Since the first century when Buddhism entered China, the foreign religion has influenced and been influenced in turn by traditional Chinese culture, and eventually become an important part of it. That is one of the great historical themes not only for China but also for East Asia. This book explores the elements of Buddhism, including its classics, doctrines, system and rituals, to reveal the basic connotation of Buddhism as a cultural entity. Regarding the development of Buddhism in China, it traces the spread in chronological order, from the introduction in Han Dynasties (202 B.C.-220 A.D.), to the prosperity in the Sixteen Kingdoms (circa. 304-circa. 439 A.D.), and then to the decline since the Five Dynasties (907-circa. 960 A.D.). It is noteworthy that the Buddhist schools in the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420-589 A.D.), and the Buddhist sects in Sui and Tang Dynasties (581-907 A.D.), contribute to the sinicization of Buddhism. This book also deals with the interesting question of the similarities and differences between Chinese Buddhism and Indian Buddhism, to examine the specific characters of the former in terms of thought and culture. In the last chapter, the external influence of Chinese Buddhism in East Asia is studied.

Scholars and students in Buddhism and Chinese culture studies, especially those in Buddhist countries, will benefit from the book. Also, it will appeal to readers interested in religion, Chinese culture and ancient Chinese history.