문화기호학으로 풀어보는운주사 천불 천탑의 문양들

Abstract

This study is to interpret narrative signs of Unjoo Temple inherent in the culture of that time. For the purpose, this study examines various signs and figures that exist in stone pagodas and Buddhist statues which are one of Chonbul-Chontap secrets of Unjoo Temple. It is thought that it is a new chance to reorganize cultural styles of Unjoo Temple in various fields of modern history as well as meanings of Chonbul-Chontap signs and figures. Specifically, because of geometric forms of the signs and figures of Unjoo Temple, it is thought that it was built by foreign peoples and some researchers suggest that it was built by aliens. The following signs support such suggestions: lotus flower figures inside the double diamond shape on the pagoda body stone of the nine-storied stone pagoda, a diamond figure inscribed on the three-storied pagoda, baggy X figure and XX figure of the 7-storied pagoda, flame letters on the back of Gwangbae-seok-bul. However, the meaning is well explained in what looks like spiral figures, lotus flower figures on the base of the circular multi-storied pagoda (Yeonhwatop) and U-shaped figures. So, this study speculates signs and figures in symbolic, geometric, artistic, cultural and religious aspects. The figures of Unjoo Temple symbolize freedom, Mireuk world by independence, protection of people and the nation, abundance, fecundity, comfort, beginning, end, birth, revival, and reversed world. Finally, the codes of Chonbul-Chontop of Unjoo Temple ask revolution of human beings and society and already exist in long memories of Honam culture that protected people and the nation. Such phenomenon which has been kept in collective unconsciousness suggests that it can create another cultural aspect.