The Study Of Buddhism In Jingxiang Area In The Six Dynasties

In the period of the Six Dynasties,Jingxiang area was an important stage for the development of Buddhism where a large number of monks gathered.For more than three hundred years,Buddhism had been developing and spreading in the Jingxiang area where formed unique characteristics and left a far-reaching influence.Approximately in the late Eastern Han Dynasty,Buddhism was introduced to Jingxiang for the first time,where it encountered the local culture,developed own culture and catered to local needs,gradually flourished widely in the Six Dynasties.By analyzing and summarizing the recorded activities in the Jingxiang area,we found that the number of monastery experienced two large-scale rises in the early Eastern Jin Dynasty and the Xiaoliang period,and the monastic economy developed accordingly.In the late Southern Dynasty,the number of local monks in the Jingxiang area gradually exceeded exotic monks',and the activities scope also radiated outward,forming a large-scale monk group.Therefore,imperial court controlled their development with the official system.Combining with historical documents,we analyzed Buddhist activities at various social classes in the Jingxiang area.It can be found the emperor worshiped the Buddha,but also controlled the development of Buddhism under his own authority;in the Eastern Jin Dynasty,as the hereditary gentry have more communication with eminent monks,many of them became Buddhist,some of whom devoted more energy to the study of Buddhist teachings and promoted the development of Buddhist vegetarianism in China;The underclass actively participated believing in Buddhism,and applied Buddhist creeds into life to seek spiritual comfort.By researching the historical evolution and regional characteristics of the development of Buddhism in Jingxiang,it can be found the development of Buddhism in Jingxiang was more stable due to the employer's tolerant attitude of the Southern Dynasty and the superiority and tolerance of traditional culture in Jingxiang.Located between the north and south political powers and influenced by both cultures,Buddhism was compatible with the metaphysics of Wei and Jin,laid a foundation for the development of Zen and Tiantai;and contributed to the improvement of later literature and rhythm.The Jingxiang area was located at the border between the north and the south where ethnic separation and contradictions were eased under the influence of Buddhism,and the north and south Buddhism developed in harmony.