| Brief Description: | This book shows the relationship between San-shin and Korean Buddhism that has traditionally been one of mutual support and mutual absorption. In a theoretical sense their relationship takes this three-sided form: Buddha in his role as cosmic Lord enfeoffs San-shin with its own mountain, and thus augments the powers and legitimacy San-shin already enjoys.
San-shin is not yet very well-known in the world, despite being the most central and characteristic figure in traditional Korean culture. It remains uniquely Korean, although depicted with imported Chinese artistic motifs, which are clearly explained in this volume. Its various cultural roles and manifestations are described, with photos has taken of San-shin icons and their shrines all over South Korea, pointing out their various common and unique religious and artistic characteristics. The various connections and relationships of San-shin with the five major religious, philosophical traditions of Korean-Buddhism, Shamanism, Daoism, Confucianism, and Christianity are fully explored.
The other deities and symbols which share paintings and shrines with San-shin are briefly introduced, to shed further light on its identity. Contrary cases of contemporary opposition to San-shin and the potential roles of mountain-worship in 21-century Korean culture (national identity, ecology, re-unification) are discussed to provide deeper perspectives. This book is the most comprehensive study ever published on Korea's ancient mountain-worship traditions in any language. The author hopes that it will introduce San-shin to a global audience. Written by David A. Mason. |
