5. Silla Buddhist Art and Women

Summary

This presentation explores the role of women in Buddhism and art during the Shila Dynasty, focusing on the establishment of Yun Temple and the unique religious position of 'Ani,' a revered nun title for royal women. The speaker examines royal involvement in Buddhist practices, the significance of sacred sites, and the relationship between Buddhism and indigenous traditions. Through the analysis of artifacts, royal tombs, and temple donations, the presentation highlights the cultural and religious influence of women, particularly figures like Queen Sundog, in shaping the Buddhist landscape of the time.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker, a professor from Tong University, presents research on Buddhism, women, and art in the Silla Dynasty.
• 😀 The presentation highlights the difficulty of interpreting historical materials from the period, with many artifacts and records no longer available.
• 😀 The term 'Ani,' used in Silla to describe high-ranking female religious figures, has sparked debate about its meaning and significance.
• 😀 The role of women in Silla Buddhism is exemplified by figures like Queen Sundog, who commissioned Buddhist services and led religious efforts.
• 😀 The term 'Ani' could refer to a nun, ritual leader, or revered religious figure, with some believing it was an honorific title for powerful women.
• 😀 Archaeological findings, such as inscriptions at Hundo Mountain, suggest a strong intersection of Buddhist and local Shilla beliefs.
• 😀 The speaker discusses the importance of material culture, such as statues and pagodas, in understanding Silla's religious practices and royal power.
• 😀 The unique use of andesite for temples and sculptures suggests the integration of symbolism and political influence in Buddhist art.
• 😀 Artifacts like earrings, scissors, and needles discovered at Buddhist sites link Queen Sundog to the donation and commissioning of religious relics.
• 😀 The synthesis of Buddhism with local Shilla beliefs is evident in figures like Shinu, the mother goddess, and her connection to Buddhist practices.
• 😀 Despite challenges in interpreting limited archaeological evidence, the speaker emphasizes the importance of studying material culture to understand Silla's religious and social dynamics.

Q & A

What is the primary research field of the speaker?

The speaker's primary research field is ancient Buddhist art, metal stone art, and he has written many papers related to Buddhism art.

Why did the speaker feel awkward during the presentation?

The speaker felt awkward because he was the only male participant in a symposium focusing on Buddhist art and women, which made him feel out of place.

What is the significance of Yun Temple mentioned in the presentation?

Yun Temple is significant because it is the first temple established as both a nunnery and a Buddhist temple. The name 'Yung' means the eternal flourishing of Buddhism, symbolizing the temple's role in promoting Buddhism.

What does the term 'Ani' refer to in the context of the Shila Dynasty?

'Ani' refers to a revered Buddhist title used for women, possibly indicating a nun or a religious leader. It was a term used to describe women in special Buddhist positions during the Shila Dynasty, distinct from regular nuns.

What does the speaker suggest about the role of women in the Shila Dynasty?

The speaker suggests that women in the Shila Dynasty played a significant role in Buddhism, with some queens and royal women being ordained as nuns or holding prominent positions in religious activities, such as the position of Ani.

What archaeological evidence was presented regarding the use of the term 'Ani'?

The speaker presented an epigraph found near a rock-carved Buddha triad on Hundo Mountain, which contained the word 'Ani'. This term is believed to refer to a nun or a revered figure in Buddhist contexts.

What is the significance of the holes and fixtures found in the ancient Buddha statues?

The holes and fixtures found in the Buddha statues appear to be man-made and were likely used for structural purposes. These fixtures may have been used to attach guilt plates to cover cracked areas of the statues, particularly in the hands and feet.

How does the speaker describe the relationship between Buddhism and local religions in the Shila Dynasty?

The speaker describes a blend of Buddhism and traditional local religions during the Shila Dynasty. This fusion is seen in the role of mountain spirits, where female deities, such as the mother goddess, coexist with Buddhist practices.

What role did Queen Sundog play in the development of Buddhism in the Shila Dynasty?

Queen Sundog is credited with commissioning and supporting several important Buddhist temples, including Pun Hang Temple. She is seen as a key figure in promoting and supporting Buddhist practices and services led by women during the Shila Dynasty.

What is the historical significance of the stone pagoda at Pun Hang Temple?

The stone pagoda at Pun Hang Temple is significant as it is the oldest stone pagoda in Korea. It was built using andesite, which was considered a sacred material, and reflects the religious and royal importance of the temple during the Shila Dynasty.