✨ The Sacred Record of Human Wisdom, the Tripitaka Koreana ✨

반응형

---

✨ The Sacred Record of Human Wisdom, the Tripitaka Koreana ✨

Here unfolds the profound and beautiful story of the Tripitaka Koreana, a global cultural heritage imbued with the aspirations and spirit of the Goryeo Dynasty.

---

🌟 Introduction: Immortal Wisdom Born Amidst Foreign Invasions

The Tripitaka Koreana (八萬大藏經), officially named the Goryeo Daejanggyeong (高麗大藏經), is a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures produced during the Goryeo Dynasty. The words of the Buddha, meticulously carved onto over 80,000 woodblocks, are more than just religious records; they are a shining cultural heritage showcasing the spirit and exceptional craftsmanship of the Goryeo people, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

---

📜 Foreign Invasions, Carving Aspirations

The Tripitaka Koreana was produced in two stages:

• The First Tripitaka Koreana (初雕大藏經): A fervent wish to ward off the Khitan invasion (11th century)
  • Its production began during the reign of King Hyeonjong of Goryeo, driven by the aspiration to overcome the Khitan invasion through the power of Buddhism.
  • Painstakingly carved over approximately 77 years, it was the epitome of East Asian Buddhist culture at the time, but sadly, most of it was destroyed during the Mongol invasions, leaving behind a sense of loss.
• The Second Tripitaka Koreana (再雕大藏經): A steadfast determination to overcome the Mongol invasion (13th century)
  • The Tripitaka Koreana we see today was re-created during the reign of King Gojong, amidst the Mongol invasions, with the firm determination to protect the nation.
  • An imperishable record completed over 16 years, from 1236, through the combined strength of the entire nation despite national difficulties.

---

📚 A Repository of Vast Wisdom, Astonishing Precision

• Overwhelming Scale: It encompasses a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures, totaling 1,511 titles and 6,791 volumes.
• Over 80,000 Woodblocks: Approximately 81,258 woodblocks are intricately carved.
• Accurate and Error-Free Records: The accuracy of the content is remarkably high due to the efforts of numerous scholars and artisans.
• Scholarly Value: It is a valuable resource, having been meticulously compared and collated with various Chinese Tripitakas to correct errors and supplement content.

---

🛠️ Scientific Production Process, Astonishing Preservation Technology

• Carefully Selected Wood: Hard and evenly grained woods such as birch, cherry, and pear were used to ensure long-term preservation.
• Dedicated Craftsmanship: The spirit of artisans was poured into every process, from preparing the wood to carving the letters and reviewing for errors.
• Lacquer and Copper Plates: Lacquer was applied to enhance resistance to insects and moisture, and copper plates were added to the edges for increased durability.
• Janggyeong Panjeon at Haeinsa Temple: Janggyeong Panjeon (藏經板殿) at Haeinsa Temple, built to safely preserve the Tripitaka Koreana, is a scientific architectural marvel with natural ventilation and temperature control. This is the secret behind the perfect preservation of the Tripitaka Koreana for over 750 years.

---

💎 A Treasure of Humanity Encompassing History, Culture, and Art

• Core of Buddhist Studies: It is an indispensable and valuable resource for Buddhist academic research.
• Spirit of the Goryeo People: It vividly showcases the spirit and culture of the Goryeo people who sought to overcome national crises through the power of Buddhism.
• Outstanding Printing Technology: It is evidence of the exceptional woodblock printing technology and artistry of the Goryeo Dynasty.
• Global Value: Recognized for its historical and cultural value, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.

---

📍 Where to Encounter the Tripitaka Koreana: Haeinsa Temple

The Tripitaka Koreana is currently treasured and preserved at Haeinsa Temple, located in Hapcheon County, Gyeongsangnam-do Province. Janggyeong Panjeon, along with the Tripitaka Koreana, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a precious space to directly experience its historical significance.

---

✨ Conclusion: The Everlasting Light of Wisdom

The Tripitaka Koreana is a brilliant cultural heritage of humanity created through the wisdom, aspirations, and exceptional craftsmanship of the Goryeo people. This sacred record, born amidst national crises, transcends time to deliver profound inspiration and enlightenment, and its value will shine forever.

---

2025.04.15 - [korea of ~] - ✨ Silla, the Light of a Thousand Years: A Beautiful History Piercing the Korean Peninsula ✨

✨ Silla, the Light of a Thousand Years: A Beautiful History Piercing the Korean Peninsula ✨