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- P-ISSN 2671-8197
- E-ISSN 2733-936X
- KOREAN
- P-ISSN2671-8197
- E-ISSN2733-936X
- KCI
Article Detail
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The Status and Characteristics of Bhikkhunis Recorded in Buddhist Texts of the Joseon Dynasty
Korean Studies Quarterly / Korean Studies Quarterly, (P)2671-8197; (E)2733-936X
2025, v.48 no.4, pp.405-444
Tak,
h.
(2025). The Status and Characteristics of Bhikkhunis Recorded in Buddhist Texts of the Joseon Dynasty. , 48(4), 405-444.
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Abstract
This study examines the activities and social status of Buddhist nuns in the Joseon Dynasty through an analysis of nun lists recorded in Buddhist scriptures. The analysis focuses on five aspects: the period and region of scripture publication, motivations for participation, scope of activities, and religious significance. The findings reveal that the participation of nuns in scripture publication was concentrated from the late 18th to the 19th century, indicating that despite the decline of the sangha population and economic difficulties of temples, female monastics emerged as key agents in religious projects and devotional practices. Geographically, the activities of these nuns were concentrated in the four Seungbangs on the outskirts of Hanyang (present-day Seoul) and around Mount Geumgang, reflecting the institutional base of the capital and the mountain’s role as a center for Buddhist practice. Nuns primarily engaged in scripture publication to honor their parents’ spirits and practice filial piety, combining Confucian filial ideals with Buddhist bodhisattva practices. Some also participated as major sponsors in large-scale religious projects beyond their regions, forming extensive networks. These activities demonstrate that the bhikṣuṇī community in late Joseon played an important role in the dissemination and social integration of Buddhist faith.
- keywords
- 조선, 불서, 비구니, 여승, 사승방, Joseon, Buddhist text, Bhikkhuni, Buddhist nun, four Seungbangs
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