The China History Podcast Ep. 76 | Buddhism and the Silk Road
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Mar 6, 2012 Xuanzang, a renowned monk, journeyed from China to India along the Silk Road, seeking original Buddhist scriptures. His travels not only transformed Buddhism in China but also fostered vital cultural exchanges during the 7th century. The discussion highlights the monk's significant connection with Emperor Tang Taizong and addresses the decline of Buddhism in Central Asia amid the rise of Islam. Xuanzang's legacy continued as his translations shaped Buddhist literature, influencing works like 'Journey to the West' and leaving a profound impact on Chinese spirituality.
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Xuanzang in *Journey to the West*
- Xuanzang, a legendary Buddhist monk, is a key character in the 16th-century literary classic Journey to the West.
- This fictionalized account depicts Xuanzang's 16-year pilgrimage to India.
Sui Emperors and Buddhism
- Sui emperors Wen and Yang supported Buddhism not solely for religious reasons, but to counter Confucian elites.
- This political strategy fostered a golden age for Buddhism in China during the early Tang Dynasty.
Xuanzang's Motivation for Pilgrimage
- Xuanzang felt a strong desire to travel to India, seeking original Buddhist scriptures.
- He aimed to clarify inconsistencies and misinterpretations in existing Chinese translations.