제주의 영등신앙에 나타난 어업- <제주칠머리당영등굿>을 중심으로

Abstract

The purpose of this study is looking into meanings and features of shaman ritual to the livelihood of fishermen through Chilmoridang youngdeunggut, which is deeply involved in the fishermen’s lives in Jeju. Especially, it is due to understand communicative aspects between the mythical world and the real world by investigating relevant codes of ritual to those who are engaged in the fishery industry. Youngdeunggut is Poong-eo-je, which is considered important to the residents of the sea. Although there are a number of rituals in Jeju so as to pray for both a good yield and safety in the sea, among them is Youngdeunggut, held in February by the lunar calendar, the biggest and most magnificent. The reason why sea-related rituals are particularly vital in Jeju is that because of the geographical characteristic, the ‘sea region’ may as well the living foundation as well as the means of livelihood to most residents. Also, the shamanistic ceremonies in Jeju traditionally have meant to play a key role of folk beliefs for a long time and become not just personal religion also cultural events for the local residents. Paying attention to especially the sea-related rituals to reconstruct their lives will contribute to comprehending close correlation between mythology and ritual to them. It seems that to the sea residents making their livelihood by fishing is in line with practicing religious activities. Considering these circumstances, it is possible to grasp this tradition group’s world view on the mythological world and to look into fishermen’s lives, who take part in the ritual. Also, many variables in the ritual related contextual circumstances as well as today’s ritual situations and participant’s psychological factors will determine the contemporary meanings of what mythology and ritual are today. Jeju Chilmoridang youngdeunggut has a distinctive characteristic for living. Especially, it is true that shamanism rituals and forms of religion have a great influence on their marine activities and mode of life by examining their expression of recognition through mythology, which puts importance on the ritual in the real world. The faith in making their own safety from marine accidents and praying for the fine yields from the sea throws a sideline on their being devoted to making livelihood by fishing.