Jikji

Definition

Jikji is the title of the world's oldest extant book printed with movable metal type, created in Korea in 1377. This technological advancement represents a significant leap in printing technology, predating Gutenberg's press by several decades and illustrating Korea's early innovation in the field of publishing and literacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jikji was printed during the Goryeo Dynasty and is a collection of Buddhist teachings, showcasing the importance of religion and education in medieval Korea.
2. The full title of Jikji is 'Jikji Simche Yojeol', which translates to 'The Anthology of Great Buddhist Priests' Zen Teachings'.
3. Jikji's significance lies not only in its age but also in its demonstration of advanced printing techniques that allowed for greater access to literature and learning.
4. The book was printed using a process that involved casting metal types for each character, making it much more efficient than earlier woodblock printing methods.
5. In 2001, Jikji was designated as a Memory of the World by UNESCO, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.

Review Questions

• How did the invention of movable type printing influence the spread of knowledge during the Goryeo Dynasty?
  • The invention of movable type printing significantly influenced the spread of knowledge during the Goryeo Dynasty by making it easier and faster to reproduce texts. Jikji, as the oldest known book printed with this technology, allowed for wider distribution of Buddhist teachings and other literature. This advancement not only facilitated learning among the educated elite but also gradually increased literacy rates among common people, promoting cultural and intellectual growth.
• In what ways does Jikji represent a milestone in the history of printing technologies compared to its contemporaries?
  • Jikji represents a major milestone in printing technologies as it predates Gutenberg's press by several decades, demonstrating Korea's early innovations in movable type. Unlike woodblock printing methods that were time-consuming and less versatile, Jikji's use of metal type allowed for greater efficiency and adaptability in publishing. This technological leap not only enhanced the dissemination of religious texts but also laid the groundwork for future developments in printing both in Asia and globally.
• Evaluate the impact of Jikji on modern perceptions of Korean contributions to global technology and culture.
  • Jikji challenges modern perceptions by highlighting Korea's significant contributions to global technology long before Western advancements became prominent. The recognition of Jikji as a UNESCO Memory of the World illustrates how historical achievements can reshape narratives about cultural heritage. By showcasing an early instance of movable type printing, Jikji serves as evidence that Korea played an influential role in the evolution of publishing technology, prompting a reevaluation of its place in world history and encouraging further exploration into its rich cultural legacies.

Related terms

Movable Type: A printing technology that uses individual letters or characters which can be rearranged to create different texts, allowing for the efficient reproduction of written works.

Gutenberg Press: Invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, this press utilized movable type and is often credited with starting the mass production of books in Europe.

Korean Printing: The traditional methods and advancements in the field of printing developed in Korea, including woodblock printing and later movable metal type, which played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge.