of the theory of original enlightenment and the step-bystep approach of Seon practice along with the correct leadership role will be the prerequisites for revitalizing and popularizing the program for Seon practice.