Gyōki as a Religious Entrepreneur: An Activist Who Linked Development and Buddhism, the Public and Private Sectors

Abstract

This paper aims to clarify managerial aspects of a Buddhist monk who was successful in recruiting commoners for the construction works in Nara Period (712–784). He is well known for his contribution to the construction of Great Bronze Buddha at Toudaizi Temple in Nara. Gyouki/Gyougi (668–749) was a Buddhist priest, born in Kawati Province, as a descendant of Wang In who came from Paekche. Gyouki’s religious enterprise is characterised by Buddhist activity of merit making with definite purpose, plan, and management for the common people. It was based on altruism of deeds, such as donation of field, money and labour by the community of believers who were willing to offer. His community was engaged in the construction works of roads and bridges, nourishment to the patients, and benevolence to the poor and the suffered. From the management perspectives, Gyouki carried the ball by himself, but organised his projects which were supported by voluntary associations. It was a project based enterprise of men and women, but also assisted by the craftsmen’s groups of Korean descent.