Buddhism in China

How an Indian monk contributed to the understanding of Buddhism in China

The article first appeared in Scroll.in on Nov 23, 2024.

Long before the modern concepts of nation-states, borders, and identification systems existed, the oasis town of Dunhuang, nestled in the Gobi Desert of northwest China, served as a vibrant crossroads for diverse cultures. This melting pot of Chinese, Indian, Greek, and Persian traditions was a hub for traders, scholars, monks, and missionaries. Among those who made their mark on this cultural and religious convergence was an Indian Buddhist monk named Dharmakṣema.

The story of Dharmakṣema’s travels and contributions is preserved largely through the work of scholars such as Jinhua Chen, a professor of East Asian Religions at the University of British Columbia. In his 2004 paper, The Indian Buddhist Missionary Dharmakṣema (385-433): A New Dating of His Arrival in Guzang and of His Translations, Chen translated Dharmakṣema’s biography, originally written by the Chinese monk Daolang.

During the 5th century CE, Dunhuang was emerging as a key centre for Buddhist education. Its geographical position made it a vital point of interaction between India and China. Eminent monks like Dharmarakṣa, Kumarajiva, and Dharmakṣema worked in this region, translating Buddhist scriptures and spreading teachings. Dharmakṣema’s most notable achievement was translating the Mahaparinirvana Sutra, a foundational text that profoundly influenced the development of Chinese Buddhism.

Dharmakṣema’s arrival coincided with the flourishing of Buddhist culture in Dunhuang, particularly in the Mogao Caves, renowned for their stunning sculptures and paintings. These visual representations of Buddhist teachings were essential for ordinary people, many of whom were illiterate, to grasp the religion’s principles. The artwork conveyed complex doctrines in a simple and accessible way, making the caves a cornerstone of Buddhist education in the region.

Though celebrated for his religious contributions, Dharmakṣema’s life was also surrounded by mystique. Historical accounts, such as those in the Wei Shu (Official History of the Northern and Eastern Wei, 385-550), portray him as a charismatic figure with alleged abilities to perform magical feats, including manipulating spirits and enhancing fertility. While these tales added an aura of mystery to his persona, they also reflected the blending of cultural and spiritual practices.

Dharmakṣema was not just a monk but a cultural ambassador, fostering connections between India and China. His legacy endures in Dunhuang, a city synonymous with the historical diffusion of Buddhism. Sixteen centuries later, his contributions remain a testament to the deep and enduring ties between two great ancient civilizations.

Read more: Scroll.in

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