조선 세조 7년(1461) 사리분신(舍利分身) 상서의 출현과 역사적 의미

Abstract

This thesis examines the Buddhist miracles associated with the sarira incarnation in the 7th year of the Joseon King Sejo's reign(1461), aiming to reassess their background and the historical significance. Despite the absence of mention in The Annals, the unfolding events and commemorative processes were uncovered through the analysis of materials such as NeungeomgyeongEonhae楞嚴經諺解 epilogues, the Heungcheonsa temple bell inscription, and Yeoraehyeonsang-gi如來現相記 produced in King Sejo's era. The 1461 sarira incarnation, linked to the Gyeongchanbeophoi led by Grand Prince Hyoryeong on May 13th for Hoeamsa temple's reconstruction, extended royal Buddhism's influence, enhancing the royal family's authority. After receiving the incarnated sarira within Gyeongbokgung Inner Palace (Hamwonjeon), King Sejo expanded the significance of the sarira incarnation through official worship until May 18th. Recognizing its political utility, he strategically used Buddhist miracles to elevate his rule, implementing measures like amnesty, NeungeomgyeongEonhae publication, and Heungcheonsa temple's Stupa and bell reconstruction. These commemorations aimed to make royal authority transcendent, rooted in familiar Buddhist faith to the people, portraying King Sejo as a benevolent ruler and “Dharma-King.” Despite Confucian politics, King Sejo bolstered Buddhism's role in state governance. The Buddhist miracle was crucial in his policy to transcendentalize royal authority. The emergence of the sarira incarnation in 1461 signaled the realization of the ideal of a transcendent absolute monarch.