불교설화를 통한 산림문화자원의 활성화 방안 연구

Abstract

This article chiefly deals with the ecological as well as cultural value of trees through Buddhist folktales. Trees are main substances of Buddhist folktales. These old trees are still alive and transmit interesting stories about Buddhist temples across the country. Forestry cultural resources such as trees, rocks, ponds, waterfalls, etc are becoming important subjects of ecological and cultural tourism in 21st century Korea. Old trees in Buddhist temples, in particular, provide excellent examples of ecological and cultural property. Namely, places where old trees are located in Buddhist temples are normally regarded as ecologically ideal space and also those trees convey realistic legends of Buddhism. From the standpoint of natural science the annual ring is a main barometer for measuring the age of an old tree. Yet, as an additional method, transmitted legends concerning trees could help to calculate the accurate age of trees. Buddhist folktales concerning trees often provide interesting stories of old temples, monks, even Buddhist theories and teachings. Hence, old trees in Buddhist temples are ecologically well preserved till today and furthermore can be highlighted as important story-telling cultural assets.