이차돈유산 가치와 현대적 계승

Abstract

Ichadon, also known as Geochadon, is a Buddhist monk and advisor to the Silla king Beopheung, who scarified his life in order for Buddhism to be accepted as the state religion. His sacrifice is a clear manifestation of the Avatamsaka Sutra, often translated Flower Garland into English, which teaches fruits and sea can be obtained only by abandoning flowers and rivers. His altruistic dedication to Buddhism allowed the religion to enjoy its golden days until Unified Silla, paving the way for Buddhist thought for country, which represented Silla and a national spirit. Accordingly, there is a need for Heungryunsa Temple to be promoted not only as a place to commemorate the martyrdom of Ichadon and memorial ceremony for him but also as the cradle for Buddhism for co-existence. Ichadon is regarded as a Buddhist symbol of noblesse oblige and thus his martyrdom should be re-interpretated in a new perspective. In commemorating his extraordinary efforts to promulgate the religion, various ways should be made, including remembrance, performances and festivals. As seen in the account of the Baengnyulsa Stone Pillar set up 270 years after his death, Ichadon’s martyrdom resulted in the adoption of the Buddhism as the state religion. Of course, this entailed a strong support from the royal family and proper follow-up measures. Centering upon Ichadon’s three values, Mahayana sutras, enlightenment and harmonization, an effort should be made to develop an integrated story telling. In accordance of the Buddhism ideals, three jewels, the efforts should be consistently promoted. At the same time, the tradition of martyrdom should be preserved. The martyrdom of Ichadon was commemorated in many ways. Buddhist rituals such as Sooryukjae and a sense of association culminated in the tradition of commemorating the burial of incense during the Silla Dynasty. This represents a value of a common good inherited by Ichadon. In the context of promoting cultural preservation, integrity in Buddhism and Gyeongju as a global cultural city, more attention should be drawn to ways in sharing the value of the martyrdom and inheriting his teachings. Also, along with the values shown in historical records such as The Chronicles of the Three States, The Heritage of the Tree States and Haedong Goseungjeon, the meaning of Baengnyulsa Stone Pillar should be inherited in generations to come. In fact, commemorating Ichadon demands multi-faceted strategies. All of these can be realized by setting up a dedicated organization that puts emphasis on academic grounds through forums. Promoting Local Buddhist communities, called hyangdo festival, which is related to the Baengnyulsa Stone Pillar, as an important cultural property can be a way. Without academic practicality and a religious vocation, efforts to launch an Ichadon promotion business would be to no avail. As seen in the case of the martyrdom bringing about the realization of a common good and harmonization in the past, there is room that the efforts would pay off. Considering the social benefits and solidarity of communities, the martyrdom of Ichadon-Hyangdo-based Killer Content holds a significant meaning in terms of preservation of a comprehensive cultural and heritage.