The Concept of Human Are Heaven (In Nae Ch'on) And Ethical Ideology: An Analysis of the Teachings of Donghak and Chondogyo
Keywords:
Ch’ondogyo, Ethics Humans are Heaven, Korean New Religion, TonghakAbstract
This study explores the origins and evolution of the concept of Man is Heaven (in nae ch'on, 人乃天) and the ethical ideology of Donghak and Cheondogyo, a new religious movement that emerged in Korea under the leadership of Ch’oe Che-u in the mid-19th century. The findings indicate that the early conception of Man is Heaven was closely intertwined with philosophical and religious discourses on human nature, particularly the innate potential for self-cultivation, a view shaped by the influence of Buddhism and Neo-Confucianism on the Korean Peninsula. Over time, under the stewardship of Ch'oe Si-hyong and Son Byong-hi, the second-and third-generation leaders, this concept was further refined and adapted as a foundational principle for an ethical ideology aimed at guiding human conduct within society. The study concludes that the doctrinal developments within Donghak and Cheondogyo represent a response to the socio-cultural conditions of the time, marked by the expansion of religion’s role, purpose, and scope. This transformation reflects a unique identity for Donghak and Cheondogyo, positioning them as distinct from the established traditions of major religious systems on the Korean Peninsula.and expanding the meaning of religion which is an important identity of the Donghak and Chondogyo and the new religions in Korea, which are significantly different from the traditions of the main traditional religions on the Korean Peninsula.
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