“Warding Off Woes: Epidemic Talismans in Chosŏn Buddhism"

Buddhist temples served as hubs for printing in the Chosŏn era, producing a diverse array of Buddhist woodblocks and prints. Despite their prevalence and abundance, printed talismans have often been overlooked by Buddhist historians, dismissed as artifacts of commoner’s interest in worldly benefits and superstitious beliefs. However, a closer examination reveals that talismans transcend the surface appearance of illegible inscriptions on paper strips; instead, they emerge as miniaturized cosmic conduits channeling sacred knowledge for healing and offer a lens into everyday Chosŏn life. This talk, informed by William McNeil’s insights into the interplay between epidemics and religion, focuses on talismans employed as protective measures against epidemics. By integrating Buddhist doctrines, medical concepts, visual analyses, and firsthand accounts from Western visitors to Chosŏn, it offers a comprehensive exploration of the Buddhist epidemic talismans. The presentation ultimately aims to illustrate the multiple layers of social connections and coping mechanisms, forged and fostered by the rich talismanic culture and ritual healing in Chosŏn.