봉우 권태훈 정신수양론 조식법의 한국전통사상 연계 맥락 연구

Abstract

Bongwoo Kwon Tae-hoon, a modern nationalist and philosopher, presents the practice of a respiration method, the Josik Breathing Method, as a means of traditional mind cultivation. This study aims to elucidate whether Bongwoo's mind cultivation theory, through the Josik Breathing Method, carries context and connections inherent to traditional Korean thought. To this end, by examining cases of controlled breathing practices (the Josik breathing method) in traditional Korean Confucianism, it is evident that the essence of Josik Breathing (調息) lies in pursuing a world of unity through the order of harmony and balance, adhering to the principle (道) of One Yin and One Yang. This indicates that the Josik Breathing method has been practiced as a cultivation method in line with the mental disciplines of Yao and Shun, Confucius' concept of maintaining presence, Mencius' Gubangshim, and the vast-flowing spirit. It has been further practiced as a method of self-cultivation through mindfulness (敬) by philosophers such as Jeong Myungdo, Jeong Yichuan, Lee Yeongpyung and Zhu Xi, and others through seated still meditation. In Joseon Confucianism, the Josik Breathing Method has been passed down as a theory of mind cultivation in traditional Korean thought, from scholars like Mokeun, Toegye, and Gubong, Yulgok to Bongwoo. Furthermore, it is evident that the purpose of Bongwoo's Josik breathing cultivation aligns with the United Society, which aspires to foster a world of unity through harmony and balance. The cultivation system also consistently aligns with Confucian philosophy's theory of self-realization (成己) through the principle of benevolence (仁) and the cultivation theory of self-discipline and governance, which begins with self-knowledge and extends to others, society, the nation, and the world. Additionally, Bongwoo's theory of mind cultivation, which advocates for the monastic practice of the unity of mind and matter, resonates with traditional Korean thought. This includes the ideals of Hongik Ingan (benefiting humanity), the profound path of Hyunmyodo, the harmonizing thoughts of doctrine and seon that unite teachings, and the mystical harmony of Yi-Gi-Ji-Myo which all aim for a peaceful, harmonious world of unity.