佛敎身體修行觀의 初期的 性格에 관한 一考 -解剖學的 身體觀을 中心으로- = A research on early character of the physical asceticism in Bud dhism

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

For physical asceticism in ancient India, it is well described in Upanisad. Based on the scripture, the objective of ancient ascetic is to realize unity between Brahman(the universal truth) and Atman(its respective realization); in other words, the realization of unity between universe and myself. This realization is often referred to as Moksa, complete freedom. Therefore, attaining the level of unity with Brahman enables one to have no more reincarnation. This overall process is penance, which is often called as yoga.
Buddhism inherited the tradition of ancient India but was never the same. Its stance was progressive in that it denies penance and the existence of everlasting Atman and Brahman, holds on to the principle of ‘there is an absence of ego’ and ‘everything is transience,’ and puts more emphasis on choosing the asceticism with moderate stance. Therefore, in comparison with penance yoga before Buddhism was established, the physical asceticism of Buddhism is summarized as yoga with moderate-stance that stands on the basis of complete absence of ego. Its asceticism methodology consists mainly of impure body and breathing practice. The view of impure body can be described in anatomical perspective. For those ascetic with strong greed, it is good to have an appropriate view in the beginning of practice. This anatomical physical practice is a good example. This physical practice view had existed before Buddhism was established, and therefore has a long historic origin. Besides, its importance was well known as the principle of asceticism in Mahayana Buddhism.
Mahayana Buddhism in China classified physical asceticism into 5 types. Amongst them, the view of anatomically impure body does not foster penance and is somewhat intimidated in a Confucian society. However, after combining with the principle of Yin-Yang & Five Elements in the prime during Dang Dynasty in 8th century, it developed into the view of the five viscera, which is one of principles of Esoteric Buddhism.