Encounter Between Indian and Chinese Civilizations
The unveiling of the Top Ten Best Books of 2023 by the renowned Zhonghua Publishing House marked a significant recognition for scholarly works.
Among the selected titles was “Encounter Between Indian and Chinese Civilizations: Ximing Monastery of Tang Chang’an and the Silk Roads (Research) (Complete in Two Volumes)” by Professor Zhan Ru from Peking University.
This comprehensive exploration delves into the significance of Ximing Monastery in Chang’an during the Tang dynasty, emphasizing its pivotal role in Chang’an Buddhism and its broader implications for Chinese Buddhism.
The book meticulously traces the monastery’s impact along the overland and maritime Silk Roads, illuminating the seamless fusion of sacred and secular elements, the interplay between politics and religion, and the dynamic interaction between East and West.
Through its rich examination of historical and cultural facets, Zhan Ru offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between imperial authority, religious authority, and the transmission of Buddhist thought across diverse territories during the medieval period.
