The influence of Vairocana in Chinese Buddhist history
The presence of Vairocana, or Mahavairocana, along the Chinese Buddhist Silk Road is a testament to the enduring influence and significance of this Esoteric Sun Buddha in Chinese Buddhist history.
From Luoyang to Xi’an, travelers encounter multiple representations of Vairocana at various significant sites, including the White Horse Temple’s Qingliang Terrace, Daxingshan Temple, Daci’en Temple, and Famen Temple.
While esoteric Buddhism may not hold the same prominence it once did in China, state support ensures the celebration and preservation of Vairocana’s legacy, particularly at Daxingshan Temple, which has been designated as the heart of esoteric heritage in China.
The most striking depiction of Vairocana is found at Fengxian Temple within the Longmen Grottoes, built during the reign of Wu Zetian.
This imperial cave not only showcases exceptional Buddhist rock-cut art but is also speculated to depict Wu Zetian herself, symbolizing her power and Buddhist affiliation.
Despite centuries of damage, the awe-inspiring presence of the Vairocana image and other sculptures in the Longmen Grottoes continues to captivate visitors.
Moreover, Wu Zetian’s legacy, though once erased from historical records, is now celebrated throughout Luoyang and Xi’an, further emphasizing the enduring cultural significance of these sites along the Chinese Buddhist Silk Road.
With around 1,400 caves and over 100,000 statues, the Longmen Grottoes stand as a critical point of the Silk Road, anchoring Buddhist power since ancient times.
