현대 觀音菩薩像 新圖像과 관음신앙의 경향

Abstract

This study analyzed the new icons of nine Avalokitesvara at the four temples in Korea. It investigated the motives and background of new birth to this icons. Also it examined the new trends and significance to the modern faith of Avalokitesvara through the new icon. It is summarized that what messages are given to Buddhists living in modern times by the following four types. First is the Buddhist social participation and development through the farmers' association movement. Second is the practical movement to carry out work and meditation at the same time as the farming movement. Third is the Religion and World Peace Movement by Practicing nonpossession and noble poverty. Fourth, Let's live as a Buddha as an edification, practice, and propagation through the education of Buddhist University. All of which has an enlightening character that demanded Buddhist social participation and intended to improve the consciousness of the public on the premise of practical Buddhism. The faith of modern Avalokitesvara contained the both of the 'Reliance upon Avalokitesvara' and 'one's own strength'. It still has retaining the traditional icons it relies on the Avalokitesvara faith as a saviour. The characteristics and background of the newly emerged the new Avalokitesvara icons reveal the practical idea that Buddhists themselves encounter and challenge to the problems and demands of the present age. These changes are interpreted as a step in recognizing that the Avalokitesvara faith of Korea has grown to pursuing that the happiness are given by the practice and effort. The balance of the both that is to inherit to cause of the 'benefitting oneself and others' pursued by the Mahayana Buddhism, it will be expected to grow into a more solid public faith of Avalokitesvara in the modern and future of the world. In addition, the leaders‘ role to public is very importance, and revealed the influence of innovative ideas and actions. Finally, the part that can not be left out of this study is that the laymen, rather than the Buddhist priests, show the movements of local propaganda more actively.