Buddhist Persecutions

Definition

Buddhist persecutions refer to instances of oppression, violence, and discrimination faced by practitioners of Buddhism throughout history, particularly during its introduction and growth in regions like China. These persecutions often stemmed from political, social, and religious conflicts as Buddhism encountered established belief systems, leading to significant struggles for acceptance and survival.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the early centuries of Buddhism's introduction to China, it faced significant resistance from Confucian and Daoist authorities who viewed it as a threat to traditional values.
2. The most notable period of persecution occurred during the Tang Dynasty in the 9th century when Emperor Wuzong issued edicts to suppress Buddhism, resulting in the destruction of temples and monasteries.
3. Buddhism was often associated with foreign influence, which led to backlash from nationalist sentiments among some Chinese factions during various historical periods.
4. Despite persecution, Buddhism managed to adapt and transform its practices in response to challenges, which contributed to its resilience in China over time.
5. These persecutions not only shaped the landscape of religious practice in China but also influenced how Buddhism was integrated with local cultures and belief systems.

Review Questions

• How did Confucianism and Daoism influence the perceptions of Buddhism during its early introduction in China?
  • Confucianism and Daoism played a significant role in shaping societal values and norms in China. Confucianism emphasized loyalty to family and social hierarchy, while Daoism focused on harmony with nature. Both systems viewed Buddhism as a foreign ideology that disrupted traditional social order. This led to resistance against Buddhist practices and contributed to several instances of persecution as Buddhist monks sought to establish their communities in a landscape dominated by these established beliefs.
• Discuss the impact of Emperor Wuzong's policies on Buddhist practices during the Tang Dynasty.
  • Emperor Wuzong's policies during the Tang Dynasty had a profound impact on Buddhist practices. His edicts aimed at suppressing Buddhism led to widespread destruction of temples and monasteries, significantly weakening the institutional presence of Buddhism in China. This persecution not only reduced the number of monks and practitioners but also forced many remaining Buddhists to adapt their teachings and practices to survive under oppressive conditions. This period marked a pivotal moment that reshaped how Buddhism interacted with Chinese culture and other religions.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Buddhist persecutions on the development of Buddhism in China.
  • The long-term effects of Buddhist persecutions significantly influenced the development of Buddhism in China by forcing it to adapt to local contexts and integrate with indigenous belief systems like Confucianism and Daoism. These challenges led to a unique form of Chinese Buddhism that incorporated elements from these traditions while retaining core Buddhist principles. Additionally, the resilience shown during periods of persecution helped to solidify Buddhism's place within Chinese society, ultimately leading to a rich tapestry of spiritual practices that emerged as a result of navigating these hardships.

Related terms

Daoism: An indigenous Chinese religion and philosophical system that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao, or the natural way of the universe.

Confucianism: A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, focusing on morality, social relationships, and justice within a hierarchical structure.

Zoroastrianism: One of the world's oldest monotheistic religions that originated in ancient Persia, emphasizing the battle between good and evil and the importance of individual choice.