中國 唐代 民間에서의 佛敎活動과 意義 ― 《太平廣記》를 중심으로

Abstract

One important index regarding the domestication of Buddhism is to evaluate whether its major principles have been regarded as an universal belief or value. Buddhism in China reached its highest point during the Tang dynasty. All of the members of social classes supported Buddhism: the imperial family and aristocrats became the sponsors for solidifying its influence and position; and the general public embraced Buddhism while engaging in diverse religious and social activities. The Tang dynasty witnessed the spread of Buddhism to the popular class thanks to the efforts made by the religious body as well as by those in the private sector. Unlike the Buddhist monks who chose public methods to popularize the religion, the Buddhist groups such as yishe邑社 (local society) as well as the layman were committed to the religious activities by inviting family members to everyday life, which further provides a barometer for telling the level of popularization in secular sectors. This essay examines the examples taken from The Extensive Records of the Taiping Era太平廣記, particularly those concerning the Buddhist activities pervasive in the popular class. Specific details include the religious activities such as erecting the statues of the Buddha, reciting and copying Buddhist sutras, and zhaihui齋會 (an assembly of monks for chanting, with food provided). The layman offered alms for building the statues along with the offering made by sacrificing their own body parts; meanwhile, reciting and writing sutras were conducted either for everyday practice or for special purposes. Zhaihui had various forms; especially the one in the secular sectors transitioned to the commemoration of the dead. In this way, this essay discusses the Buddhist activities among those in the secular sectors, which further illuminates their social significance, inherent psychology and individual pursuit.