Abstract

The role of Jeungsan in Korea’s modern religious landscape is undeniably significant. As such, unexplored claims or those that present divergent perspectives in existing Jeungsan research could potentially lead to substantial shifts in understanding modern Korea’s broader religious panorama. Given this, a meticulous analysis of the foundational documents related to Jeungsan research becomes crucial. Despite the lack of exhaustive historical evidence or analysis, numerous scholars suggest that The Compilation of Sojourn- in-Stillness in the Lingbao (靈寶局定靜篇), penned by late 19th-century Daoist master Lee Ok-Po, had a substantial influence on Jeungsan. This claim first surfaced around the year 2000 and has since garnered increasing attention. Upon an in-depth examination of the subject, this study critically evaluated the claim, concluding that the assertion regarding The Compilation of Sojourn-in-Stillness in the Lingbao as a transmission of secret tradition cherished by Jeungsan, lacks robust evidence. It was discovered that some researchers have erroneously treated this transmission as a confirmed historical fact. Moreover, an analysis suggests that this misunderstanding may stem from the fact that, although not written by Sotaesan or Song Kyu, this document had a significant impact on the Research Society of Buddhism, specifically Won Buddhism. According to these results, The Compilation of Sojourn- in-Stillness in the Lingbao alone does not contain the necessary content to serve as a fundamental resource for studying Daesoon faith or thought within the field of Daesoon Studies. However, this document may be a valuable reference in the exploration of differences between Daesoon Jinrihoe and other Jeungsan traditions, and the examination of its relationship with Won Buddhism. It is hoped that through a more targeted understanding and comprehensive analysis of The Compilation of Sojourn-in-Stillness in the Lingbao, future research can highlight the differences rather than the similarities with Jeungsan’s teachings.