Examining the Successful Dissemination Buddhism along the SilkRoad into China Against the Political Backdrop ofthe Southern and Northern Dynasties

Abstract

Nowadays, it is easy to take for granted the connection between Buddhism and Chinese culture. However, Buddhism was originally from India, and passed into China as a foreign religion. One particular period that Buddhism began to blend which Chinese culture appeared to be the Southern and Northern dynasties. The active nomadic activities during this period introduced both the possibility and need of Buddhism as a part of Chinese society. After this period, Buddhism truly gained momentum in Chinese history. This paper will examine Buddhisms unique means of propagation, specifically how Buddhism managed to wield both interpretive and political power as important tools. Such observations could yield insight into the dynamics of political interactions in ancient China, as well as how such a structure incorporated religions and common culture into its reign. The paper hypothesizes that Buddhisms ability to build connection with Chinese society was due to its unique power of flexibility and persuasion, which suited the political backdrop of the Southern and Northern dynasties well. This paper will discuss and seek to validate this thesis through three lenses: royal support, governance, and translation. The discussion will involve interpreting scrolls written by the ancient Chinese, to signify the contemporary political and intellectual importance of Buddhism.