Introduction
Chinese Buddhism comprises structures of demeanor, reverence, and conviction that guide the values and morals of the Buddhist community. Buddhism’s existence in Asian countries can be traced to around 563 BC when Siddhartha Gotama examined individuals’ happiness and disregarded opulence and affluence as reasons for joy. After approximately six years, Gotama deliberated and learned about the one who informed him about the source of happiness, Buddha. Consequently, most Asians and Indians subscribed and believed in Buddhism teachings, with the principle of truthfulness being the critical pillar of the religion. Therefore, the paper will explore Buddhism religion in China and critique the book entitled “Buddhism in China: A Historical Survey,” authored by Kenneth Chen. Hence, the paper asserts that Buddhism religion can set individuals free from suffering, provide long-lasting happiness, and guide their social and political life after observing its fundamental tenets like karma, nirvana, the four noble truths, dharma, and bodhisattvas.
Summary of content
Chen (1964) begins with a description of the Han dynasty and the development of other dynasties that enhanced the Buddhism religion. For instance, the eminent monks from Eastern Chin dynasties favored the establishment of Buddhism even though there was massive persecution of the ones who wished to subscribe to the religion. Additionally, the book discusses the opposition experienced in the northern dynasties and the progress that followed after massive facilitation by the monks. The book then outlines conditions that facilitated an increase in acceptance of Buddhism, such as the barbarian acceptance that occurred in the northern dynasties of Sui and Chou. An exciting aspect of the book is the disastrous persecution that encompassed Wu Tsung, which is discussed at the apogee of the Tang dynasty.
The book also discusses the monastic order that was key to the maturity of Buddhism in China. For example, monasticism would enable the coenobitic movement of Buddhism and enlighten the believers to conduct a disciplined lifestyle. Chen (1964) also highlights the relevance of Buddhist temples and schools in enhancing the spread of this religion across Chinese cultures. The regulations are also stipulated in the book to be essential in guiding all Buddhists. One religious canon is the Tripitaka, which outlines all Buddhist teachings of Buddha that are essential for the disciples. The decline of dynasties is discussed in the book to have significant impacts on the progressive development of Buddhism in ancient times. However, Chen (1964) discusses that implementing various reforms changed people’s perception of Buddhism, hence leading to its vital contributions to Chinese culture.
Analysis and evaluation of the book
The author’s main argument is on Buddhism, factors facilitating its growth, challenges in its acceptance, decline, and renaissance to become a dominant religion in China after implementing various reforms. The author supports his argument by providing accounts of dynasties that enhanced its spread. Additionally, the author discusses the roles of the monastic order in Buddhism that facilitated the establishment of the religion. In addition, the description of Buddhist temples and schools’ roles is vital in understanding this religion’s dominance. The author concludes that the great traditions and dynasties were imperative in the progressive establishment of Buddhism; hence the religion has a vital role in Chinese culture.
The author assumes some aspects of studying Buddhism in China. First, Chen (1964) assumes that ancient dynasties played essential roles in enhancing the growth and development of Buddhism. Secondly, the author assumes that the monks assisted the ancient Chinese in comprehending the Buddhist requirements and canons. One of the author’s preconceptions is that after compiling the works from other writers, students will understand the central concepts of Buddhism. Secondly, the author challenges the notion of a decline in Buddhism. In this case, the author explains that after some reforms were incorporated into the system, it became easy for a renaissance of Buddhism. Additionally, the author positions himself in the previous studies by compiling essential information from scriptwriters on dynasties and their roles in enhancing the spread of Buddhism. It is vital to note that having a comprehensive list of studies assists the author in positioning himself to ensure that scholars are exposed to comprehensive information on Buddhism.
The author’s argument on the roles of Buddhism in contemporary society is true especially its role in establishing a common culture among the people. First, the Chinese culture has embraced Buddhism since it is the primary religion. Secondly, the author argues that the spread of Buddhism was facilitated by dynasties since monks from such dynasties would assist the believers in understanding the canons. Therefore, the author addresses the critical role played by Buddhism in the Chinese’s culture. Such a critical analysis of all aspects in a balanced manner has enhanced the understanding of Buddhism. The above critic reconstructs and reinforces the author’s argument about the essential benefits of Buddhism to Chinese culture.
Conclusion
Buddhism’s rapid spread and dominance are due to its support from the dynasties and monks. Some essential aspects of Buddhism include the monastic order, Tripitaka, four canons of truth, and karma. Some of the practices and aspects of Buddhism are widely recognized even today, like the aspect of karma. Therefore, the book is worth reading and should be used for research since scholars will significantly understand Buddhism and its relevance to Chinese culture.
Reference
Chen, K.K.S. (1964). Buddhism in China: A Historical Survey (Vol. 1). Princeton University Press.
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