Xuanzang

Definition

Xuanzang was a Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar who is best known for his pilgrimage to India in the 7th century to obtain Buddhist texts. His journey significantly impacted the spread of Buddhism in China and played a crucial role in the development of Chinese Buddhist thought, as well as influencing Chinese art through the integration of Indian motifs and iconography.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Xuanzang traveled over 10,000 miles on foot through treacherous terrain, facing numerous challenges such as bandits, harsh weather, and difficult landscapes during his journey to India.
2. He spent 17 years in India studying under various Buddhist masters and collecting scriptures, eventually returning to China with around 657 texts.
3. Xuanzang's translations contributed to the establishment of the first complete versions of many important Buddhist texts in Chinese, significantly influencing Chinese Buddhism.
4. His experiences were documented in 'The Great Tang Records on the Western Regions,' providing valuable insights into the cultures and practices he encountered.
5. Xuanzang's journey inspired countless artistic representations and influenced styles in Chinese Buddhist art, incorporating elements from Indian artistic traditions.

Review Questions

• How did Xuanzang's pilgrimage to India contribute to the transmission and development of Buddhism in China?
  • Xuanzang's pilgrimage was pivotal for Buddhism in China as he traveled to India to acquire authentic Buddhist texts and teachings. His extensive studies and translations provided a foundation for future generations of Chinese Buddhists. This not only helped solidify Buddhist practices but also integrated Indian philosophical concepts into Chinese thought, shaping the way Buddhism was understood and practiced in China.
• Evaluate the significance of Xuanzang's translations in the context of Chinese Buddhism and its relationship with art during his time.
  • Xuanzang's translations were crucial because they introduced key Buddhist texts that shaped Chinese religious thought and practices. These translations also served as a bridge between Indian and Chinese cultures, influencing artistic expression. The incorporation of Indian motifs and themes into Chinese Buddhist art can be directly traced back to Xuanzang's work, leading to a rich fusion of styles that characterized Chinese religious art during this period.
• Assess the broader cultural implications of Xuanzang's journey on both Chinese society and its artistic expressions.
  • Xuanzang's journey had profound cultural implications for Chinese society, enhancing the understanding of Buddhism and fostering a syncretic cultural exchange between India and China. His writings not only provided insight into foreign lands but also inspired a wave of artistic innovation as artists began to integrate Indian styles into their work. This blend enriched Chinese art, leading to new forms that reflected a deeper engagement with spiritual themes and diverse cultural influences, marking an important moment in the evolution of East Asian art.

Related terms

Silk Road:

A network of trade routes connecting China with the West, which facilitated the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas, including the spread of Buddhism.

Buddhism:

A spiritual tradition founded on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) that emphasizes ethical conduct, meditation, and the attainment of enlightenment.

Tripitaka: The traditional term for the Buddhist scriptures, which Xuanzang sought to translate and disseminate in China after his return from India.