Buddhism Case

Society's acceptance of ideas is dependent on how well these ideas fit their economic, social and political needs. In China during the period from the first century CE through the ninth century CE, the degree of acceptance of Buddhism varied along with changes in economic, social and political structures and needs. A person's position within each of these factors also played a role.

The principles of Buddhism were able to spread in China because they offered order and structure to a collapsed Chinese society. The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism provided people with a way to change their focus from the problems in the physical world they lived in to enhancing their spirituality and intellect (Document 1). Although Buddhism was founded in India in the sixth century BCE, it was not until the first century CE that it came to China. At this time the Chinese Imperial structure was intact, so there was no impetus for Buddhism to spread. It was not until the Han dynasty collapsed in 220 CE, and China began a period of instability and disunity, that Buddhist influence exploded in China (Documents 2 and 3).

The scholar class understood the value of Buddhism in the lives of Chinese citizens while the country lacked a formal government and was in disarray. (Document 2). Scholars assured the Chinese that Buddhism was compatible with the Confucian Classics, and that they were not betraying Confucian beliefs by practicing Buddhism (Document 3).

However, after traditional society was restored in 570 CE the appeal of Buddhism remained mostly with the scholars. Common people, such as servants, strived to return to the roots of Chinese society. As Document 4 states "... Buddhism is no more than a cult of the barbarian peoples spread to China. It did not exist here in ancient times". Also, Buddhism did not seem to value the traditional family and community ties so important to the common people (Document 4). At the other end of society the Emperors, now returned to power, did not want a religion competing with Imperial authority. As Imperial power regained strength, Tang Emperor Wu saw the growing numerous Buddhist temples, and increasing number of monks, nuns and followers (Document 6). The need to temper or eradicate Buddhism was presented to the people as necessary in order to keep the economy strong, keep people fed, preserve the family and maintain law (Document 6).

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