백제불교의 일본 전래시기에 대한 일고찰

Abstract

In this study, prior studies on the transmission period of Baekje Buddhism to Japan were reexamined, shifting the analytical perspective from the recipient’s viewpoint to that of the transmitter. Among the proposed dates in previous studies--505, 522, 538, 545, 548, and 552—the 505 and 522 theories were deemed instances of private transmissions, while the 545 and 548 theories were considered to have low credibility. By contrast, the 538 and 552 theories were regarded as the most plausible, yielding results that complement existing research. From the transmitter's perspective, the 538 theory is supported due to Baekje’s relocation of its capital to Sabi and the reliability of historical records. However, this theory is limited by the lack of a clear purpose on Baekje’s part to transmit Buddhism to Japan at that time. In contrast, the 552 theory corresponds to a period in which Baekje, facing isolation on the Korean Peninsula and in desperate need of military support from Japan, likely transmitted Buddhism to secure assistance. Furthermore, throughout the transmission of Buddhism in East Asia, the strategic interests of the transmitter have been a key factor. It is presumed that Eastern Jin and Former Qin transmitted Buddhism to Baekje and Goguryeo with similar motives, aiming to gain military and diplomatic leverage within China. Given this context, the 552 theory is deemed the most reasonable timeline for the transmission of Baekje Buddhism to Japan.