『大唐西域記』에 기재된 佛敎의 諸神 故事 考察

Abstract

In Da-Tang-Xi-Yu-Ji, various Hindu gods appear as Buddhist gods. Based on the motif, the stories of these gods can be classified into three different types: the glorification or the protection of Buddhist Dharma, the demand for Buddhist preaching, and the manifestation of marvelous work. Also based on the level of gods, the stories of these gods can be classified into deva, asura and rakshasa. What is found from analyzing the stories in Da-Tang-Xi-Yu-Ji is, including Buddhism, as religions underwent transition, sometimes, different ideas from those of the original founder of religion were passed down in the form of religious philosophy which borrowed the name of original founder. Through the generations, in India, Buddhism had changed many Hindu gods into many Buddhist gods. In India, the idea of worshipping gods, appearing in several religions which include Hinduism, view human beings as subordinates of these gods since the gods are directly concerned with everything pertaining to human beings. On the other hand, Skayamuni recognized cause and effect relationship. This means not only the establishment of the dignity of the human, but also liberation from the gods. Such as Indra and Brahma among many gods described in Da-Tang-Xi-Yu-Ji, are at the top level of gods in Veda, and are absolutely admired by Indian even until now. However, Buddhists consider these gods to exist only to protect their own religion. From Buddhist viewpoint, the relationship between Buddhism and Hindu gods was intended to make the public in India more intimate towards Buddhism by absorbing Hinduism and show Buddhist superiority to Hindu by meta language. But the fact that we should not overlook is Buddhism emphasizes the dignity of the human.